tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67619994747842607212024-03-04T22:17:39.465-08:00Release The Writer Within... Running free, writing freely...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-39646885383976190762013-02-23T20:08:00.001-08:002013-02-25T09:23:50.989-08:00 RELEASE THE WRITER WITHIN<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to Release The Writer Within. On Sept 1, 2012 I challenged myself, and anyone that may stumble upon this blog site, to a 30 day writing challenge. During the month of September I posted daily insights, as well as my own thoughts, from reading through each chapter and aphorism from <a href="http://www.cecmurpheyswritertowriter.blogspot.ca/"><span style="color: #990000;">Cecil Murphey's</span></a> book <a href="http://www.cecmurpheyswritertowriter.blogspot.ca/"><span style="color: #990000;">Unleash The Writer Within</span></a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When I started this challenge the words spoken into my heart were "there is healing in the writing" not "there is healing in the perfect writing."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As you will see when reading through my postings, that they are far from perfect. There are grammar errors and editing mistakes. But, in spite of the mistakes, I hope you will read between the lines and finds some words of wisdom!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Since writing The 30 Day Writing Challenge there have been several challenges in my own life. I have done a lot of reflecting and soul searching trying to seek what direction to take in my writing and blogging. This is the insight that I have gained: </span><span style="font-size: large;">I've come to realize that even if I never make the recommendations of any professional writer's </span><span style="font-size: large;">or </span><span style="font-size: large;">blogger's website or write a #1 best selling book, </span><span style="font-size: large;">my hope is to bring encouragement to someone out there that may stumble upon this site, read this 30 day challenge, pick up a pen, and find that there is "healing in the writing" for their own heart! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy the Journey!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-14019446261143360142012-09-30T19:33:00.001-07:002013-03-04T07:46:26.731-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 30 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;"> ~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 30</span> ~ A PARTING WORD ~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 30</span> ~</span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil closes this book with some thought provoking questions like, Why do we want to write? and, What pushes or compels us to keep on writing? Even in the midst of uncertainty, rejections, and inner and outer critics of our work? W</span><span style="font-size: large;">e don't have to write, in fact he says that life might be easier for us if we delete all our document files.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But he advices us that if we feel we <em>must </em>write, if we <em>know</em> that we will never be fulfilled unless we give our best, then we will be miserable if we delete our files. He says, "Wouldn't you feel better to say at the end of your life, I tried, than to say, If only I had...?"</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">For me, I 've come to realize that the words "<em>There is healing in the</em> <em>writing</em>" that were spoken so gently into my heart when I first began this 30 Day Writing Challenge were true. The chains have been broken, and my voice, my writing voice, has been set free. </span><span style="font-size: large;">My hope is these <em>healing words</em> hold true for you too, no matter what, or who, has kept your voice captive.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil wants us to consider the possibility that we have stories to tell the world, teachings to inspire others, and words to encourage the fearful and isolated. He writes, "You can focus your energies on all the reasons you can't or shouldn't write. Or you can say, "I have things to say. I have to write them."And who knows the effects of your words?" </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">He gives us some final thoughts to think about.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">* Write to find out who you are.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">* Who you are determines what you write.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">* The more you write, the more you learn who you are.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">* The more you learn who you are, the better you like yourself.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">* The better you like yourself, the more you're able to help others.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">* "Unleash the writer within."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">All I can say is <a href="http://cecmurpheyswritertowriter.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #990000;">Cecil Murphey</span></a>, your stories and teachings from this awesome book have inspired me. Your words have encouraged me when I felt fearful, and isolated. You've helped me to focus my energies on reasons why I should write. Your words of wisdom from each of these chapters and Aphorisms will have a lasting effect on me. Why? Because you've unleashed the writer within me! You have given me the tools that I need to carry on with the <em>next chapter</em> of my writing journey and the desire to want to say at the end of my life, "I tried !" "I let go!". With healing words and loving hands to guide me, I've returned to innocense in my heart. You see this is <span id="goog_1411358532"></span><span style="color: black;">where the healing beings</span> and freedom is found! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My hope is that you the reading audience have enjoyed this 30 Day Writing Challenge. That you have seen the face of grace peering behind the pages and read the words of wisdom between the lines from Cecil Murphey's book <em><a href="http://cecmurpheyswritertowriter.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #990000;">Unleash The Writer Within</span></a></em> and the <em>Release The Writer</em> <em>Within</em> postings. My prayer is that you will pick up your pen and write, clear your voice and sing, tune your instrument and play or what ever it is that you feel unleashed and released within to do! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Listen to Cecil beckoning you to: "<a href="http://cecmurpheyswritertowriter.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #990000;">Unleash the Writer Within</span></a>"</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My heartfelt thank you to </span><a href="http://cecmurpheyswritertowriter.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">Cecil Murphey</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> for giving me permission to write a 30 Day Writing Challenge on your book Unleash the Writer Within. I can't tell you how much I appreciate the encouragement and grace you have given me to write and tweak my way through your wonderful book.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My thank you to </span><a href="http://beautiful.wordfromhome.com/"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">Brenda Leyland</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> for providing the <em>Blogging ABC's for Newbies</em> course so I could set up this blog site and begin blogging/online writing. I appreciate your encouragement. To my dear friend </span><a href="http://marcia-rolling.blogspot.ca/"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">Marcia Jansen </span></a><span style="font-size: large;">for seeing a <em>diamond in</em> <em>the rough</em> in me many years ago and encouraging me as a friend and a writer to carry on. Your gracious advice is always appreciated. To my family for being my extra set of eyes to catch grammar and spelling errors even though we still missed the mark on some of them. To you the reading audience for taking the time to read each posting and for visiting this site. I hope you will continue to come and visit this site and follow me on my new adventure </span><a href="http://return-to-innocense.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">Where The Healing Begins</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> Blog Site !</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-63805912730178266592012-09-29T20:49:00.003-07:002013-03-04T07:49:16.611-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 29 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 29</span> ~ LETTING IT GO ~ <span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 27</span> ~</span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As I write on this topic and realize that tomorrow is my final post of The 30 Day Writing Challenge, it seems quite fitting that the topic <em>Letting it Go</em> is about letting go.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil talks about two different kinds of writers. Those who won't hold back their manuscripts, and those who won't let go of them. He says that the first group are those who have to send everything as soon as they hit the final period and that they are more resistant to help. In his opinion he feels that the more insecure they are, the more they will refuse to learn and grow. They will defend obvious mistakes or be unable to hear criticism. If this applies to you, that means you must be right when you discuss anything. He writes, "You can't face being wrong, and you rarely apologize." </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Boy, all I can say is I have experienced that kind of personality in both my work place and in ministry. It's tough to deal with. The only way they will change is usually by circumstances, tough circumstances. The kind that will bring you to your knees circumstances! </span><span style="font-size: large;">It reminds me of the old saying. <em>Pride Goethe before folly.</em> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The second group Cecil mentions are the kind of writers who hold back their manuscripts and have problems releasing them. He says that this was the group that he is more like or at least the way he used to be. He writes, "I'm not a perfectionist, but it was painful to release an article or book. I would think, <em>This could be better.</em> However, I didn't know how to make it better." </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As I read about the second group of writers I am reminded once again of another old saying. <em>We change when the pain to change is less than the pain to stay the same! </em></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have to ask myself, where do I fit in...is there a third kind of writer? I think I'm pretty teachable, at least I feel I have gotten more so as I have grown older. Perhaps it's because my pride <em>wenteth</em> because of my folly and I changed because the pain to change became less than the pain to stay the same!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil shares that he is highly prolific. One reason is because he finally figured out how to say to himself, "This is the best I can do at this stage of my development." He goes on to say that he finally gave himself permission to let go.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil advices if you're the kind who holds back, who wants to make it just a little better, take a risk. He says, "Let it go."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for this chapter is: "This is the best I can do at this stage of my development."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is the final chapter of this wonderful book. Tomorrow I will share some final thoughts from Cecil Murphey. I will also be sharing with you what <em>the next</em> <em>chapter </em>of this journey in writing I'm on will be. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism #27: "This is the best I can do </strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-83900055377621487542012-09-28T21:19:00.004-07:002013-03-04T07:50:59.764-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 28 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 28</span> ~ WRITING--</span><span style="font-size: large;">YOUR PASSION ~ <span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 26</span> ~</span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;">While writing the posting for this chapter a thought came to me, perhaps it's another Aphorism! It goes like this. <em>It is important to have passion for what you write and to write with passion</em>. I think there is a difference. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil shares how he turned down a writing project from a wealthy entrepreneur that would have given him a considerable amount of money and guaranteed work for some time, but he turns the job offer down. Why? As Cecil puts it "I felt no enthusiasm. No conviction. His book ideas were topics on which I probably had only a mild interest. Although none of the ideas went against my sense of integrity, I had no strong feelings to pursue them. That question of zeal or passion was the deciding factor." </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I don't about you but I find that to turn such an offer down admirable. It would be hard to be enthusiastic about topics you can't relate to. No amount of money would change what is not in your heart. You might be wealthy, but you might be miserable too!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil also shares how conviction and energy come from within. That our fervency (or lack of it) shows, whether we are writing about investing in stocks, historical fiction, or how to build a fabulous wardrobe on a budget. He says, "To write passionately, we need to "catch fire" as one writer put it. We need to be carried along by something stronger than our normal self."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When we are considering writing a book on any topic Cecil's advice to us is to check our feelings. He says, "Ask yourself, can I stay excited about this for nine months or a year?"