Edie Melson's Blog, page 6

A Course Correction That Changed the Path of My Writing Life for the BEST

by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
I’ve been attending writing conference events for over a quarter of a century. And I’m going to let you in on a secret—for the vast majority of those years—my reasons for going were wrong. I struggled with that declaration—wrong. I wanted to soften it and say my reasons were off base or not exactly the best. But the truth is, they were wrong, and no amount of softening will change that.
Let me see if any of these statements sound familiar and I think you’ll understand why I kept that word. These were things I’d share with my husband and some close friends before attending:“This year I’m going to land an agent.”“This year I’m not going to come home without a contract.”“This year I’m going to meet with so-and-so and make the connection that will lead to the next level.”
Do you hear what all these statements had in common—ME—or more specifically I. I went to writing conferences for years with the agenda of accomplishing the goals I’d set for my writing career. 
But let’s back up a minute and take a look at where my urge to write came from. Was this career my idea? Far from it! 
However, I’ve always been a writer. If you don’t believe me, you can ask my mother. She’ll tell you I’ve been writing ever since I could crawl to a white wall with a red crayon. And I pretty much stayed a writer growing up—writing my first novel in 8th grade in a purple ink pen. But I never considered writing with God until 1994. I was sitting in church one evening and felt a strong call from God. I felt like He clearly called me to stop writing only for fun, by myself, and write with Him. 
I remember actually looking up from the baby I held in my arms and glaring at the ceiling. In my mind, I answered Him, “Are You serious???? I have a new baby, a toddler, and a preschooler. I have no degree and no clue how to make this happen!!!”
God didn’t answer my objections, He only repeated His call in my heart. He had chosen me to write with Him. I let out a sigh big enough for my husband to give me a questioning look, but I answered God in my mind. “If You’re crazy enough to ask, and able to make it happen, count me in. I will write for You.”
Notice how even in that initial conversation, I misquoted God to myself. He called me to write WITH Him, and I took that to mean I was to write FOR Him. That’s a small distinction, but one that ultimately led me off God’s path for years. 
It’s also a distinction that leads to striving, unmet expectations, exhaustion, and finally, frustration. I found myself in this dark place and I asked God how I could fix it. He sent me to Matthew 11:28 - 30. 
"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
I don’t know about you, but I love verse 28—where Jesus promises rest—but the remainder of the passage always made me want to groan out loud. The last thing I wanted was to exchange one yoke for another. But even though my attitude wasn’t the best, I trusted that God sent me here for a good reason, so I dug in deeper to figure out how a yoke could actually be easy. And what I found has made this one of my favorite verses.
3 Things I Learned about My Writing From Matthew 11:28 - 30
1. I discovered that the yoke that Jesus is referring to in that passage is personal. In biblical times the yokes that oxen wore were carved from wood to fit a specific animal. They weren’t interchangeable. That’s the way it is with the work God has for each of us to do—it’s specifically designed for me and for you. 2. The second thing I learned was that oxen almost always worked in pairs. The owner would put a young untrained ox with an older and wiser one to help them learn how to manage the load. God does that for us—only the wiser one we’re paired with is Jesus. He doesn’t just design the yoke specifically for us, He also joins us in the work He’s called us to do. We don’t have to take on the burdens we’re carrying alone. 3. The last thing I learned was about the root of the word yoke. It’s the same word used as the root for the word for the balance on a scale. This tells us that the yoke God has designed for us is fair and just. 
I know that a lot of you are caught on this path. You’ve told me in messages and comments as I’ve posted the prayers I’ve shared in our Facebook group. Many of you have asked how I know exactly what You’re dealing with and the answer to that is simple. I’ve been where You are.
What has helped me get off that path and onto a different one? The same thing that can help you—God’s word. As believers who write, it’s God’s word that will fuel our journey and our inspiration. Seeking God through His word should be a regular, priority, discipline each of us practice. We don’t go to God’s word just after we’ve exhausted our own strength. We go regularly and deeply to drink from the well of His inspiration—His word.
Now it's your turn to share. How do you stay deeply rooted in God's strength when you write? Be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings, Edie
TWEETABLEA Course Correction That Changed the Path of My Writing Life for the BEST from @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Edie Melson is a woman of faith with ink-stained fingers observing life through the lens of her camera. No matter whether she’s talking to writers, entrepreneurs, or readers, her first advice is always “Find your voice, live your story.” As an author, blogger, and speaker she’s encouraged and challenged audiences across the country and around the world. Her numerous books reflect her passion to help others develop the strength of their God-given gifts and apply them to their lives. Connect with her on her website, through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

