The Writing Life
“Writers are troublemakers.” — Meg Gardiner, author, CreativeMornings (Austin)
Good writers employ solid plot structures and interesting characters. Better writers tweak the models. That is, they get into trouble. They twist fate, upset the predictable plot line, use present tense instead of the standard past, or create empathy for the most dastardly of villains.
[Read more…] about How to Be a Better Writer: Get into Trouble
When your best isn’t good enough, several emotions and thoughts drift into the mind. The logical thought says you did your best. It should provide a sense of comfort and wellbeing. You did your best, and that’s what counts, even if your best didn’t deliver the contract, award, or other objective. [Read more…] about When Your Best isn’t Good Enough
“The center must hold in order for the surface tension to break.” — Makoto Fujimura, “Come and See: Leonardo da Vinci’s Philip in The Last Supper,” Refractions: A Journey of Faith, Art, and Culture
I’ve talked about how writing is like baking previously. The analogy suffices. A writer adds ingredients to create something worth consuming.
[Read more…] about How to Be a Better Writer: Pair Quality Ingredients
In the same way I was with Moses, I’ll be with you. I won’t give up on you; I won’t leave you. Strength! Courage! You are going to lead this people to inherit the land that I promised to give their ancestors. Give it everything you have, heart and soul. […] Haven’t I commanded you? Strength! Courage! Don’t be timid; don’t be discouraged. God, your God, is with you every step you take. — from Joshua 1:1-9, The Message
“I have decided to make a covenant with the God of Israel and turn history around so that God will no longer be angry with us. Children, don’t drag your feet in this! God has chosen you to take your place before him to serve in conducting and leading worship — this is your life work; make sure you do it and do it well.” — 2 Chronicles 29:10-1, The Message, King Hezekiah speaking to the priests and Levites