</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This topic on passion really tugs at my own heart for the very reason that I to need to feel passionate about the subjects I write. I have to write from the heart. It's just who I am and although there is much room for improvement with grammar and basic skills in my writing, I know that I know writing is what I want to do. It's like a calling. I have my career which is my day job but my writing is my passion. Perhaps one day the two will become one in the same!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil says that writing passionately fulfills certain inward demands. If you don't find pleasure in typing the words and thoughts, you're not writing from passion. He writes, "When you write, you probably start with what you've thought about, know, or you've researched, but that's not where fervor enters the process. Passion flows when you discover what you didn't yet know. It's like finding a wrapped gift at your front door with your name on it, and you can hardly wait to open the box."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil shares how he writes for self-discovery, and that the writing doesn't have to be subjective. He mentions that he liked how one woman called writing an <em>excavation</em>. "If writing is excavating, you learn deeper meanings, and the intensity increases through the simple act of tapping the keyboard."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Another thought just came to my mind as I read Cecil's comments from this previous paragraph. <em>We grow word by word, line by line, tapping and digging as thoughts come to mind!</em> Wow, my creative juices are really on a roll tonight!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for this chapter is: "I am a passionate person. I can be a passionate writer if I choose."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism # 26:</strong> <strong>"I am a passionate person. </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> I can be a passionate writer if I choose."</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-62475661211171207412012-09-27T21:38:00.002-07:002013-03-04T07:52:30.138-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 27 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 27</span> ~ OUR ENVIOUS NATURE ~ <span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 25</span> ~</span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">While reading through this chapter I found myself feeling a little uneasy, and honestly, somewhat sad. You see I know what it's like to experience the brunt of other peoples envy and jealousy. It hurts ! I'll share some thoughts on this a little later but first I think Cecil has some great insight on this topic.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span> <span style="font-size: large;">Cecil writes, "</span><span style="font-size: large;">Although we tend to interchange envy and jealousy, I'm convinced they're different. Here's how I make the distinction, although both are negative emotions. Jealousy happens when we're focused on another person. I may be jealous if you spend too much time with someone I love." He goes on to give an example of having lunch with a group of writers along with his agent, and experiencing the feeling of jealousy because his good friend is paying all his attention to his agent and ignoring him. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">He goes on to say, "Envy is different. It's not focused the same way. For me, envy doesn't want you to have it because I want it myself and only for myself. I can be envious of any writer who is more successful, has a better platform, hosts a bigger Web presence, or gets more tweets that I do. That means I want what she has."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">I've shared a bit of myself and my story on day 2 posting of The 30 day Writing Challenge. I'd stepped away from pretty much all forms of public christian ministry and organizations in order to take some time to heal from the wounding of well meaning people that did not realize that their own wounds of their past were effecting them in such a way that it was causing destruction not only to themselves but to me and to others that tried to reach out and help them. There's a saying <em>hurting people hurt people.</em> I believe, envy and jealousy were just some of the root issues that were causing them to act out the way they did.<br />
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Cecil says that envy is often mentioned in Catholic moral theology as one of the seven deadly sins. "And if envy grabs you, you might resent anyone who seems to have more of something better than you do. If unchecked, envy can lead to loathing the other." He goes on to write, "The gravity of the sickness obviously depends on how strongly you feel. You might recognize that you're envious and bewail your weakness or human failing--which probably comes out of your childhood need for affirmation and acceptance. That's how I finally understood envy."<br />
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Cecil goes on to share that if envy afflicts you, it probably means you're heavily committed to becoming the best possible writer and that other authors--undeserving in your opinion--get the acclaim that should be yours. He writes, "Because I've been in this writing life longer than most writers who still produce and sell, I'd like to tell you how I see this problem capturing the heart of writers." </span><br />
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Cecil shares a few possible solutions.<br />
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"First, <em>envy is natural</em>. It's not a moral failure or a flaw in your character. In fact, it says you're aware of yourself, as well as being conscious of others. Its says you care deeply about the craft, and you want to succeed."<br />
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"Second, there is a positive element. <em>You can use that emotion to</em> <em>push you to improve your writing style</em>. The negative occurs when you allow your attitude or actions to divert your energy."<br />
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"<em>Third, once you're aware of envy, you have a choice</em>. You can encourage it to grow by giving it tacit permission. The most obvious way is is to speak up <em>unfavorably</em> every time you hear the other's name mentioned."<br />
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Cecil goes on to give us some helpful advice such as, to say <em>nothing negative</em> about other writers, no matter how strongly you feel. He also mentions that if you are a praying person you can <em>pray for the other writer</em>. He shares, "Now you can focus on your craft without wishing you were somebody else who has attained what you consider the epitome of triumph--the kind of feat you yearn to experience. He goes on to say, "Ask yourself this question; <em>What am I learning about myself through this emotional reaction?</em> It can enable you to be aware of what's important to you."<br />
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I know one of the main reasons why I feel so passionate about this book. It's because I believe it can help <em>anyone</em> that needs healing, encouragement, and understanding, not just writers.<br />
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The Aphorism for this chapter is: "I can resent others for their achievements, or I can admire them for what they've accomplished. I can determine to work as hard as they do."<br />
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Until tomorrow,<br />
Bless you,<br />
Terilyn<br />
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<strong>Aphorism # 25: "I can resent others for their </strong><br />
<strong> achievements, </strong><strong>or I can admire them for what </strong><br />
<strong> they've </strong><strong>accomplished. </strong><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-66776330057680029612012-09-26T20:07:00.002-07:002013-03-04T07:56:47.619-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 26 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 26</span> ~ COMPARING YOURSELF ~ <span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 24</span> ~</span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I think it's safe to say that comparing ourselves to others is something all of us can relate to at some time in our lives, whether you're an aspiring writer, singer, musician or simply new at your job. Comparing oneself is bound to happen sooner or later. It's what we do with it when it happens that ultimately can have a positive or negative effect.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil gives us an illustration with his two daughters, Wanda and Cecile. He writes, "Wanda was a top student with excellent grades. I never worried about her. Cecile, however, was the artistic type, and she stayed in the average category in the subjects where her older sister excelled. One time, Cecile had a low report grade in social studies. I asked one question: "Did you do you best?" With tears in her eyes, she nodded. "That's all I ask." And I meant that. When it came to music and art, she was outstanding, so she had her areas of strength. She would never pull down the grades that put her sister on the honor roll."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Wow, I admire the environment that Cecile provides for his daughters. To me I see a safe place where they can grow and learn from their mistakes without feeling they are being compared to or competing with one another. That's healthy. That's love!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil continues to say, "It works the same way with writing. You can't be perfect; you won't be outstanding in every phase of the craft. Here's you primary question: Am I doing my best? If you can answer yes, you're further along than the average writer."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil gives us a small list of what he calls self-scrutiny questions that he feels may aid our progress. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">* What are my strengths?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">* How can I make them ever stronger?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">* What kind of things do I write well?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">* Where am I weak?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">*In what areas do I need improvement?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Although they are simple questions, Cecil used them to push himself to look inward as honestly as he could and although they were difficult for him, he was able to see and acknowledge his strengths.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As I read through the list of questions, it doesn't take long for me to see areas in my own writing and attitude in general that can always use tweaking. I believe wholeheartedly that it is so important to provide a loving atmoshpere which allows freedom to grow.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to share two of his strengths. He says, "I <em>write with heart. </em>Readers tell me they can feel what I write. That's probably my greatest strength<em>. </em>I <em>write with clarity. </em>That is, I seem to be able to take complicated issues or thoughts and make them simple."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I have to admit, I've had moments during this 30 day writing challenge where I've had those negative thoughts of comparing myself come creeping in. Thoughts like, what was I thinking taking on something as challenging as this? What will other writers think of my writing? Will I offend the reading audience with some of my comments even though that would never be my intention? Most importantly, will I bring honor to Cecil's name and his book?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil says, "The only healthy way to compare your writing is to look at your earlier work and contrast it with your current products." Cecil goes on to say, "By comparing myself with myself, I saw that I had grown." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm reminded once again not to look around, but to look within, and to look up to Him...the Author, and Finisher of my faith!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for this chapter is: "If I evaluate my writing, I compare my older work with my newer so I can see my growth."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism #24: "If I evaluate my writing,</strong></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> I compare my older work with my newer</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> so I can see my growth." </span></strong><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-18080087745910982062012-09-25T21:50:00.001-07:002013-03-04T08:01:44.552-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 25 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~<span style="font-size: small;">Day 25</span>~EXPANDING YOUR COMFORT~<span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 23</span></span><span style="font-size: large;">~ </span></h4>