3 Reasons the Writing Life Makes Us Cry

by Cindy K. Sproles @CindyDevoted
Well, that's an odd subject. Isn't it? I realize I'm a bit unorthodox, but seriously, it's a question all authors need to examine. When does a writer cry?
As I've grown older, I've become increasingly reflective. Perhaps that's just what aging does, and though I cannot really complain about my writing career, there have been times when I've "had a moment." If I've experienced these "moments," then perhaps others have as well, so we should probably address the tears of a writer and consider whether they are tears we need to shed.
When Does a Writer Cry?
1. I can't land an agent: If I were going to place a number value on writer's tears, I'd say this one rates at the top. There are times it's hard to separate our desires and dreams from the reality of the publishing world. I often think that at conferences, we should put a star by the items in the appointment list according to timing or need. Do not make an appointment until… So many times, new writers walk into the publishing arena expecting that step one is "get an agent," when in all actuality, this is one of the last steps in the writing process. New writers often lack this information, and honestly, many times, the average writer knows but refuses to acknowledge it. So, when a writer leaves a conference without the blessing of an agent, disappointment sets in along with frustration and sometimes tears. What's the answer? Plain and simple. An agent cannot sell what you have not yet written. Not only that, but what you have written must be publication-ready. The agent's job is to sell a finished product. They can't do anything for you until that step happens. Their job is not to make your work ready for a higher level of publication. That is your responsibility. Learn the craft. Hire content or developmental editors to help you polish your work. It should be as "clean" (error-free, and not just in spelling and commas, but also free of plot holes, character inconsistencies, and hold a solid plot arc and character arcs) as possible. This work is on the writer, and it's hard work. Do the work. Produce the best finished manuscript you can, and then begin to seek an agent. Done in this order, there’s no need to shed tears.
2. I'm never going to see publication: Yep, guilty. I've pulled this one (without the tears, but wholeheartedly with the self-pity). True story. I stood at a conference in 2016 with my sweet friend Dee Dee Parker. Now, if you don't know Dee Dee, then be aware that her spiritual gift is good, solid common sense, encouragement, and truth. After receiving my final rejection on my first novel while I was at the conference, I looked at Dee Dee and said, "I don't think I'm ever going to be published. I guess I'm not good enough to make the cut." Dee Dee took me by the shoulders and looked me square in the eye.
"You don't seriously believe that, do you? IF you do, you aren't the child of God I thought you were." 
Wow, what a moment. Philippians 1:6 (ESV) came to mind. And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. I guess Dee Dee showed me that 1) my sights were misfocused, 2) I was impatient, 3) I didn't believe God had begun a good work in me that He would complete in His timing. I'll always be grateful for her gentle yet firm wake-up call. I straightened up and continued the call God had placed in me. Three months later, Mercy's Rain received a contract, and the book is still selling. We claim to believe in God's ways and timing, but we refuse to wait and allow HIM to bring His work in us to completion. Like Paul said (paraphrased, of course), keep on trucking—no point to waste good tears over what God is in control of.
3. God told me to write this, and it's gonna publish: Okay, I never doubt God's inspiration to a writer, but what I do sometimes doubt is the author's interpretation of that inspiration. Now, before you hang me, hear me out. Yes, I wholeheartedly believe that God calls us to write. Of course, He does. What I think happens is we hear that call, but we fail to ask Him for definition and guidance. We just jump on the horse, kick it, and run like a wildman with whatever incident or event we are in at the moment. Our lives are not easy. Christ assured us that when we choose Him, there will be hardships. Often, we cry out to God for help and expect His help to be a fix, when instead it's a way through the hardship.1 Corinthians 10:13 tells us (and I may take a little liberty here but I don’t think it’s out of context), 
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted (tried) beyond your ability, but with the temptation (trial) he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
Temptation, hardship, or difficult decision. It doesn't matter, God will not let you suffer it without providing you a way of escape so that you may be able TO ENDURE it. Sometimes what we are called to write is the way of escape for us, so that we can endure the difficulty. Many times, what we may feel we are called to write is not for publication but to get us through. Oh, and along the path, He prepares us (allows us to learn the craft of writing) so that the bigger picture can emerge. Tears might be appropriate here since we do need to fall at His feet and place every hurt, need, and desire in His hands. You may be offended at my words, but trust me when I say, pray over every work. Ask God for His hand of guidance and for clarity over what this piece is to be used for. He may surprise you. And by the way, if God means it to publish, it will publish in His timing, not yours. When we stop trying to do His job, step to the side, and do what we are called to do—WRITE! God manages the rest. He is, after all, very capable.
I realize this may seem a bit harsh. Please don't walk away feeling as though I'm mean. I'm not, but I never want someone else to feel the pains that I have felt in the past. I may not have shed tears over some of these things, but in my writing career, I have cried a river—things like disappointment, frustration, loneliness, fatigue. I'm not sure that there's a writer alive who hasn't experienced these things in some shape or form. However, if I can redirect your expectations, offer you some experienced advice, and then be there as encouragement. The criticism I'll take for this post will be well worth the effort.
My point is, tears are a valuable emotion. Use them in your writing toolbox. Trust your work into the hands of the Lord and not into the hands of man for the final decisions. He has called you to write, not to cry. He has gifted you with the talent of a writer. Now, take His gift and use it to the best of your ability.
TWEETABLE3 Reasons the Writing Life Makes Us Cry from @CindyDevoted on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Cindy K. Sproles is an author, speaker, and conference teacher. Having served for a number of years as a managing editor for Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas and Ironstream Media, Cindy now works as a mentor, coach, and freelance editor. She is the co-founder of Writing Right Author Mentoring Services with Lori Marett and she is the director of the Asheville Christian Writers Conference. Cindy is also the co-founder of Christian Devotions Ministries and WWW.CHRISTIANDEVOTIONS.US, as well as WWW.INSPIREAFIRE.COM. Her devotions are in newspapers and magazines nationwide, and her novels have become award-winning best-selling works. She is a popular speaker at conferences and a natural encourager. Cindy is a mountain girl, born and raised in the Appalachian mountains, where she and her husband still reside. She has raised four sons and now resorts to raising chickens where the pecking order is easier to manage. You can visit Cindy at WWW.CINDYSPROLES.COM or www.wramsforwriters.com.

