To Write Requires A Willingness to Learn

I have met a lot of writers in my life. Some may have a book or more published, some write for the church bulletin, some write as a release, and others write to make money. The last one makes me laugh because unless you are in the ever so small window of 4% - 5% of authors, this is not a money-making industry for the writer. Regardless of why you write, if you are going to be the best writer, author, and spokesperson for God you can be, YOU MUST BE WILLING TO LEARN.


The books you download and purchase have probably been revised ten, twenty, or even a hundred times before it developed into the book you are now reading. Some writers do not make it to the "author" stage because the learning curve and process in the writing industry can be harsh. Even the best comments, critiques, and suggestions given in love have potential to ruffle feathers.


Think about it. An author's masterpiece is similar to a mother and her child. Ouch! Yeah, now you get it. If we are not careful, a writer can become mother bear protecting her cub even when the cub needs a complete overhaul. My challenge and encouragement to my fellow writers and to each of you stepping out to use the gifts God has given you is this - trust God and the people he places in your life to lead, guide, and critique your skill in order to be the best you can be. 

We are not writing, creating, and sharing for ourselves (or we shouldn't be). It is all about the God who created us and the way He has gifted us. I choose to receive the critiques and suggestions as opportunities to learn. Most of the time I make the changes but sometimes I hold firm to the direction I have taken. If I choose to remain and not make the change, I have my reasons and will explain these. After discussion, sometimes I make the suggested change and others, the editor/critic/friends says, "Oh, I hadn't thought of it that way." and we tweak it together to better reflect my intentions. 

For the next couple days I will be "learning" as I complete the revisions on Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey so I can return it to the lovely Alyssa before I go back to school on Tuesday morning. 

How is God teaching you to better utilize the gifts He has given you? Is there an area in your life you have a passion to do? Are you open to suggestions in order to make the product better? Will you share your moment of "Aha" after receiving the feedback?


Enjoy your day!
Lisa :)