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ZONE</span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So tell me, have you ever dared to dream big? To push yourself beyond the boundaries that you have shrunk back from so many times before? Perhaps you've convinced yourself you are about to write the next New York Times best seller? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Come to think about it, that dream did become a reality for Cecil Murphey. But as I've followed Cecil through this amazing book, it's obvious it started with a humble beginning. Let's see what Cecil has to say. He writes, "I had been publishing about ten years when I heard a dynamic speaker at a conference where I taught. He was riveting, and he spoke most of the time about our "comfort zone." At the time, it was a new phrase for me. "Push ahead! Move on! Take risks!" That's typical of his message. He told several delightful stories of the times he did exactly what he advocated and gave us the marvelous results--all success stories." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to share that because he liked what the speaker said and found him inspiring, he bought his CD. He also wanted to push against the boundaries and restrictions of his own life. But after he heard the CD at home, a number of questions surfaced. He says, "The first one was simple: What happens if I step out of my comfort zone and fail? Had he ever failed? If so, how did it affect him? If he didn't fail, was he embracing risks or simply taking the next obvious step?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I have to admit when I read the first paragraph of this chapter, I couldn't help but smile and wonder if I had not only heard the same speaker but had bought the same CD! Or should I say taken the bait, (just kidding). The "Dream Big" and go after your dream type of message has definitely been popular in both secular and christian conferences. And have you noticed that its usually the same two or three success stories told over and over? ..Just thought I'd ask. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil writes, "As a writer, I've taken risks and some have succeeded; others haven't." He goes on the share the story of writing the book called <em>90 Minutes in Heaven. </em>Although Cecil, and his agent, believed in the book, it didn't get published right away. In fact it was turned down from about a dozen publishers before it was finally sold to Revell, part of Baker Books. Since the writing of this book, <em>90 Minutes in Heaven</em> has sold in excess of five million copies in English and has gone into forty-one translations. It has also been a New York Times best seller. </span><span style="font-size: large;">That's a dream come true in my books! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">"That's history," says Cecil, "but what about the risk factor? Had I really moved out of my comfort zone? According to that charismatic speaker, I hadn't." </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to write, "I could obviously argue this either way, but from my perspective, I stayed with the book because I believed in it. I trusted my instincts, and I've been wrong a few times. I didn't see it as risky, only as the way the publishing business operates."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Although the "Dream Big" and fight the forces of doubt until we prevailed was the advice of the charismatic speaker Cecil says its just not his style. He writes, "It may not be your style, either." </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I would have to say "been there, done that". I've attended the <em>go after your dreams</em> type seminars, listened to the CDs and read and re-read some of the "how to ____", you can fill in the blank books. And with a sigh of relieve and recovery I can say it's not my style either! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil says, "You hear or read intriguing information, get excited about projects or ideas, and you don't do anything about them. The tendency is to feel you've failed or you've procrastinated. Maybe"</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have found that you can easily feel like you're out of the loop if you're not participating with the latest or most popular trend, whether it's writing or other interests one may be involved in.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil shares, "Perhaps it's your inner wisdom that pulls you back and refuses to let you participate." He goes on to say, "Start within your comfort zone and write from who you are. That's not all. I urge you to begin what I call an <em>unrelenting search for your true self.</em> As you learn about yourself, you expand your comfort zone. You take what some would call risks, but to you the so-called risk becomes the next right step."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> He goes on to say, </span><span style="font-size: large;">"If you're aware of yourself, your situation, and if you're connected to your inner motivation, do you need more? Do you need to push forward or march onward? Do you need to go on the attack? I don't, and I don't want to be a role model that says, "Do it my way." If I become a model for anyone, I want to be one who not only gives permission but urges others to do things their way." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">All I can say is, anyone that encourages me as a writer to just be myself and write from my heart is an admirable model to me!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for the chapter is: "Moving out of my comfort zone is right when it's the next best step, or if it fits within my superior mode."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow, </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism #23: "Moving out of my comfort zone is </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> right</strong></span><span style="font-size: large;"><strong> when it's the next best step, </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> or if it fits within my superior mode."</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-5120725859576187052012-09-24T19:56:00.001-07:002013-02-26T07:06:09.961-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 24 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Day 24 </span>~SEEING THROUGH DIFFERENT~ </span><span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 22</span></h4>
<span style="font-size: large;"> <strong>EYES</strong></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In this chapter Cecil starts off by telling a story of a boy named Juma. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Cecil writes, "As I understand the story, Juma's mission had been to go to the West and learn. He was then to come back and translate the wisdom of the educated and enlightened. When Juma returned, he had to relearn the wisdom of the village." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I believe the moral of the story is the boy (Juma) had gained knowledge and information from living in the Western culture but he had lost his own sense of wisdom that the people of his village rely on. As Cecil writes, "They learned by going inward and allowing themselves to feel and to hear what was around them." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He goes on to say, "Juma had tried to figure out the answers by logical investigation and scrutiny. <em>He had cut himself off from his inner wisdom." </em></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My understanding of this is Juma lost his sense of inner knowing and intuition. He stopped trusting his heart.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil shares, "That happens to many of us. Perhaps to you as well.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You started with that uninhibited insight about life when you were a child. You spoke out of innocence, and sometimes others laughed at your words, even when you showed insight. The inhibiting forces of society pushed you to deny what you knew." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Sadly, I have seen this with myself and others after taking a program or a course of some kind. It starts off with the best intentions but subtlety you start to loose trust in your own gut feelings because you are being taught not to trust in them. You are being told that you could be "deceived" or "mislead". You are to put your trust in the leader or teacher or program instructions etc, etc. I see similarities in Cecil's story about Juma and these examples I just gave as the difference between law (application) verses grace (transformation). The same type of influences, or should I say negative influences, can also happen in writing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil says, "If you want to write like everyone else, then do nothing differently. Use the same words and speak the same thoughts. But if you want to enrich others, you have to learn to perceive life differently." Cecil advices us that if we want our writing to have depth, texture, meaning, and endurance, it must go beyond what others see. He writes,"That doesn't make you a superior writer, </span><span style="font-size: large;">but it does make you different." He goes on to say, "If you want to change, you can adjust the way you see things."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Perhaps there is a Juma in all of us just waiting to break free. As Cecil shares, "Like all of us, you have some bias, but you can write with impaired vision. Or you can do what Juma did. You can listen to what your heart tells us and go inward. </span><span style="font-size: large;">You can learn to see life differently."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> It's heart knowledge, not head knowledge. It reminds me of one of my favorite scripture verses. <em>Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths. <span style="font-size: small;">Proverbs 3:5,6</span></em></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for this chapter is: "I've spent much of my life being like others. Now I want to spend time being like the real me."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism #22: " I've spent much of my life being </strong></span><span style="font-size: large;"><strong> like others. </strong></span><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Now I want to spend time being like the real me."</span></strong><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-38480189123491931952012-09-23T22:23:00.001-07:002013-02-26T07:16:01.413-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 23 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~<span style="font-size: small;">Day 23</span>~DISCOVERING YOUR RHYTHM~<span style="font-size: small;">Chapter</span> <span style="font-size: small;">21</span>~</span></h4>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I guess the best way to describe the content of this chapter is to simply say it is about finding the best working methods for you to get your writing project complete before that dreaded <em>DEADLINE!</em></span><br />
<em><span style="font-size: large;"></span></em><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil gives different ways that we as writers go about getting our writing project from our heads onto paper. He writes, "All of us have different working methods, and I urge you to find whatever works best for you." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil gives examples of different ways writers go about this. There are the procrastinators that leave it until the pressure is on. Burning up the midnight oil working tirelessly on their project until the midnight deadline. Or there are the more organized type that make use of every free moment they have to get their project finished in good time. So which style best describes you? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I must admit I tend to lean toward working under pressure. I have a pattern that for now seems to work for me. For example, writing posts for this blog I read the chapter in the morning and jot down some thoughts. I then go to work at my day job. I mull things around in my head during the day (I guess they call that editing). After supper I sit at my computer and write with the hope to get the blog posted before midnight ...at least on this side of the world! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil says, "The best piece of advice that I can offer is to be who you are and live within your preferred way of doing things. You probably went through school and college with that pattern."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">All I can say to that is, Cecil you just described my high school years. Whenever I had to write an essay on a book I would simply read the back cover of it and ask my friends what the book was about and hope that information would be enough to write the essay. No wonder English was my worst subject! Now I love reading books and I love writing too.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil refers to his grad school years. He writes, "I've always been fairly well organized, but I had to make every half hour count. I did it, but I wouldn't advise anyone to emulate my behavior." He goes on to say, "I carried that style with me into my career. When I began to write, I was a pastor of an exciting , growing congregation. I set aside one hour every morning before my secretary arrived. <em>One hour.</em> I couldn't sit and stare in space." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to share that he would use situations such as travel time to edit inside his head. He writes, "These examples are to say that you need to find what works for you. Don't try to follow my pattern. You have your own rhythm, and you're happier and more prolific if you follow your natural bent."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">My advice is don't follow my pattern either !</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil also goes on to say, "Writing, like any other phase of your life, needs to take on a rhythmic pattern. You'll have the low times as well as those days when your fingers can't type fast enough to stay up with your mind."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Taking hiatus periods have been wonderful for Cecil. It has given him a chance to rethink and refocus. He says, "Here's what I'd like you to get from this chapter: By pulling away temporarily, you can refocus and reassess your writing. You don't have to be productive every day."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil shares that the best part of writing takes place inside his head. He says, "It's the thinking, discarding, rethinking, and absorbing more of life that leads to my best writing. That takes place long before words appear on a page." He goes on to write, "I remind you to be whoever you are and to follow your own natural bent. Don't try to emulate me or anyone else." </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I hope you see what I see in between these lines. I see freedom, I see grace. I see guiding hands and a loving face!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for this chapter is : "I want to be the best me I can.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So I follow my natural rhythm, and don't try to imitate anyone else."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism #21: "I want to be the best me I can.