Tinker, Tweak, Triumph: The Writing Life Is All About Strategy

by Larry J. Leech, II @LarryJLeechII
About five years ago, my son got me hooked on a game that pits two factions of ships against each other in a cosmic battle. I love games that involve strategy. This one features that, as well as quick thinking and more options than I can wrap my mind around. The complexity is exciting and, at times, overwhelming.
Much like writing.
I have tinkered, adjusted, and tweaked attack strategies, defense strategies, and flight patterns—hundreds of times. Each time I look for the best option or best result. 
Much like writing.
The excitement of pounding out a first draft often gives way to the grind of rewriting and rewriting some more. Sometimes to the point that a writer will either settle for something less than their best or, worse, give up. 
Fifteen years ago, I heard a best-selling novelist tell a critique group that he will often rewrite a scene 100 times. At the time, I balked at rewriting anything more than two or three times. That night changed my writing life. I thought, “If he is willing to do that, I shouldn’t complain about two or three rewrites.”
Since then, I have fussed numerous times over a single word or sentence for minutes, each time tweaking or changing something to make the point or the visual clearer. Finding the right word, the right phrase, the right sentence can feel like winning the lottery, or least what I think that may feel like. 
But ya gotta work at it. Try different words. Or change the order of words. Tinker with different ways you can show someone arching their brow, or walking across a room, or your protag running away from their antag. Like the game I now play, the possibilities are endless. Tinker. Tweak. Switch things around. Swap out words. Whatever it takes. Pluck away at the keyboard while you think. Or let your fingers fly across the keys while your brain comes up with different ideas.
A wise old man once said, “Do. Or do not. There is no try.”
Pick “do.” Don’t be one of the ones who “do not.” 
I have found that posting a sticky note with a catch phrase or a few words of encouragement near my computer helps keep me focused or provides a reminder to keep at it and never give up. If you are inclined to do that as well, here are a few that might help you:“Keep swimming, swimming, swimming.”
“Think Different”
“Is it in you?”
“No pain, no gain”
And my favorite:
“Just Do It”What word of encouragement can you share for other writers? Be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments section below!
TWEETABLETinker, Tweak, Triumph: The Writing Life Is All About Strategy from @LarryJLeechII on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Usually with a hot beverage nearby, Larry J. Leech II spends his days working with words—as a writing coach of award-winning authors, as well as Acquisitions Editor and Master Book Coach for Illumify Media. More than forty years ago, Larry started his career as a sportswriter in southwestern Pennsylvania where he covered prep sports, college sports, and the Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers. In 2004, after 2,300 published articles, Larry shifted to book publishing. Since that time, he has ghostwritten thirty books, edited more than 450 manuscripts, and coached hundreds of authors through the writing and publication process. For nearly two decades Larry has taught at numerous general market and inspirational conferences nationwide. When he has a minute, Larry likes to hang out on Facebook and Instagram. You can also find out more about him on his website: larryleech.com.

