Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Giving Thanks for the Gift of Writing by Morgan Mandel

Sometimes I get aggravated when I can't think of the words to say exactly what I want. Often, I wish I had more time to spend creating new worlds for others to enter.

I've faced discouragement, wondering if I can complete a manuscript, wondering if I have enough talent to whip it into shape, wondering if readers will like it after it's been released.

I've been plagued by worries about book covers, blurbs, reviews, and all sorts of other concerns, like how to tell others about what my books are about so they'll want to read them.

Despite all the scary or bad times, I still can't deny I love writing. Now that I'm hooked I can't conceive of ever doing without it.  Writing is a friend I can turn to through tough times. It's an escape from the real world into whereever my imagination will take me. When I write, at times I can express myself better than in person. It's an outlet for my emotions, be they happy, sad, envious, angry, or confused.

This Thanksgiving, I'm not only thankful for the blessingsof my family, my dog, my house, my friends, food on the table, a job, my relatively good health, but also for the joy of writing. I'm very lucky to have this wonderful gift. My life would have a big hole in it if I couldn't write any more.

If you're a writer, have you ever stopped to think about what a wonderful gift you have?

7 comments:

Terry Odell said...

I agree -- I began writing rather late in life, but it's become as necessary as breathing.

Lillian Robinson said...

Yes, I have thanked God for giving me the gift of writing. Thanks for reminding me to be thankful for it this holiday!

Marilyn Meredith a.k.a. F. M. Meredith said...

I agree. Being able to write, to express what is in your heart and mind, is a great gift. I'm thankful too.

Marilyn

Bob Sanchez said...

Yes, I'm deeply grateful for my modest writing ability, which continues to give me so much pleasure and from time to time pleases others. Writing has gained me most of my friends, and they have come to mean a great deal in my life.

Patricia Stoltey said...

I treasure every moment and every word I put down on paper. What a wonderful way to spend my "retirement."

Rob Walker said...

One can see writing as a gift of course as it keeps our minds and hearts healthy and in fact it has been shown that writing is often the BEST therapy. In that sense it is a precious gift indeed. I can imagine losing it, as I have in a time of terrible upheaval and depression, and for all I lost at that time the most horrible was my ability to write. What the Lord givetth...you know. So stay healthy and in a good place with good order in your life folks and enjoy the gift.

Connie Arnold said...

Thanks for the reminder to be thankful for the gift of writing, Morgan! I'm thankful for the gift given to me and to other writers, who provide good writing for me to read!