</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong> So I follow my natural rhythm, </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> and don't try to imitate anyone else."</strong></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-69564201346376525792012-09-22T20:24:00.001-07:002013-02-26T07:19:26.580-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 22 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 22</span> ~DO I HAVE TO WRITE <em>THAT</em> ?~ <span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 20</span> ~</span></h4>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So tell me, have you ever wrestled with this question when you're about to reveal something personal about yourself? How much do I share? And do they really care ?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Well, it looks like this chapter is about finding that healthy balance between transparency and vulnerability without loosing our self-respect, and dignity. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil gives us some good insight on this issue. While speaking at a conference, he shares about getting in touch with your inner self and being honest with who you are. He stressed the need to probe inside, to find who you are, and to write from within. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He says that writing is an opportunity to move into the deeper parts of ourselves. He writes,"That doesn't mean you have to write everything you understand. The writing process becomes a tool for deeper soul penetration." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He goes on to say, "Once you gain insight about yourself, you become stronger and emotionally healthier. Your writing is different, but the principle is the same. If you're open to yourself, you gain insight and realize the implications of how it affects your thinking and your behaviour."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As a rookie writer myself, this issue tugs at my own emotions. How do I find the balance between sharing with the readership who I really am, yet maintaining personal privacy for myself and the loved ones in my life.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil writes, "Once you integrate the new into your life, that's the time to ask yourself whether you need to write about it. Sometimes that's exactly the path to take. But not always."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As I read through the true stories and examples Cecil gives in this chapter, my own thoughts come very clear to me. We all want our voice to be heard. We all want someone to care. We all want to tell the world our stories of survival with the hope of bringing healing to others.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When addressing the question: Do I have to write <em>that</em>?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The answer Cecil gives is no. But he does encourage us that if we feel compelled to share our pain, recovery, or insight, we won't have peace until we do. He says, "Tell us more than what happened. Tell us what you learned about yourself. And if you didn't learn something that embarrasses or shames you, perhaps you're still not ready to open your heart to the world."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I don't know about you but that sounds like humility to me. I've heard it said that if we aren't humbled by our experiences we will not grow from them either. We remain victims instead of victors.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for this chapter is : "When I write from within, I put into words what others think but cannot say."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism #20: "When I write from within, </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> I put into words what others think </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> but cannot say."</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-30245567036823128392012-09-21T20:57:00.001-07:002013-02-26T07:26:18.994-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 21 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 21</span> ~ BECAUSE I WAS AFRAID ~ <span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 19</span> ~</span></h4>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I know I have said something similar to this in previous posts, but I will say it again, and again. I am amazed and encouraged that someone with the years of experience Cecil Murphey has as a writer, speaker, teacher and preacher is so willing to show vulnerability, honesty and transparency throughout this entire book. Why? Because it also allows us as readers, writers, singers and everything in between to be encouraged to do the same!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Honestly, I have never met someone in person that is so willing to do this, especially a male. In a world where barring one's soul and showing our weakness can be very risky. All I can say is wow, what courage... What freedom. I want some of that!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil shares in this chapter on how writing this very book brought about fear. He writes, "As I pondered, I realized that such a book would force me to lay myself on the line. Readers would identify my true self, who I truly am, and I wasn't sure I wanted them to recognize me. If I completed the book, I would lay myself out there for public scrutiny and readers could gaze with undisguised disgust."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He goes on to say, "But worst--the absolute worst fear--was (and still is): what do I have to say that will help other writers? In my struggles, I also faced another reality, and that's part of the fear. Some people might not like what I write; others might not like my style; but worse, they might not like me."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">There is an acronym for fear I would like to share with you. It goes like this: </span><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>FEAR</em></strong>: <strong>F</strong>alse <strong>E</strong>vidence <strong>A</strong>ppearing <strong>R</strong>eal. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I have to admit fear has reeked havoc in my own life more than once, causing me to stew in my own worrisome juices. I've also heard it said that 90% of the things that we worry about don't ever come to pass!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil says that fear keeps us running (or paralyzes us) and reminds us that we have to take risks to succeed. Even his own agent said, </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"Too many writers won't acknowledge their fear, and when they eventually come to the place where they realize they're afraid, they freeze." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to say that once he acknowledged his fear and faced the "signs" God had placed in his path, he knew he had to respond."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm thankful he listened, surrendered and barred his soul by writing this book. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for this chapter is: "I feel afraid when I bare my soul. I run the risk that others will despise me, ridicule me, or ignore me. But that's who I am. That's all I have to offer."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism #19: "I feel afraid when I bare my soul. </strong></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> I run the risk that others will despise me, </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> ridicule me, or ignore me. </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> But that's who I am. </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> That's all I have to offer."</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-79329993084605669162012-09-20T19:37:00.001-07:002013-02-26T07:52:26.803-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 20 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 20</span> ~ IT'S HARD... ~ <span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 18</span> ~</span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;"> AND GETTING HARDER</span></h4>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In yesterday's post we talked about that dreaded old writer's block and how best to deal with it. Today we have another dilemma to wrestle with. It's called doubt. Have you ever been a "doubting Thomas"? I think if we are honest with ourselves we have all experienced that more than once.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"For a long time I thought it was an individual issue," Cecil says,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">" later I decided it was something only writers endured. From there I discovered that artists, singers, and other professionals also suffer. Maybe it's something common to people in most areas of work."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes to write, "Here's my dilemma. The more I write and the more honest I become, the worse my <em>writing feels</em>. This is an emotional issue, not a logical problem."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But Cecil discovered that the "doubting Thomas" has another name. Its called "palace guard". In fact there's two palace guards. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil says, "That's my word for the protective side of my personality--the part that doesn't want me to be hurt. Three experiences have helped me in my struggles to accept my palace guards." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to share, "Three times outsiders encouraged me; they didn't seem bothered about my struggle. Two of them considered it a positive experience." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> What did those voices mean? Cecil discovered that they meant the others spoke objectively while he fought subjectively with his inner demons. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He writes, "<em>Or maybe they're not demons."</em></span><br />
<em><span style="font-size: large;"></span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-size: large;">"What if those tormenting words are for your good?"</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-size: large;"></span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-size: large;">"What if the voices are there to help you?"</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-size: large;"></span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-size: large;">"What if they want to protect you?"</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-size: large;"></span></em><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He goes on to say, "That final question opened a wide door of understanding. What if the words came from a wiser, deeper, inner part of myself? What if those are protective devices--ways to stop me from doing something foolish or awkward?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil labeled it "the cry of the palace guards." He goes on to explain how they are like soldiers standing their ground . Their single duty is to protect him from embarrassment or humiliation. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil says, "They didn't want me to get hurt or wouldn't stand for the possibility that others might take advantage of my transparency."</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm truly amazed at how Cecil is able to take something as self destructive as doubt and once again turn it into something positive. Like turning gremlins into teddy bears! Once again showing how changing one's perspective can bring about a huge change in attitude and outcome! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Although this is not a cure for doubt, having a better understanding and better coping skills will help all of us experience self-</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">acceptance, wholeness and transparency. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil says that sometimes he will pause and reflect on struggles of the past. He is thankful that those guarding friends have saved him from many bad writing projects by correcting his mistakes or showing him better ways to slant an article. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Perhaps those palace guards or guarding friends are really guardian angles! Sounds encouraging to me!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for this chapter is: "I am committed to move deeper into myself, no matter how painful."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism #18: " I am committed to move deeper </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> into myself, </strong></span><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>no matter how painful."</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-28854443293954282072012-09-19T20:51:00.001-07:002013-02-26T18:33:59.959-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 19 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 19</span> ~ DO YOU WANT TO SHATTER ~ <span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 17 </span>~</span></h4>