The Pyramid for Powerful Writing

by Martin Wiles @LinesFromGod
By volume, the largest pyramid in the world is the Great Pyramid of Cholula, located in Mexico. This monumental pyramid boasts a volume of 4.45 million cubic meters. This is almost twice the volume of the highest pyramid, the Great Pyramid of Giza. The Pyramid of Cholula is so large that it eventually became covered with vegetation and was built over. Now, it appears to be a natural hill topped by a church. The primary purpose of the Egyptian pyramids was to house the bodies of pharaohs and their possessions, providing protection for both in the afterlife. 
Writing pyramids are also critical. As writers, we aim for powerful writing. If we do a little editing, too, we want to help other writers realize dynamic writing as well. A better sentence or sentence structure. A more powerful word. A more impressive character arc or exciting plot. But how? A simple pyramid will help. 
Daily, I read sentences that lack zing. Many of them, I have written. Others are ones I’m editing for other writers. I appeal to my vocabulary, the built-in thesaurus in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Editor, and Grammarly. And, of course, Miriam Webster always avails herself. But I’m wasting my time if I don’t know the pyramid that will make the writing more powerful. My writing and the person’s devotion, article, or manuscript I’m editing will fall short. 
Rather than start at the bottom and work our way up, let’s start at the top and walk down, beginning with the most important words. 
The Writing Pyramid
The Vivid Verb
Of all the parts of speech, the verb is the most important. We must have one to have a sentence, but not all stand on equal footing. At the theater or on YouTube, the right word might not be that essential. After all, we can see what the screenwriter wants. But on paper, words help us see, and of those words, verbs sit on a glorious throne. Without vivid ones, writing slows almost to a halt.
John can walk to the store, but he can also hobble. Now, I see him with a limp and perhaps using a cane or crutches. I wonder what happened to him that put him in that position. An entire range of pictures dances through my mind. 
The Specific Noun 
Subjects (nouns) are also necessary for a sentence to exist. But, like verbs, all nouns are not of equal value. Common nouns are persons, places, or things. But proper nouns are specific persons, places, or things. 
The main character can own a large dog, or he can own a German Shepherd, Doberman, or Rottweiler. Our stories will paint a beautiful picture when the noun is specific and the verb is vivid. 
The Acting Adjective
Adjectives describe or modify our nouns. We won’t need many of them when we use vivid verbs and specific nouns, but they help dress up our sentences. 
The Announcing Adverb
Adverbs get a bad rap—and they are frequently overused. Some are necessary, but not the ones—often those ending in ly—that we use to prop up poor verbs and boring nouns. 
Adverbs that announce time and place (when, where) prove essential. However, we should replace the lyones that crutch a boring verb. A nurse can walk quietly into a patient’s room, but it’s better if she tiptoes. 
When we start at the top of the pyramid and scale our way down, we’ll write powerful fiction and nonfiction—and help others do the same.
TWEETABLEThe Pyramid for Powerful Writing from Martin Wiles (@LinesFromGod) on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Martin Wiles lives in Greenwood, SC, and is the founder of Love Lines from God. He is a freelance editor, English teacher, pastor, and author. He serves as Managing Editor for both Christian Devotions and Vinewords.net and is an instructor for the Christian PEN (professional editor’s network). Wiles is a multi-published author. His most recent book, Hurt, Hope and Healing: 52 Devotions That Will Lead to Spiritual Health, is available on Amazon. He and his wife are parents of two and grandparents of seven. He can be contacted at mandmwiles@gmail.com.

The Surprisingly Fun Benefit of Back-to-School Shopping for Writers

by Beth K. Vogt on @BethVogt
It’s back to school season, and you know what that means, right? It’s time to grab the oh-so-detailed shopping lists, head to the stores – they’re all boasting sales, right? – and fill the shopping carts to overflowing with the required school supplies. Paper, notebooks, and don’t forget the pens!
I miss back-to-school shopping. My kiddos are adults, some with kiddos of their own. Even so, I check the sales, wander the aisles, and toss a few boxes of crayons or markers, along with the notebooks or pens, into my cart. (Did I mention they were on sale?) It’s always good to have craft supplies on hand for my GRANDkiddos, right? And I can never have too many pens or too much paper. 
I see you nodding your heads out there, writer friends.
A couple of weeks ago, two of my GRANDgirls were over for the day. They mentioned they needed to go shopping for school things like index cards and highlighters and notebooks. 
Aha!
ME: “I have some of those in my office.”
GRANDGIRLS: “You do?”
ME: “Yep. You’re welcome to look around in the closet.”
Sound of their footsteps as they disappeared around the corner and up the stairs.
They came back with huge grins on their faces and announced they’d found everything they needed, along with a few other things. Cost to them? Nothing. Yes, it cost me something at one time, but the stuff had been in my closet for months, maybe even a couple of years. I’m thrilled they’re using it. The girls also came back a week later and asked to visit “Gigi’s store” again. (More like “Gigi’s stash.”) 
Yep. They both found some other things they could use. 
Happiness all around. 
“Beth,” you ask, “what’s your point?” 
It’s this: we’re writers. We love pens, paper, notebooks. Maybe like me, you enjoy the back-to-school shopping season and indulge in the sales. Do you share the wealth with your kiddos, grandkiddos, or even your neighbors? Do you contribute to your local store’s drive to collect school supplies for kids? The cost of school supplies add up—who can you help this year?
TWEETABLEThe Surprisingly Fun Benefit of Back-to-School Shopping for Writers from @BethVogt on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Beth K. Vogt believes God’s best often waits behind the doors marked “Never.” She’s authored 15 novels and novellas, both contemporary romance and women’s fiction. Beth is a Christy Award winner, an ACFW Carol Award winner, and a  RITA® finalist. Her newest contemporary romance novel, Dedicated to the One I Love, released June 20, 2023. Her novel Things I Never Told You, book one in her Thatcher Sisters Series by Tyndale House Publishers, won the 2019 AWSA Golden Scroll Award for Contemporary Novel of the Year. An established magazine writer and former editor of the leadership magazine for MOPS International, Beth blogs for Learn How to Write a Novel and The Write Conversation and also enjoys speaking to writers group and mentoring other writers. She lives in Colorado with her husband Rob, who has adjusted to discussing the lives of imaginary people. Connect with Beth at BETHVOGT.COM.

