I've Only Begun by Tandy Balson

Looking back on my life, I realize my apprenticeship started long before I was aware of it.  There were many signs I failed to recognize on my journey to be a writer. So many prompts were ignored.  Nevertheless, they combined to form the essence of who I am and how I express myself.

When I felt called to write I started to carry a journal everywhere I went.  Inspiration could strike at any time and I wanted to be able to capture the thoughts before they escaped. I later learned that I’m not alone in this practice.

Before long I joined a local writers group for support.  They only had positive things to say and my confidence level increased.  It was more than a year later I found out they didn’t give critiques unless they were specifically asked for! Perhaps the encouragement was what this beginner needed to build confidence.

The first negative feedback I received took me by surprise.  If I was following God’s will for my life, shouldn’t everyone love what I was writing?  I had no idea how naïve that mindset was. It was a rude awakening but necessary for me to realize how much I had to learn.  

Conferences, workshops and honest feedback from writers and editors set me on the right path.  One editor saw potential in my writing and offered to mentor me. The direct tutelage of a professional was integral to me becoming published. 

I understand that I am still in the early stages of my formal apprenticeship. The more I learn, the more I am aware how much more there is to learn.

God has given me the desire to write.  As my master instructor, he has led me to InScribe and the fellowship of others called to share his inspired words.  What better apprenticeship could anyone ask for?