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>WRITER'S BLOCK?</strong></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So tell me, has this ever happened to you? Have you ever sat blank faced in front of you computer screen? Every writer, song writer and probably just about every student that has had to write an essay or a report has had some sort of writer's block. </span><span style="font-size: large;">But, I think in this case Cecil is talking about something that lasts even longer than a few minutes, hours or even days. Perhaps weeks, months and in the extreme cases even years. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil says, "</span> <span style="font-size: large;">I've rarely met a writer who didn't speak about being unable to write at some point. In the years I've been in this profession, I've read an innumerable number of articles on how to break through the blockage, and many instruction books contain at least one chapter on the topic."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil continues to write, "We call it writer's block, and it's usually defined as a temporary or chronic inability to type words that appear on the screen. Most of the books, articles, and blogs on writing view writer's block (WB) as an obstacle in the path of writing. Your role is to push the blockage off the road, jump over it, destroy it, or go around it. It becomes the enemy you must defeat, because it prevents your being productive."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to give examples of methods that other writers use to overcome this obstacle. He also shares some different scenarios in how these are applied. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Cecil has his own perspective and way of dealing with this issue that I think makes a lot of sense. </span><span style="font-size: large;">He says, "But there's another way. Instead of seeing WB as an enemy or alien force, why not turn it around? Why not ask yourself, What can I learn from WB? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'll go further: WB is your friend.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Focus on that thought and ask yourself:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">* "What if WB is a symptom and not a cause?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">* "What if WB comes from some wise, inner part of myself that </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> wants to help me?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">* "What if battling WB is really fighting my deeper, inner self?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"Because my book focuses on you, the inner writer, I won't offer eight exercises for you to use to overcome the terrible disease. What I will offer is my insight into affirming and accepting WB."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil gives several helpful and insightful tips. Here are just a few that I have gleaned for this post.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">First, "C<em>onsider WB as a powerful force to help you regulate the </em></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><em> creative process."</em></span><br />
<em><span style="font-size: large;"></span></em><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Second, "T<em>hink of your ability as a gift from God</em>."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Third, "C<em>onsider the blockage as one that comes from within, not </em></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><em> an outer force that works against you."</em></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> I wish I could post all of them but nothing can replace reading the book in its entirety. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil's advice to us is, "The best way I know to avoid or overcome WB is to be kind and compassionate toward yourself." Cecil also shares, "My good writing develops inside my head long before it becomes words on my computer screen." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Clearly Cecil's advice is taking a negative situation such as WB and turning into a positive outcome. One that brings healing, release, and freedom to write once again. Surrounded in an atmosphere of love and compassion, mercy and grace.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for this chapter is: "When I'm blocked, I listen quietly and compassionately. My deep, inner voice wants to tell me something-something I need to know."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Until Tomorrow,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism #17: "When I'm blocked, I listen quietly </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> and compassionately. </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> My deep, inner voice wants to tell me</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> something, </strong></span><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>something I need to know."</strong></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-91052835987636918722012-09-18T20:17:00.000-07:002013-02-26T18:42:38.940-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 18 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 18</span> ~ LEARNING FROM YOUR ~ <span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 16 </span></span><span style="font-size: large;">~ </span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;"> DAYDREAMS</span> </h4>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I think this topic is something that everybody can relate to whether you are a writer or not. No matter our age or gender, daydreaming is a part of who we are, it's something all of us can relate to. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil says, "I daydream. Often. A lot. I go to sleep at night with a concocted storyline inside my head. I let it play out until I fall asleep (which, my wife insists, is less than two minutes). I'm always the hero, although sometimes I'm the innocent who is crushed by adversity. Even when I'm victimized, I'm of stellar character and noble deeds. They may not say I am, but they certainly tell me who I want to become."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He goes to write, "Daydreams connect with what we now call <em>self-talk.</em> Self-talk doesn't revolve around what happens to you, but what you say to yourself internally. Your inner chatter, the experts insist, determines your thoughts, feelings, and actions. They say your self talk determines the majority of you emotional choices."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to say "That's because the words you use to describe what is happening to you, and how you feel about external events, trigger the emotions of happiness or unhappiness you experience."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I once heard a popular TV evangelist give a lesson series entitled <u>Where the Mind Goes the Man Follows</u>. I enjoyed listening to the series and found it really did make sense. It was a good reminder to check my thoughts and where they were leading me. Was it down a path of destruction, or a path of wholeness and happiness? Sometimes that's easier said then done, especially if you have a tendency to worry.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil also says the experts will tell you that if you control that inner dialog, you can control every part of you life. Cecil writes, "I'm not willing to go that far, and my position is slightly different. Listen to yourself. What messages do you hear repeatedly in you imaginings?"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I agree with Cecil, we can't control what others say or do. We can only control what we will do, or not do in a situation. We are not God. </span><span style="font-size: large;">I do feel as a believer we can invite the Lord into our conversations and thoughts, asking and seeking His guidance in every situation.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to share some stories and examples about daydreams. He mentions reading biographies of star athletes using visualization to accomplish the outcome they want. He feels that's a bit extreme for him, but he does think that self-talk is an important aspect of monitoring and directing our free-floating thoughts.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I feel there is a healthy balance. Even the Bible is filled with what I would call <em>word pictures</em>. We can't help but see with the <em>eyes of our</em> <em>heart</em>. When ever I read or meditate on scripture I can visualize the setting or situation. It's part of our God given creativity. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> <span style="font-size: large;">Cecil writes, "By noticing your daydreams, you can learn to see your long-held (maybe even long-buried) goals. Whatever your daydreams are about, teach yourself to see the goal or purpose. How does it affect you? What do they tell you about yourself?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for this chapter is: "My daydreams teach me what's important to me. My first task is to pay attention to them."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism #16: "My daydreams teach me what's</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> important to </strong></span><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>me.</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> My first task is to pay attention to them."</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-38735988259284198962012-09-17T20:47:00.001-07:002013-02-26T18:49:36.322-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 17 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 17</span> ~ GROWING YOUR VOICE ~ <span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 15</span> ~</span></h4>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In this chapter Cecil shares about the kind of books he enjoys reading and the topics he is drawn to as a writer. He says, "I figured out something else about myself through my reading." He goes on to say, "More recently, I gained insight on the kind of adventure books I chose. I rarely read novels about nuclear destruction of the world or a programmed computer that, if unchecked, would destroy the economy of developed nations."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Intimate thrillers and action-suspense stories also interest Cecil . He shares, "I also like defined characters. I want to picture the males and females, and I like it when the heroes aren't six-foot-six but more average like the rest of us, and the same with the females. Sure, I want her to be pretty, but she doesn't need to look as if she should be on the cover of <em>Vogue</em>. What does this say about me? <em>Intimacy</em> is the first word that comes to mind. The more I get into the heads and hearts of the major characters, the more satisfying it is to me. and it's easier for me to identify with average people."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to say that out of all the different genres and books that he has either written, ghosted or collaborated with, the theme that he feels has impacted him the most are the underdog stories. Examples such as <em>Gifted Hands</em> and <em>Think Big</em> are the two books that Cecil wrote for Ben Carson. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Another message that comes out of Cecil's books is the topic on caregiving. He writes, "<em>Caregiving </em>implies emotion, transparency, and openness to hurting readers. When I focus on one of those topics, my emotions come to the surface."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I have to say I share similar likes in both my reading and writing style and topics, I love to read true stories about people finding wholeness after a trail in their lives and I root for the underdog whether it is in a movie or a novel. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">When I write, my desire is to bring hope and healing to a hurting world. I believe in the message of freedom, grace and giving encouragement to who ever may be in need. I attempt to do this through sharing personal stories or using life experiences dealing with issues of the heart. Another style I enjoy is using the Living word from the Good News Gospel. I like using our five senses when writing with the hope of bringing the readers into an emotional experience and touching their hearts. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I have read where if we can capture that reader's heart it will have a greater impact on them and they are most likely to remember the message long after the story or book is finished. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil finishes off this chapter by saying, "If you are free to expose yourself, and I identify with your risk-taking, you win. I also win because I become a better writer."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for this chapter is: "I learn from other writers. I grow my voice by paying attention to the writers I like to read."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">terilyn</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism # 15: "I learn from other writers.</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> I grow my voice by paying attention </strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> to the writers I like to read."</strong></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-87251405720756205322012-09-16T18:18:00.003-07:002013-03-01T07:44:06.532-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 16 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 16 </span>~</span> <span style="font-size: large;">FINDING YOUR VOICE </span><span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 14 </span></span><span style="font-size: large;">~</span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">THROUGH OTHERS</span></h4>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In this chapter Cecil talks about finding our writing voice through others and how certain writers speak to us through their prose, whether it's fiction or nonfiction. He says,"You may have a favorite writer or book at one time and change later. That may be one way to look at your growth." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I can totally relate to the above comment. Through the years my taste and perspectives have changed. Authors and topic choices that I once enjoyed I no longer find interesting and in some cases don't even agree with! Truthfully when I was in high school I didn't even enjoy reading and English was my least favorite subject. If you would have told me 35 years ago that I would one day enjoy reading and have a passion to write I would have said never in a million years. But I have learned, never say never ! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil shares some personal examples of various writers and books and movies that have given him insight about himself and his own growth.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He writes, "If it's true that we're like the characters in the books we read, the obvious implication is that connection with the author or the writing helps you to form your writing voice. Instead of merely enjoying a novel, what would it be if you paused to ask?"</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">* <em>Which character mirrors me?</em></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><em>* What can I learn about myself?