Need Writing Work? Network with Other Writers

by Lilka Raphael @Lilka_Raphael
Three Reasons for Writers to Connect with Writers
“Networking is not about just connecting people. It’s about connecting people with people, people with ideas, and people with opportunities.” – Michele Jennae
Even the most reclusive writers must associate with people. Though self-publishing may require less interaction with industry professionals, it still requires engagement with potential readers. Writing may be a solitary pursuit, yet to publish our work and build an audience requires that we meet, greet, and form relationships. Here are three reasons for introverted writers to network to gain work.
1. Perfect Your Craft
It is possible to gain the proficiencies necessary to become a successful writer on our own. However, it is less frustrating and easily accomplished when we learn via the expertise of other writers and editors. These individuals can clearly identify deficits that elude us. Professional associates of friends that have been vetted or recommendations from acquaintances are preferable to random searches on the internet. It’s ideal to have an arsenal of professionals to call on before we need them. Submitting our best work creates prospects for paid work.
2. Build Community
It is relatively easy to connect with professionals in the industry. Simply follow up by email with the people you meet at conferences and workshops. If that feels too formal, connect with them on social media by liking and commenting on their posts.
Sustaining these casual relationships expands our professional network. Follow the Facebook page of your favorite conference or writers club and connect with the attendees. The treasure trove of information graciously shared on these pages is priceless. Likewise, reciprocate by offering leads regarding publishers, editors, and resources when questions arise. Community is give and take. The more you offer, the more you will receive.
3. Build Your Brand
If you want to obtain work, it is vital that people know who you are and what you write. I spoke with an acclaimed author who responded to an editor she casually knew. The editor had a client in need of help to meet a deadline, and he knew that she wrote devotions. Her assistance on one project sparked a lucrative and lasting career. Opportunity may not always knock, but God uses people to open doors. We can’t walk through them if we remain isolated.
Networking can be as simple as engaging with the people that visit our sites. Our professional media accounts should reflect what we write, and if possible, why we write. It is the connectivity between individuals that allows our words to entertain, inspire, and heal. As writers, we should relate to others not merely through our words but with ourselves. 
Networking is not a dirty word. It is vital to our profession. If writers are to convey words that impact the world, we must wade away from the comfort of the shore.
When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” Luke 5:4 NIV
TWEETABLENeed Writing Work? Network with Other Writers from @Lilka_Raphael on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)]
A Florida native, Lilka Finley Raphael has been a licensed pharmacist for over thirty years. Her passions for writing, gardening, and photography prompted her to share her experiences and life lessons on her blogs B Is for Blessed and God, autism, & me. You can learn more about her at lilkaraphael.com
Lilka’s greatest achievements are her two adult sons who have flown the nest. Happily married for thirty-two years, she lives east of Atlanta with her husband, Rod. They now share their home with two German Shepherds—Holly and Ivy—and one naughty kitty, Moxie.

Adventuring in Utah Gave Me Insight into Important Writing Truths: 6 Things I learned about Writing at Capitol Reef

