A writer's heart is filled with love for the written word; and that love is exactly what makes most of us stick it out, hovering over the keyboard long after our eyes have glazed over from lack of sleep, our strained faces evidence of another sleepless night spent writing and rewriting text, our bodies and minds fatigued from daily stress, difficult characters, and perhaps just a dash of writer's block.
At times our hearts may be bruised by rejection, our voices hoarse from calling out in search of the muses, and sending up countless prayers that one day our writing will be read and admired by our fellow readers.
"When did you know you wanted to be a writer?" I get asked this question a lot, and even though it may sound silly, the truth of the matter is this desire of becoming a writer is one of my earliest memories. I wanted to be a writer before I even knew how to read.
Blessed with a wonderful mother, she would always take me to the public library to enjoy story hour, and wander the countless colorful shelves in the children's department collecting books she would read to me. She made our frequent trips to the library a great adventure, and made me look forward to these trips and to reading.
I strongly believe in order to instill a passion for the written word and the art of writing, we must teach our children that reading is an adventure! Teach them that books are adventures, and that just by opening the cover it can transport you to another time, another place, introduce you to interesting characters, as well as providing hours of entertainment and enjoyment.
Sadly, at times a writer's heart can be filled with self-doubt, and sometimes depression can seep in. The world may try to tell you to "go out and get a real job" or better yet: "Why can't you settle down in a 'normal'position in a good company and be happy? Why do you feel this burning desire, this never ceasing need to write?" Or they may say, "Isn't writing just a hobby?"
Let me tell you, writing is a real job, a job that takes passion, discipline, preserverance, talent, thick skin to handle rejection, and a little luck. Don't let anyone tell you writing is not a "real job" and never let anyone stop you from pursuing your dreams of becoming a writer. You can do it!
Don't settle for less. If you feel in your heart that you're a writer, and feel that burning desire to put words down on paper, follow your dreams. Hone your craft, and read, read, read!
Remember, every poem, short story, article, song, novel, and screenplay began with someone listening to their "writer's heart," responding by putting the first word to paper and seeing it through to completion.
Don't allow a hectic daily schedule, housework, or any of the world's negative comments distract you from your dreams.
Always remember to follow your writer's heart, because only by following your heart, can you find true happiness and contentment. Your heart will never led you astray...
Until next month!
Happy Writing!
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