</em></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><em>* Which characters do I dislike the most? Which ones anger me?</em></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to say, "When you read, whether fiction or nonfiction, those authors speak words that penetrate your heart. They nudge you toward growth and improvement. They stir you intellectually. They motivate you to act." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Cecil finishes off this chapter by sharing some more personal experiences in writing. He writes, "Today I'm grateful for all the writers from Victor Hugo to Henri Nouwen. They helped me discover my voice."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for this chapter is: "I find my voice through understanding others."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism # 14: " I find my voice </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> through understanding others"</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong></strong></span><br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-4605493384212897442012-09-15T20:55:00.001-07:002013-03-01T07:46:59.160-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 15 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 15</span> ~ EMBRACING YOUR VOICE ~ </span><span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 13 </span><span style="font-size: large;">~</span></h4>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">While reading and reflecting on this chapter a thought came to my mind. It's more like a quote. It goes like this: "Writing is recording our voice on paper." In other words, writing is like using a pen as your mic and the paper as the recording device. I Think I just made up my first Aphorism! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Writing is so much more than just learning basic principles, it's really about expressing oneself and showing the world who you are. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil writes, "Think of your writing voice as <em>your</em></span><em> </em><span style="font-size: large;">natural way of producing words. You have a texture, a sound, and a rhythm that's unique to you, and it's your power source." He goes on to say, "On paper you may exhibit your true self more than you're aware."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">He shares that, "If you write something that's generated from your inner self, you are connected with the material. Readers can lose themselves in your prose. One writer says that it turns readers from spectators into participants." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil says that when he is asked to show someone how to discover their natural voice his advice is to tell them to write about what stirs their emotions. He says, "If you combine that with good writing techniques, you have a good start." When Cecil is asked by someone how to discover their true voice his response is, "I don't know how. Even if I did, the emphatic word is <i>discover.</i> If I show you, you're not discerning and seeking. You're merely following my direction, and I may be wrong. You have to find your own way; however, I can offer you a few suggestions."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">He goes on to write, "What I tell them is simple: Be as natural as possible--but be correct. People need to able to <i>hear</i> you--the authentic you. Finding your voice is like being on a sacred quest. Respect your search because your voice is a gift from God that's unique to you."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil gives this advice,"If you want to find your voice, your goal is to journey toward wholeness--which is what life is about anyway.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Honoring your voice involves self acceptance and self love" </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">There are four important questions Cecil encourages writers to ask themselves before starting to write: </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1. <i>What do I want to write?</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>2. What issues or deep concerns do I have?</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>3. What are the unresolved issues of my life?</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>4. Is my writing honest?</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">He says, "To ask such questions opens you to possible solutions or directions you hadn't previously considered. You don't have to think like the people among whom you work, recreate, or worship. You're responsible to be honest with yourself. If you're honest with yourself, your writing will reflect that."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to share some experiences that had brought about major changes in his life. He ends this chapter by sharing this statement. "The more comfortable you are being who you have become, the easier it is to write with your voice."</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Once again there is so much to glean from this book. My hope is to give you a glimpse and encourage you to read it for yourself.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for this chapter is: "My voice expresses who I am, it waits for me to discover and embrace it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Aphorism # 13: "My voice expresses who I am,</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> it waits for me to discover and embrace it."</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-26711527039639398262012-09-14T21:24:00.001-07:002013-03-01T07:51:32.014-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 14 ~<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 14</span> ~ HONORING YOUR VOICE ~ <span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 12</span> ~</span></h4>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil has previously talked about needing to write with our own voices and to make the words on the page sound like ourselves. "If you write with your distinctive voice, readers will know who you are." He says, "People who know me say that when they read my prose, they can hear me talking casually to them." </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil writes, "For excellence in writing, your words on paper need to sound as if you're having a simple, direct conversation with the reader. And it doesn't matter which genre you use or whether it's fiction or nonfiction. Your voice is your voice."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Although the style and subject matter change, the voice doesn't. The only time Cecil says your voice should not sound like your own is when you are ghostwriting for someone else.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">This reminds me of a young lady I know who is enrolled in a program run by a Christian author/speaker. The purpose of the program is to teach her how to speak publicly and write books about her love for God. Although it sounds very noble and exciting I can't help but wonder who she will sound like when she's finished. Will she still sound like herself or like the author? </span><span style="font-size: large;">Will she write and speak with authenticity or will she become programed, no longer having a sense of her own identity? I guess time will tell. I hope most of all she will reflect Christ in her, the hope of glory.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil shares further thoughts on this topic. He says,"Too many writers have little respect for their own sound. You may feel you have to imitate someone else, become more erudite, or use strong words to give you authority. Resist that. Work at sounding like the best possible version of yourself."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">He goes on to say,"Readers choose certain authors the same way they select their friends-- on the basis of personality--or the sound of the author's words in print. All humans have a circle of people who like them and want to be around them. You also have those who don't like you, avoid you, or can't relate to you. That's the same as your readership." </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I've heard it said that at least 10 percent of the population will not like you no matter what you do. At least you'll have 90% that do!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"If you're like the average person," Cecil writes, " you want to have more friends--and as a writer, that refers primarily to buyers and readers of your writing." </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">After sharing a few examples of his own experiences in writing Cecil says,"No matter how much some editors or other writers may not like your writing, you'll attract those who will. You'll draw people into your writing </span><span style="font-size: large;">circle the same way you do in your friendship circle." </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">There is so much more teaching in this chapter than I can possibly post so I would like to finish off with this final paragraph by Cecil.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">He writes, "No one can teach you to write with your true voice. We instructors can only provide the atmosphere or setting that honors the process and encourages you to strive to hear your inner voice. Please remember this: The true voice is the heart of good writing. It's more than techniques or the ability to write in more than one genre. It's the ability to accept your voice as valuable and to use it."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">This message from Cecil is filled with encouragment, grace and a</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> grace-filled environment for us to grow as writers! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for this chapter is: "The more I know who I am and like who I am, the truer my writing voice and the more faithfully I honor that voice."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism # 12: "The more I know who I am </strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> and like who I am</span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> The truer my writing voice and</span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> <strong> the more faithfully I honor that voice."</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-42724119937704047322012-09-13T22:43:00.003-07:002013-03-01T07:56:16.865-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 13 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 13</span> ~ GETTING LOST IN THE FLOW ~ <span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 11</span> ~</span></h4>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In yesterday's posting we talked about inspiration and learning to write whether you feel inspired or not! We also touched on learning to write in the flow. Today Cecil takes us a little deeper into getting lost in the flow.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil writes, "Occasionally someone writes or talks about being in the flow or moving into the zone. Despite all their explanations (or inability to explain), they imply this is the kind of writing that seems to create itself."</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He goes on to share, "I'd say it another way: It happens when your writing doesn't pass through a conscious mind filter. You bypass obstructions or yells from your inner critic, and your fingers move smoothly, confidently over the keyboard."</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Although Cecil admits he is no expert, he says that he does experience that surge of words now and then, and in his words, certainly more often than he did in his early days. "When I get lost in the flow", Cecil says, "time has no meaning. I'm hardly aware of anything except the thoughts that rush through my brain and end up on the computer screen."</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil makes it very clear that this "flow" is not some kind of hypnotic state, nor is it what some would call <i>automatic writing. </i>He </span><span style="font-size: large;">is very aware of what he is writing and is highly energized. Unlike automatic writing which is described as, "information coming directly from God or some unknown spiritual source." He goes on to say, "The information comes from within, and it comes out sounding exactly like me. And I like the result."</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When I read the previous paragraph, I have to admit a picture came to me of Cecil sitting in a lotus position, humming as he emptied his mind, closing his eyes, pen in hand, placing it on paper waiting for the automatic writing to begin. I had to smile and giggle to myself for the simple reason that image would never come to reality because, that image does not fit Cecil's personality, character or beliefs. If you happen to read this Cecil, I hope you laughed too!!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">After sharing some interesting stories Cecil had when writing in the flow and after analyzing his experiences, he also shares a few things he has learned. I've taken the liberty to condense them.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">First, when writing he has an intense inner clarity.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Second, t</span><span style="font-size: large;">ime is not even in his awareness.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Third, there is an inner calmness, perhaps serenity.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Fourth, he is completely immersed and fully concentrating on what he is writing.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Finally, Cecil learned not to depend on such experiences.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">He goes on to say that he doesn't try to make them take place or manipulate his emotions. "In fact", he says "it seems to come when I stop trying to control the pace." </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">"But best of all", Cecil says, "the flow comes when I'm ready. That means I've prepared myself with what I want to write and know my material. I tend to go through inner struggles first until that magical kind of release. That's flow."