by Lynn H. Blackburn @LynnHBlackburn
Capitol Reef National Park is tucked between its more famous neighbors—Zion and Bryce to the West, Arches and Canyonlands to the East. It’s smaller, more niche, if you will, and often bypassed by travelers in a time crunch. 
But, y’all! This is a mistake! Capitol Reef is one of my all-time favorites!
We had two days at Capitol Reef, and as we planned the trip, I came across reviews for a backcountry 4x4 adventure to Cathedral Valley to see the Temples of the Sun and Moon. I was intrigued, but there were significant obstacles. They were located in a remote area and required the right vehicle to reach them. Not to mention that if we said yes to the tour, we’d be saying no to other things. After some discussion and further research, we decided to proceed. 
Y’all. I have no regrets. That afternoon became a highlight of our trip. I felt like I’d gotten to pull back the curtain and see something few others ever see. I stood beneath the rocks, and I was in awe of our Creator. I couldn’t stop thinking that those rocks have been there, silently worshipping God for thousands of years.
As I pondered the view, it reminded me of something only we writers know—when you’re willing to commit, invest the time and energy, and yes, take a few risks, the reward is an experience few will ever have. 
The 1% Experience
The area around Capitol Reef is so isolated that, although we know there were indigenous people there at one time (thanks to some cool petroglyphs), it’s believed they left the area sometime around 1300 AD. There hadn’t been a permanent settlement there in over 500 years when the first Mormon pioneers made their homes there in the late 1800s.
The extreme “out of the way” aspect of Capitol Reef is part of what has kept it from becoming as popular as many of the other national parks in the area. According to our guide, the Cathedral Valley is visited by only 1% of park visitors. Why? The only way to reach the Temples of Sun and Moon is to traverse 15+ miles of dirt roads that require a 4-wheel drive vehicle and extra high clearance. 
Most people don’t have those vehicles. Some people don’t want to drive a couple of hours on dirt roads, bumping along with sand everywhere, so that they can see some rocks. 
I get it. It isn’t for everyone. 
But they’re really cool rocks…
You can see where I’m going with this, right? 
Not everyone wants to write a book, a poem, a screenplay, or a memoir. They have zero interest in ever doing that. It’s a hard pass.
However, many people claim they want to write. They’ll say things like, “If I had time, I’d love to write a book.” Or, “Maybe when I retire I’ll finally write that story.” They may have great ideas, but they lack the passion and drive to undertake the necessary work to make them happen. 
Only a small percentage of people will ever write a book. Those who do know that they need several things.
Writing a Book Requires 6 Things From Us
1. Time. Just like it took time for us to see the temples, committing to the writing life means carving out the time. No one is going to give you the time. 
2. Commitment. Saying yes to writing means saying no to other things. You need to keep that in mind on the days when you really, really want to relax, but instead, you’re working on your manuscript. 
3. Effort. Going to see the 1% of places isn’t something you accidentally fall into. Neither is writing a book. I’ve never met anyone who woke up one day and discovered a manuscript, edited and formatted to perfection, sitting on their desktop just waiting for them to send it to an editor. It doesn’t work that way! 
4. Specialized Equipment. In the same way that the temples can’t be reached without the right vehicle, your writing dreams won’t be reached without “specialized equipment” either. I’m not talking about computers, writing software, or that fountain pen that you’re sure will make you five times more productive. No. I’m talking about the unique knowledge you’ll obtain as you study the craft, meet industry professionals, and connect to other authors. So many writers think they can skip this step, but this isn’t a luxury “extra” - this is a required resource to help you reach your goals. 
5. Guides are great. I’d be remiss if I didn’t point out that while some people rent their own four-wheel drive vehicles and visit the temples independently, having a knowledgeable guide made the experience more enjoyable. Our guide kept us from getting lost and showed us interesting sites that we would never have known were there, and drove like an F1 driver through some washes and took us through a river! In the same way, mentors, writing friends, blogs like The Write Conversation, writing groups like ACFW and Word Weavers, and writing conferences can guide you on your journey and make it more wonderful than it would be if you tried to go it alone. 
Going to Capitol Reef and choosing to see the Temples of the Sun and Moon didn’t make me special or better than people who skip that park. But it did mean that I was able to experience something few others do. 
In the same way, fully embracing your writing identity doesn’t make you better than people who don’t write. However, it does mean that if you’re willing to put in the work, you’ll have unique experiences that will leave you standing in awe of the Creator. You will get to create with God, something that not everyone gets to enjoy. You will, in your own way, worship God with words. 
And, I believe you’ll never regret it!
Grace and peace,Lynn
TWEETABLEAdventuring in Utah Gave Me Insight into Important Writing Truths: 6 Things I learned about Writing at Capitol Reef, @LynnHBlackburn on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
 Adventuring in Utah Gave Me Insight into Important Writing Truths Part 1: The Brutal Beginning Part 2: Take it Slow and Don't Grab the Reins Part 3: 6 Things I Learned about Writing at Capitol Reef
Lynn H. Blackburn is the award-winning author of Unknown Threat, Malicious Intent, and Under Fire, as well as the Dive Team Investigations series. She loves writing swoon-worthy southern suspense because her childhood fantasy was to become a spy, but her grown-up reality is that she's a huge chicken and would have been caught on her first mission. She prefers to live vicariously through her characters by putting them into terrifying situations while she's sitting at home in her pajamas! She lives in Simpsonville, South Carolina, with her true love, Brian, and their three children. Learn more at www.lynnhblackburn.com.

The Top Four Mistakes New Writers Make (And Why You're Not Alone)

