More than Writers

As authors, we’re told that nothing is more important, these days, than having a platform. Indeed, I read recently that, no matter how well written your book may be, publishers are unlikely to offer you a contract unless you have a foot in the door of marketing. Which reminds me of two – nearly three - conversations I had yesterday. UNHEARD? When it comes to speaking out, or seeking attention, there can be little more debilitating circumstances than sitting in the dentist’s chair, with your mouth wide open to accommodate the drill or other instruments. ‘Ouch’ was my response, when the hygienist leant her magnifying mirror too heavily against my gum. But no sound came out. UNSEEN? Conversation in the waiting room, when my husband went for his treatment, was considerably less muted. We were three women: the receptionist, myself and a middle-aged woman who had brought her step-mother for treatment. The subject under discussion was the matter of old age. ‘My step-mo...

It's happening again. My fingers hesitate over the keys and icy shivers slide down my spine. I wait for words to come and when they do I feel afraid to share them. They feel too raw, too real, too exposing somehow. And I feel too vulnerable, my former courage melting into puddles at my feet.  To publish or not to publish? That is the question. Maybe you've been there, too, when writing an article, blog post, social media update or part of a work in progress?  Suddenly we freeze, yield to feelings of unworthiness, people-approval issues and wondering if we've even heard aright .  Discernment is a tricky thing. I've walked transparency's path many times in trying to stay faithful to what I believe God wants me to write, and it doesn't get any easier. All those what ifs? spring to mind, inhibiting the flow. Certain topics are considered to be off limits in polite society. For instance, it's not good dinner party etiquette to talk about money, politics...