This is more than JUST Writing

Writing for fun or the classroom is totally different than for the publishing world and it is so worth it.


My Gram and great-grandmother were avid writers in their daily journals. Journals not buried in the back of a filing cabinet but instead have been donated to local town historical societies. Both women kept track of who visited, current events, and the not so important but fun things to know about their lives and town happenings. 


Then there is writing in the classroom. The more I write for publication, receive critiques, and read books to improve my writing I am overwhelmed. There is so much to learn. If you are just venturing into the "writing for publication" world, do not give up! Keep studying, writing, and rewriting. 


If God has placed a story on your heart then you need to be obedient and write it just make sure you do your homework and learn the ins and outs before submitting it. There are days I feel as if "All I learned in high school and college English need to be reevaluated." 


Reevaluation, study, critiques, and writers' conferences and workshops will help to alleviate the stress while increasing your writer's muscles and knowledge.

Another aspect of writing for publication has nothing to do with writing! Yes, you read that correctly. I want to stress the importance of attending a writers' conference and join a writers' group. Both provide valuable information and guidance as you pursue your writing career. There is one more person you need to keep in touch with too, God.


Writing is not only about writing. Publishers and your readers want to know you are someone worth "knowing". It is recommended you "meet" your readers through social media, blogs, and speaking.


In the beginning this was a struggle. My friend Karen told me many times, "Lisa, you should write a blog." but I had no clue what a blog was then I went to a writers' conference and learned a blog is necessary if you are seeking publication. I came home from the conference, invoked the help of my teen daughter, and started this blog. To Karen, you were right and thanks for the push.


The next addition was to set up a Facebook page designated specifically for my writing. If you want to be "friends" on FB, send me, Lisa M. Buske, a message.


Another aspect is Twitter. I went kicking and screaming but I now "tweet" and I don't even have wings. If you are a Twitter fan, @LisaBuske is my handle. This is modern CB talk for the way you can find me on Twitter.


With all this "promote me" stuff it is easy to lose focus if you don't have friends, family, and a writers' group watching your back to make sure you don't get pulled into all the "promoting" and lose sight of your goal, to write for God and change lives.


Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3:23-24 


Of course I am not saying to have a Facebook, Twitter, or Blog is bad ~ I have all three. I only share this as an encouragement. If we are writing for Him, writing the story He inspired within us, and keep our eyes focused on God (not ourselves, man, or fame) then we all is good BUT it is vital to keep our priorities in check.


One of my favorite aspects of blogging, connecting on FB and having my email public are the comments, prayers, and encouragement I receive EVERY day from all of you. 


With God as our PR, success is in our future. Success is defined differently for some. To me, success is touching hearts and sharing how God's love and faithfulness have changed who I am and made it possible to live with joy. 


Thank you for reading, responding, praying, and taking time out of your schedule for this blog. May you know God's love is big enough for all of us.


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