What is a writer?

It's funny but when people ask me what I do and I answer that I'm a writer, they always seem to pause and one of two statements are made.

Either 1) I have a book I want to write or 2)What did you write?

When I hear the first answer I smile and then give the one piece of advice any writer should always give, "Write it."

Of course when I hear the second statement I tell them about my novel, Beatrice Munson. (www.LorenaBBooks.com)

It seems a lot of people have books they either want to write or think about writing. And I know the concept of writing can be fearful but truly there is only one thing you HAVE to do to be a writer....write.

Yes, it may not be great writing to start out with but that's what re-writes and editors are for. But if you have something to say, then for goodness sakes, say it. Because I guarantee that someone, somewhere is waiting to read your words.

Writing does not have to be perfect. In fact, I found many errors in the recent novel I read. Think of it as art; writing is art and like art it has imperfections. I said imperfections not horrible blazes of bad spelling and unheeded grammar rules. A few errors in any book is possible and should be looked at like brush strokes you can see in a painting.

No matter what don't be afraid to write down what you feel in your heart. And then let someone read it. Ask them to be kind, gentle, and maybe not to wear their reading glasses...but let them read it and then take their praises when they give them.

Go ahead...write!