Why Do I Write?
It appears as if I have a pattern when it comes to writing. I seem to go through two phases. I'm either overflowing with ideas and the energy to match to write about them, or I have the ideas and lack the motivation to pen them.
When I began writing this post, I didn't have a defined direction. I hadn't decided which way I wanted the narrative to go. In all honesty, it is rare for me to outline my blog posts, and after three recent interactions, I believe that is a good thing. I'm not 100 percent sure if I've ever used the word epiphany, but right now—1:13 am to be exact—I think I experienced one.
On more than one occasion, someone has referred to my writing style as a gift. I realize we all have gifts or natural abilities, but sometimes I have trouble accepting the idea that writing is mine. It could be because I know I am a work in progress. I’d also like to think these thoughts and feelings are a demonstration of humility, but I know it has more to do with self-doubt. So when I heard it again yesterday, I began to think it would be wise for me to stop denying or questioning it—I remember what happened to Jonah.
The Devil is a Liar
"The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy..."
John 10:10 KJV
I realize some of you reading this post may not believe the devil exists. I'm not going to focus specifically on him right now, but I am going to bring some of his tactics—or hindrances—that keep us from recognizing our potential to the forefront of our minds in an effort to stop us from falling for them.
Throughout my life, I’ve battled thoughts of inadequacy and uncertainty. Unfortunately, I’ve also succumbed to comparing myself to others for varying reasons. But the fact of the matter is I am good enough, which means there is no reason for me to doubt. Furthermore, we are unique and possess individual strengths—and weaknesses. I am the only one who can do what I can do because I am the only me.
The negative thoughts come to kill our hopes and keep us from fulfilling our ultimate purpose. Those negative thoughts are lies. Don’t fall for them.
It is a Gift
About a week ago, I was working on a project at work with eight other people, but we worked in pairs. One of the requirements of the project involved crafting narratives. My partner sent me what she wrote and after reviewing it, I rewrote it. When she read what I crafted, she expressed how much she liked it and she shared that she thinks she uses too many words. I did my best to encourage her not to compare my style of writing to hers. I told her that I have experience writing for our organization, so I am familiar with how the powers that be like messages to read. But she countered my statement by saying, “It’s a gift.”
When I take the time to think about it, I enjoyed writing when I was a child. My mother still has stories I wrote when I was in elementary school. I still get enjoyment from writing as an adult. The manner in which I am inspired is a huge indicator that writing is one of my gifts. And as corny as it may sound to some, I honestly want to encourage and inspire people through the words that I write, which can be classified as the other definition of what a gift is.
Stir Up the Gift
"Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."
2 Timothy 1:6-7 KJV
Now that I’ve decided to stop denying my gift, it is time for me to “stir it up” or put it into action. In order to do this effectively, I must resist the fear. Mainly because it comes from a bad source. Believing I can’t do this or that I don’t possess the ability to write is a lie. Giving in to anything that is not a positive addition to my life isn’t fruitful or wise.
So—why do I write? I write because it is my gift that I am driven to share with everyone who chooses to receive it. What is your why?…T.V.