</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for this chapter is: " I can't make the flow happen, but I can be prepared to embrace it when it does."</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow,</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">God Bless,</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism # 11: "I can't make the flow happen, </strong></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> But I can be prepared to embrace it when it does." </strong></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-87461936334305843752012-09-12T22:20:00.001-07:002013-03-01T08:01:05.724-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ DAY 12 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 12</span> ~ WAITING FOR INSPIRATION ~ <span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 10 </span>~</span></h4>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When I say the word "Inspiration", a sense of well being and inner peace floods my mind and fills my heart. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Cecil shares an example of experiencing inspiration while getting ready to shut down his computer so he could go out and work in his flower garden. He says, "Just then, an idea flashed for a chapter in this book. Instead of rushing outside, I turned to my keyboard, opened a new document, and began to type."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil writes, "The words gushed from paragraph to paragraph. I paused a few times to rethink ideas, but within an hour I had completed a full draft of a major article. I could polish it later. In the meantime, I felt calm and peaceful, even though I wouldn't say God inspired me. And it wasn't that powerful, unconscious experience that I would call "writing in the flow."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to say, "I believe in divine inspiration, but I don't know how to describe it". In the New Testament, a Greek word that appears only in 2 Timothy 3:16 is usually translated inspiration (theopneustos), but it means, "God breathed."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As I mentioned at the beginning of this post, when reading and thinking about this inspiring chapter, I am reminded of many times when I am just about to go to sleep at night or when I first wake in the morning a thought or an idea will come to me. I have even woke in the middle of the night with an idea thinking that I would remember it in the morning only to find that I could not remember what it was about and regretting that I had not taken the time to get up and jot at least an outline of the idea. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I believe this is a form or inspiration. I have read articles on this topic that say when we are just about to go to sleep or wake up we are most in tuned to inspiration whether it is Divine or simply our own thoughts. Some experts call it the Alpha State. It's when we are at our most relaxed state. I have found while driving in the car or taking a walk also gives me the opportunity to open myself to ideas and inspirations. We are not distracted by the business of everyday life.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil writes, "Think of inspiration as a powerful compulsion to write something that's accompanied by an inner sense of how to write it. Everything seems to flow easily and after you've composed your chapter you say, "It almost wrote itself."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He goes on to say, "Think of inspiration as a gift that God occasionally (perhaps rarely) sends your way. You don't have any supreme spiritual awareness or sense of being under divine control. In those powerful pleasurable moments, your full concentration remains on the words that flow through your head and into your fingertips and on to the screen."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"If you work on your craft and write regularly", Cecil says, "you develop whatever talent you have. The more you use what you have, the greater your improvement." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> I can relate to the above statement. Several years ago I decided I wanted to try my hand at singing solo. I grew up singing with my family at public gatherings but had never song solo. Although I new I could cary a tune I still needed to develop my singing voice. I took vocal lessons and purchased a sound system with a mic. A mic was very helpful for me because I do not have a strong voice. After a few months of voice lessons and practicing I was able to sing my first solo! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Writing is the same. It takes practice and time to develop your skills. Connecting with other writers that can give you advice and encouragment, along with reading good books, such as Cecil's, can go a long way to help you develop your gift.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for this chapter is: " I work hard at my craft. I don't always get inpsired, but I finish my work."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until Tomorrow,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">God Bless,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism # 10 : "I work hard at my craft. </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> I don't always get inpsired,</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> but I finish my work."</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-75632890171509114562012-09-11T21:12:00.001-07:002013-03-03T15:24:27.050-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ Day 11 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 11</span> ~ WEAKNESSES-OR GIFTS? ~ <span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 9</span> ~</span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After sharing a few stories, Cecil writes, " Think about your different strengths and weaknesses. Let's start with the premise that the two terms are opposite sides of the same issue. Your power is also your drawback. "</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to say, "Here's how it works with me. One of my strengths is <em>clarity</em>. When people read my writing, I don't want them to ask, What does that mean? (I didn't say I was perfect at this, but it is something for which I strive.)"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After sharing some further stories about himself, Cecil writes, " I'm extremely transparent--and that's on purpose. Here's a saying I wrote years ago and repeat it regularly: </span><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>I would rather be disliked for who I am than to be admired for who I'm not."</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I think this is another quote to post on the fridge! In my view this quote is the epidemy of not only writing with authenticity, but living authentically as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil says, "I write with <em>heart,</em> I've heard that term from editors since the early days of my writing career. <em>And it is a gift." </em></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He goes on to say<em>, "</em>I often tell students, I can teach techniques, but I can't teach heart. I can encourage you to open up, but you must be willing to show your true self on the page."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After sharing some very personal details of his life, Cecil makes this statement. "In everything I've written so far in this book, I've tried to be as open as I know how. Part of that purpose is to urge you to do the same." Cecil asks these questions:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> What specific lack or inadequacies do you feel?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> What can you do to make those needs your strengths?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> What gifts do you have? (All of us have talents.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> What are the weak sides of those gifts?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> What weaknesses do you have that you can turn around and </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> accept as your special abilities?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He goes further to say, "As I examine my talents as a writer, I'm convinced they come out of my weaknesses." </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil continues on by writing, "For the past decade, I've learned to value my uniqueness and to lovingly accept the parts of myself that I once ignored or disliked. That's part of my journey toward wholeness." </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Truly words of wisdom to live by and truthfully in my opinion, only time can bring about this kind of wisdom. It reminds me of a statement I once heard a well know TV evangelist say, "There is no drive through break through". </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In my view, I believe it takes time to mature and learn to embrace our weakness and strengths. I guess we are like aged cheese or fine wine, it just gets better with time! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil shares a heart breaking story of loosing his home to a fire, and the death of a son-in-law in the same tragedy and how people came to help in his time of need. He says of the lesson he learned, </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"It helped me convert my need into my strength: <em>If I give to others what I wish to receive from them, I am blessed</em> <em>or edified </em>(or choose your own adjective) <em>by my actions</em>. Something mystical and powerful transpires over a period of time."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He finishes this chapter by saying, "I used my weakness as strength, and in the end, I received the love and affirmation I needed."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">" I'll say it stronger. In the Bible you can read the Golden Rule. Jesus said, " Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you." That's how your weaknesses become your strengths. What ever you want or need, give it to others."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sounds to me like the old saying, "have a need, sow a seed." When we give of our time or resources to help others we soon find ourselves being blessed in the process, whether its naturally or supernaturally. I believe it's like a spiritual law, one of grace and mercy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for this chapter is: "I use my gifts to help others. I also give to others what I want to receive."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Until Tomorrow.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism # 9: " I use my gifts to help others.</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> I also give to others what I want to receive."</strong></span></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: large;"></span></em><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-47550716245431088392012-09-10T19:31:00.003-07:002013-03-03T15:27:59.418-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ Day 10 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~<span style="font-size: small;">Day 10</span>~HONORING YOUR INNER CRITIC~<span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 8</span>~</span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In this chapter Cecil presses in even deeper on the topic of the Inner Critic, only this time it's from the perspective of what he calls honoring. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Let's think some more about that censorious voice." writes Cecil. "For example when you were small, you developed a conscience or a voice that said, "Fire burns, Don't touch". If you jump off the top step, you'll get hurt. You listened (or didn't), and today you know those warnings are correct."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to say, "That influence is constantly with you and never stops working. It's purpose is to keep you safe. In childhood, safety meant not getting hurt; in maturity, safety focuses on protective, inner issues. Isn't it possible that the insistent editor in your writing may be doing the same thing for you that your conscience does? The criticism may not always be correct, but it deserves your attention."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As I read through this chapter, I am reminded of other teachings and perspectives I have read on this topic. Some writers and teachers encourage us to quiet ourselves asking the question, "Is this the voice of God speaking to my heart or are these my own thoughs?" I have heard it said that our intuitive/creative side is the side of our brain that is more open to listening to the spirit of God. The logical/reasoning side is more in tune to listening to oneself. Acknowledging and working between the two is probably the most effective.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil says, "Many can't seem to make peace with the interior editor and struggle endlessly. When I feel the conflict going inside my head, I say one sentence to myself. Occasionally, I have to say it several times, but it works: " I write creatively, and I edit analytically." </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to share other interesting stories and examples of how he has come to work with and nurture his inner critic. He says the biggest discovery he made--which sounds simple but quite revolutionary to him: "<em>It's much easier to edit a page of writing than it is to edit a blank screen</em>."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil finishes the chapter by writing, "These days when that irritating voice speaks to me, I stop writing and talk gently to myself. It's all right. Today you're feeling a bit anxious or insecure, but if you'll be patient and let me finish, I'll help you slash as much of the manuscript as you like. For me it works."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for today is: I write creatively, and I edit analytically."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> Aphorism: #</strong> <strong>8 "I write creatively,</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> And I edit analytically."