by Sarah Sally Hamer @SarahSallyHamer
Do you remember your first book? I do! It was terrible, with every single trope a book could have. My characters pontificated their views ad nauseum, with long, convoluted speeches that went on for paragraph after paragraph. I created beautiful plot points that went nowhere. And, my villains twirled their mustaches. I just didn’t know my craft.
But, like most writers, I learned. I took classes. I wrote lots of words, I was lucky to have brilliant and supportive critique partners and lots of great craft books. And, I shifted from being a newbie to an award-winning writer, with two Golden Heart finals to my name. Doesn’t make me an expert. And, I am still making mistakes. But I’m certainly a better writer than I was before.
So, let me share four of the writing mistakes I’ve made and what I needed to know to correct them.
1. Trying to Write Like Someone Else
We all have writers we love and want to be like. Which is not at all a bad thing. But why can’t you be you? You have a voice of your own, a style that is very specific to you. That style is so recognizable that even J. K. Rowling was outed on her non-Harry Potter books by an AI from several years ago. Someone recognized her way of writing, plugged it into a computer program, and found that she was the author of a completely different style of books. Voice is that exclusive to us.
I wanted to write like one of my favorite authors. And, unfortunately, I did. People even recognized her style in my writing. It took me a while to break myself from that habit and find “me,” but I finally did.
Because we are distinct and unique, our writing must follow suit. 
My best advice? Write how you think. Really—your natural cadence has power. Remember, your voice is the soul of your writing. It evolves best through authenticity.
2. Obsessing Over Perfection 
There is no perfection. And chasing the illusion that you can achieve it can make you doubt everything you write. We all want to find that perfect word or sentence or story. That isn’t going to happen. I know a whole bunch of people who write amazing books that never get out from under their bed, because they don’t think they’re good enough. 
My best advice? Be creative when you’re writing and be analytical when you’re editing. But remember that, even if you’re not ever completely happy with your story, it doesn’t mean it’s not good. And sellable. Call a halt at some point and go on to the next book, taking the lessons you’ve learned with you. Give yourself permission to write badly. Terribly, even. But don’t give up because you don’t think you’re perfect enough.
3. Skipping the Reading Part
There are so many writers who don’t read other people’s books. Or only read within their genre. This can easily cause us to get stuck in our own head. Market trends should NOT be your only guide, but not keeping up with what is selling today is a mistake if you want to be relevant. 
My best advice? Read. Read extensively. Read the good stuff AND the bad. Evaluate what you read. Why is it bad or good? (And remember, you have a right to your opinion about what that constitutes.) Compare and contrast. It’s really one of the best educations you’ll ever give yourself.
4. Underestimating Structure and Purpose
If you’ll think about the books you love, the ones that made a difference in your life, you may find that most of the most important ones have a distinct theme and/or purpose. The characters go through a journey by knowing what they want, working toward it, learning to deal with obstacles, realizing they need to change, sacrificing their old, stuck ideas, then triumphing in the end and creating a new, improved life (check out The Hero’s Journey, if you haven’t already found it – here’s a link to a video I use in my classes—great example! www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hhk4N9A0oCA).
Building that structure and purpose helps a writer in three ways:It gives us a road map to help us get from the beginning to the end.It allows us to construct a true character arc. We don’t have to flounder around, getting lost as we scurry down those rabbit trails.It establishes unforgettable characters – ones that our readers keep coming back to.
My best advice? “Sit down” with your characters and ask them questions. Remember, they really are just a tiny slice of your own personality. Give them a voice that will resonate with you and your readers, by understanding who they are.
Bottom line? Never give up. Never surrender! (Quote from Peter Taggart, Galaxy Quest) Very few people were famous writers on the day they were born. Most of us have been slogging through, uh, working our way through the understanding of how stories actually are told for most of our life.
But the good news is that true writing comes from your heart. You may never become famous or rich from it, but finding your own voice is magic.
What have you learned on your writing journey? 
TWEETABLEThe Top Four Mistakes New Writers Make (And Why You're Not Alone) from @SarahSallyHamer on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Sarah (Sally) Hamer, B.S., MLA, is a lover of books, a teacher of writers, and a believer in a good story. Most of all, she is eternally fascinated by people and how they 'tick'. She’s passionate about helping people tell their own stories, whether through fiction or through memoir. Writing in many genres—mystery, science fiction, fantasy, romance, medieval history, non-fiction—she has won awards at both local and national levels, including two Golden Heart finals.
A teacher of memoir, beginning and advanced creative fiction writing, and screenwriting at Louisiana State University in Shreveport for over twenty years, she also teaches online for Margie Lawson at WWW.MARGIELAWSON.COM and atHTTPS://NOSTRESSWRITING.COM/. Sally is a free-lance editor and book coach, with many of her students and clients becoming successful, award-winning authors. You can find her at SALLY@MINDPOTENTIAL.ORG

Writing Trends and POV Choices: How Storytelling Styles Evolve (and What Readers Want Now)

