“If we don’t respect the past we’ll find it harder to
build the future.”
I know, on Downton Abbey, this one liner had nothing to do
with writing and all to do with not casting aside townsfolk for the sake of
progress.
But, as I am often wont to do with many things these days, I
started thinking about that remarkable quote as it might pertain to writing.
What does it mean to me, as a writer, to respect the past? And how can I incorporate some advice for new
writers and try to build a better future?
In my hooptedoodle world, I have always struggled with being
organized and setting priorities. It was very odd, but when I first started
writing, it was like I had to ‘set the stage before I started’. Before I wrote I thought I had to wake up,
clean up and tidy up. Maybe it was because I did not see my writing as a priority,
I thought I had to put everything in order before I put my brain in gear and
get words on a page. I didn’t get much done for a long time.
Then I began to learn. I attended conferences and learned
from the best. I read many books on the craft of writing and found out how the
writers I loved and respected managed. I took courses and joined writing groups.
I entered contests and gained courage to write and speak about the passions of
my heart. Best of all, I made friends. Lots and lots of writerly friends who
ended up being so much more
I tried all sorts of writing approaches. I listened and
learned and tried to apply all that acquired wisdom to my beloved craft.
I talked to God and I do believe [after many years] I finally
understood that this gift He had given me was truly one to be respected and
cherished and used for His ultimate glory.
As I think back, the same year I accepted the Lord as my
Saviour, was the same year my writing career began. (Do I hear a Hallelujah?] I
had just moved to the little community where I still reside. At the time, I
thought it all a coincidence, but I had spotted an advertisement for a 12 week
freelance writing course. I signed up right away, not quite sure what to
expect.
I fell in love with the writing process. I dared to contact
the local newspaper – they gave me my start. I stayed as a regular columnist
for 11 years. So many doors opened and so many opportunities were presented.
I sulked when I faced rejection. Then I learned it was part
of the process.
I wanted to quit when I discovered it wasn’t all wine and
roses. But then I decided that wasn’t my goal.
God said no to some things even though it looked like that
was where the big bucks were. Then I understood that writing for an audience of
One bestowed blessings (true riches) on me like I could never imagine.
I respect the past because God was there. I will continue to
commit my work to God because he gave me a gift for which I am truly grateful.
I will still work hard because I know that just because I
have passion and ability, doesn’t mean I have perfection.
I know the Earl of Grantham was on the right track as he
reminded those within earshot about the importance of learning from the past
and showing gratitude and respect to those who helped make the Yorkshire Dales
a better place to grow. He felt responsible and remembered those who contributed
to his success and growth. Impressive titles and great wealth was not the most
important matter. It was the relationships formed and the teamwork involved
that truly was the mark of true progress and success.
So it is with the writing life. I cannot even begin to think
about the many people who have helped me along the way. But I do know that I
did not stay a writer for 30 years on my own steam. God motivated me and
blessed me. Teachers and writers and a thousand others help pave the way. For
that I will remain truly grateful and I will endeavour to do my part to ‘pay it
forward.’
Commit your work to
the Lord, and your plans will be established
Proverbs 16:3