</strong></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-69441840891310273502012-09-09T19:43:00.001-07:002013-03-03T15:30:47.343-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ Day 9 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 9</span> ~ YOUR INNER CRITIC ~ <span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 7</span> ~</span></h4>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The topic for the next two chapters, Cecil will be talking about what he describes as <strong>The Inner Critic.</strong> After reading through these chapters, one soon realizes that this topic not only can apply to writing but one could also experience this in singing, public speaking and pretty much everything on a public level to some degree!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil shares a story of his first days of pushing to become published and how they almost became his last. He says, "I felt as if two voices screamed at me--at the same time--and pounded my brain with contradictory messages. One way to explain this to myself is to use the dichotomy of right brain verses left brain."</span><span style="font-size: large;">He writes, "The two adversaries warred against each other and neither respected the other. My right brain, filled with wonderful, exciting, creative ideas nudged me. Go for it, Cec. Great stuff. I love it. You can do it, Yes,Yes!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to say, "The left brain snarled and tapped my shoulder. </span><span style="font-size: large;">This is garbage. No one will ever want to read this. Why would an editor pay you money for this tripe?"</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Although Cecil fought his negative voice he discovered the more he fought it the louder the interior volume. He wrote and published articles but the voice still screamed, but he kept on. But even after selling several books, Cecil discovered "the incessant screaming inside my head" didn't stop.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">To know that someone as gifted and as seasoned a writer/author as Cecil experienced a trial like this should give all of us that are either starting out or are in our infancy stages of writing, singing, public speaking, playing an instrument or what ever it is we are learning a sigh of relief! We are not alone. Here I thought it was the devil! </span><span style="font-size: large;">Cecil also shares an example of a time while he was struggling he mentally screamed in his head "Get thee behind me Satan,"and kept on writing. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">After reading books from the experts on the topic and even following some of their advice, and not finding it to be the best advice, Cecil came to his own conclusion. He writes, "I don't believe in ignoring the internal editor; I do believe there is a time to listen to it. If you're open to every part of yourself--and I hope you will be--you can teach your right brain and your left to hug each other and work in harmony."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I would have to agree with Cecil's perspective and advice. There is two old sayings I've come to believe hold truth and wisdom </span><span style="font-size: large;">to apply when struggling with the inner thoughts. The first one is,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"If it doesn't feel right, it isn't". The other, "Your heart knows the truth before your head is willing to admit it". I don't just apply this to my writing but to other aspects of my life in general when I seem to be having that inner struggle. As a believer I find it comforting to know that I can take it to the Author and Finisher of my faith, seeking His counsel.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil finishes off this chapter with some more experiences that he had with this issue and shares these words of wisdom. "I now listen to my internal wisdom. Why consider the internal editor an enemy or an nuisance? Why not engage that part as a helper? Why fight a part of myself that wants to help? "</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It still took Cecil a long time before he could consider that voice as a friend--but he's says that came in time. "Now", Cecil says, "I trust and honor the left part of my brain as much as I do the right side." </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for today is : "My inner critic can be my friend, so I honor and trust that voice."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> <strong>Aphorism # 7:</strong> <strong>"My Inner critic can be my friend,</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> so I honor and trust that voice.</strong></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-27486293167681519972012-09-08T19:22:00.001-07:002013-03-03T15:35:01.606-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ Day 8 ~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 8</span> ~ LIKING YOURSELF ~ <span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 6</span> ~</span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As I read through this chapter there is an underlying word and message that I can see, or should I say sense, between the lines. The word and message is <strong>Grace.</strong> I love that word and I love that message! Lets see if you see and sense the same thing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil writes, "Instead of seeking to modify and reshape your personality, I plead with you to accept, value, and nurture yourself. Why don't you become more fully who you already are? In the process, you mature and your writing improves."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">"To carry this further," Cecil says, "doesn't it make sense that the better you know yourself, the better you write? Thus the more honestly you write, the closer you come to knowing who you really are."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I find the statements Cecil makes incredibly encouraging. Not only to be embraced in writing but in life as a whole. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes the world's ways may lean towards being programed, somewhat like clones. Our own uniqueness is seen as narcissistic or from a religious point of view it may be seen as rebellious. Instead of an appreciation for our individuality and our gifts as being recognized as God given, we are encouraged to get with the program or to get out. But as a believer in the Christian faith, I believe God created us to be authentic and to live authentically. To write with authenticity.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil says that for the past decade he has encouraged writers to value their uniqueness. He urges us to embrace "our divinely given personality and ability." He encourages us to get excited about our uniqueness, and use that knowledge to make ourselves an increasingly effective writer.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to advise us as writers to acquire skills to do our job efficiently and to honor our ability and to enjoy being who we are. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He says, "Perhaps your weaknesses may not be the negatives you think they are."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He writes, "If you learn to capitalize on who you are and appreciate who you are, you're on your way to becoming the best writer you can become."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil expresses that he does not advocate rigid self-discipline. "I tried that". He goes on to say, "For years, I held to tight schedules, refused to allow deviations, and castigated myself when I failed. I've since learned that true self-discipline flows out of gentleness and self-respect."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He gives an illustration of what he means. He writes, "People call me transparent, real, and honest and I'm getting more that way all the time. I haven't always been vulnerable on paper. During my first years of writing, my initial attempts were a bit pompous and condescending." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">After sharing a few more examples Cecil closes the chapter with this wonderful advice: </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"Only by knowing who you are and compassionately embracing yourself can you grow as an individual and as a writer. If you relentlessly pursue self-understanding, accept your own experiences as authentic, and are willing to compose from that truer, deeper part of yourself, you generate the kind of writing that comes across as authentic. Honest. True."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Sounds like true grace and grace-filled advice to me !!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for today is: "The better I know myself, the better I write. The better I like myself, the better writer I become."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism # 6: "The better I know myself,</strong></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> the better I write. </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> The better I like myself,</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: large;"> the better writer I become."</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6761999474784260721.post-20002493770459306662012-09-07T21:00:00.003-07:002013-03-03T15:38:41.406-08:00THE 30 DAY WRITING CHALLENGE ~ Day 7~<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ <span style="font-size: small;">Day 7</span> ~ THE CONCEIT OF WRITING ~ <span style="font-size: small;">Chapter 5</span> ~ </span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have to say reading this chapter and writing on it has left me feeling a little uneasy. Why? Because its about conceit. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Cecil puts it this way, "I'm so full of myself I think the world can hardly wait to read me". </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">On one level Cecil says that's true. He also goes on to say,"That doesn't mean it's painless or easy. Nothing I've ever done has tormented me more than writing."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil goes on to say, "At times the stress level has become almost unbearable, especially when I've faced a self-imposed deadline. He admits even his blood pressure will be higher than normal when he is uptight because the writing doesn't flow, or the words gush out but they're crooked and tangled and different from the way they sounded inside his head." </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I can really relate to what Cecil is saying. Sometimes the words just flow onto the pages and I can hardly keep up with my witty mind and other times I just can't seem to get my thoughts to make any sense on paper at all. I guess it's part of being a writer. And here I thought it was just hormones! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But despite the torment, Cecil has made a living at writing for nearly thirty years and he says,"I can't think of anything I would rather do, even if I lived to be 150." </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As I read the back cover of this wonderful book I was amazed to read that Cecil has been a New York Times best author and a international speaker. He has also written or co-written more than 120 books, including the bestseller <em>90 minutes in Heaven</em> (with Don Piper). </span><span style="font-size: large;">Now in my book I think that's something to brag about or better yet, be conceited about! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But I think Cecil is to modest to let any of that go to his head. You see, he makes sure to mention the negative side. He says, "If I write badly and everyone knows it, I lose face. And for some of us, that's the worst punishment--being ridiculed or rejected by our peers." </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As I reflect on Cecil's comments it brings back some painful memories myself. It's one of the reasons that I took time away from writing and being involved in any formal kind of ministry. I know the pain of rejection and ridicule, both as a writer and as a editor. It's hard when you feel you have done your best in making important decisions and you have the best of intentions only to find out people want to assume the worst of you or pass judgment on you without giving you the opportunity to defend or explain oneself. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But thankfully through it all I have found healing and the desire to write again. I am discovering that what we do we do for the audience of one, the Author and Finisher of our faith!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cecil brings the chapter to a well rounded conclusion. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He writes, "I would like the words of this book to help, encourage, exhort, and entertain you. I yearn for all writers (including you) to accept their ambition and conceit, and I want to help. In the process, however, remains the deep-seated search to know who you are and to be more aware of your motives and attitudes."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">"From my perspective", Cecil says, "there are few problems with writing. Anyone of normal intelligence can learn the craft. The problems are human. Much of what writers may refer to as "writing problems" are problems within themselves. They think to highly of themselves, or they see themselves to lowly; they fear being honest, lack courage, or are unable to face what they might learn about themselves." </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">All I can say to that is ..."touche Cecil ...you're right!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Aphorism for today is: "I am conceited enough to write. I am enthusiastic enough to believe I have things to say.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until tomorrow.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bless you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Terilyn</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aphorism #5: " I am conceited enough to write.</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> I am enthusiastic enough to believe</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> I have things to say"</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12061475523094972828noreply@blogger.com0