by PeggySue Wells @PeggySueWells
Writing, like hair styles and clothing fashions, follows trends. Writers must stay plugged into the industry and attend the occasional conference to stay up to date with what is popular in publishing. The alternative is become a dinosaur whose career drifts out of style.
In earlier years, writers were paid per word for their work. Writers like Victor Hugo who penned Les Miserables spent the first 100 pages describing lesser characters like the Priest who gives the main character, Jean Valjean, a second chance. 
Additionally, prior to television, readers were not as familiar with how places and activities looked. Herman Melville spent the better part of Moby Dick describing life in the American colonies and the practice of whaling. The advent of widespread television made a lot of description unnecessary. Through media, readers were now aware of what other countries and lifestyles looked like. 
In Victor Hugo's day, readers depended on authors to write descriptions that allowed them to visualize the horrors of Jean Valjean seeing his sister's children starving, the cruelty of prison for the man who stole bread to feed his niece and nephew, the kindness of a priest, the tragedy of young men killed for defying the government, and the decision to do good by others even when the didn't deserve it. 
For Victor Hugo, Third Person Omniscient POV proved best when he wrote Les Miserables.
Currently, writers can choose from any of the nine styles of POV when structuring their story. There will always be skilled authors and unique tales that work well in a POV style that is not the most common of the day. 
As seen by today's bestsellers, the majority of popular stories tend to be penned in three points of view.
Top Three POVs TodayFirst Person Cinematic — Hunger Games by Suzanne CollinsThird Person Limited — Harry Potter by JK RowlingThird Person Omniscient — The Princess Bride by William Goldman 
Do you have a favorite POV for writing? Do you prefer to read stories written in a particular POV?
TWEETABLEWriting Trends and POV Choices: How Storytelling Styles Evolve (and What Readers Want Now) from @PeggySueWells on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
PeggySue Wells is the award-winning USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of 45 books including the mystery suspense title of the year, Unnatural Cause. 
Action and adventure, romantic suspense, military romance, and cozy mystery are the page-turning novels by P.S. Wells including Chasing Sunrise, Homeless for the Holidays, and The Patent. How to live better, easier, and simpler is the focus of her nonfiction including The Ten Best Decisions A Single Mom Can Make.
PeggySue is a frequent guest with media including Focus On The Family, Family Life Today, and Christian Product Expo. She regularly teaches at conferences including Write To Publish, Taylor University Writers Conference, Kentucky Christian Writers Conference, and the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association. Collaborator on multiple titles including books with Dr. Benjamin Hardy, Shemane Nugent, Pat Palau, and Pam Farrel, PeggySue is a writing coach. When not writing, she parasails, skydives, snorkels, scuba dives, rides horses, and has taken (but not passed) pilot training. Founder of SingleMomCircle.com, connect with PS Wells at WWW.PEGGYSUEWELLS.COM, on Facebook at PeggySue Wells, and LinkedIn at LINKEDIN.COM/IN/PEGGYSUEWELLS

Would a Siesta Improve Your Writing Productivity?

by Ginny Cruz, MPA, PT
A few years ago, our younger son attended a Bible college in Argentina. While he enjoyed the experience of living abroad, one thing he chafed against was the siesta time and the laid-back approach to productivity. When my husband and I visited him, we felt the same way.
Shops were closed without notice, and there was no note on the door indicating when the siesta would end. Restaurants opened whenever the owners decided, and time seemed to slow down. Being American and accustomed to 24/7, 365 customer expectations, we struggled to enjoy this culture of taking time away from duties to rest and enjoy life. 
What is a Siesta?
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a siesta is an afternoon nap. The Spaniards had siesta time, to relax and rest during the heat of the day. And countries where the Spaniards influenced the culture, such as Argentina, continue to observe this tradition of siesta. While they may not nap, per se, their pace of getting things accomplished is relaxed and less customer-focused than America’s.
The Upside of Rest
Having worked in the rapid-paced healthcare environment for many years, taking a rest or a siesta when you want to is absurd. When your patient needs treatment, you do it when it’s needed, not when you feel like it. But resting, even if it’s for a few moments to close your eyes and relax, is a healthy way to live your days.
The science shows that adequate rest does boost productivity. While some of us need a short nap after lunch, others may not. But a short walk outside to think and clear your head may be beneficial. What is unhealthy is non-stop work; yet, that is what we live with in America today.
Writers Need Refreshment
I'm not sure about you, but I struggle to hear from God while keeping a tight schedule of appointments and projects. Quiet time, preferably outdoors, surrounded by chirping birds, buzzing bees, and the sweet aroma of evergreens, is where God and I most often connect. Those are the experiences my body needs to produce my best writing. Other ideas that may help you are contained in Edie Melson’s book, Soul Care for Writers , which is an excellent guide to rest for creatives. Also, Saundra Dalton-Smith’s book, Sacred Rest , is another wonderful resource if you struggle allowing yourself to relax. 
What about you? Do you need a siesta? Perhaps, a short vacation to walk on the sand, a moment to dip your toes into an icy mountain stream, or a warm evening to eat ice cream and watermelon with your family? Whatever works for you, take time for refreshment. Schedule it, if necessary.
Jesus Rested
Jesus often withdrew from the crowds and the demands of constant responsibility to spend time with God. I imagine he reclined and closed his eyes. Did he enjoy the birds in the olive trees overhead? Did he have favorite flowers he sniffed, or maybe his imagination formed images in the clouds?
If Jesus needed rest to accomplish his work here on earth, we surely need it as well. Regardless of the satisfaction we may receive from being constantly available to answer emails, texts, and social media notifications, may we embrace the loveliness of the occasional siesta. It takes effort for me to disconnect from our pace of life here in the USA, but when I do, it does improve my writing.
What are some things you enjoy when you take a siesta away from writing? 
TWEETABLEWould a Siesta Improve Your Writing Productivity? from Ginny Cruz on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Ginny Cruz, MPA, PT is a pediatric physical therapist, early intervention specialist, and award-winning author. Her writing encourages and teaches moms simple and effective ways to help their baby meet developmental milestones. In addition to writing, she enjoys hiking, reading, and camping with her husband. Find out more at ginnycruz.com and Instagram.