Finding Community by Lorilee Guenter

 

Once upon a time, not so long ago, a writer tried to hone her craft alone in a room. Writing is a solitary activity. She read books on the craft, in addition to the numerous books she read over the years for enjoyment. She never expected to desire to write and the writing sat in piles and binders, some edited, some not. It had no where to go beyond her writing closet.

With encouragement from her family, she started a blog and wrote on it from time to time. A few people found it and read her words. Now there was a reason to continue to hone her skills. She plodded on without consistency. Those who knew her continued to encourage her and she continued to dabble with the written word. Sometimes, solitary activity is a struggle, even when you know there is a purpose, a reason, to continue.

Consider Elijah. At one point he became discouraged because he thought he was the only one who had not worshipped idols. He still trusted God, but he was tired and lonely. God showed him that there were others and not only a few other but 7000. Although God is enough, He made us to need others also. (1 Kings 19).

The writer in the above story never considered she was alone in the same way Elijah did. She knew there were and are many writers who put pen to paper or fingers on a keyboard while glorifying God. However, she did not know how to find a place among them. She desired a community.

I think this story could be descriptive of many new writers. While the act of writing is a solitary activity, we need a community in which to grow in our faith and our craft. We need a place where we can encourage and be encouraged. Inscribe is one such place. Since becoming part of this community, I have become braver in sharing my writing. I shared bits and pieces before with people I knew. Now I share with more consistency and depth. I still write lighthearted, surface pieces since we need to have fun, however I don't shy away from sharing beyond those and showing my serious side. 

I took a huge step early on in my time with Inscribe and attended a writer's retreat. What a joy to share a time of prayer and learning with other writers. Perhaps the biggest benefit, which has spurred on my writing most, is reading the encouraging words others share. The blog, the magazine, the challenges, and the prayer make this an encouraging community. It is a place to grow. 

I am thankful for those who keep this community running, who encourage us, and who challenge us. I hope others who are looking for a community of writers find a home here as I have.