How Writers Are Part of a Humanitarian Chain

As we head toward the end of the year, I find myself thinking more about what writers do and the opportunity that arises every time we settle our fingers on the keyboard. Beyond the words and flow of the story lies something meaningful: the ability to be a voice–a powerful voice–that reaches through the page to influence readers to think deeper about the world, the people in it, and how their own actions might make life better for everyone.

[image error]Without the written word, how many causes would fail to draw champions to lead the charge for change? How many marginalized people would continue to be unfairly treated and sidelined? How many environmental concerns would not be on anyone’s radar? Words have power. Our thoughts, observations, and the ideas we share with readers have power. As writers, we can bring light to the minds of others, and that’s pretty special.

Don’t get me wrong, we have work to do (so much work!) but what a privilege that we can touch on sensitive topics through story and evoke an emotional response in readers that may lead to reflection, open-mindedness, and maybe (just maybe!) change. Every day I reflect on what an honor it is to be a writer. I admire the courage of those writers who speak out about what they believe to be right even when it is not always popular (or safe) for them to do so.

All people can be caretakers. Each of us can choose to be part of a chain that lifts those around us up.

In my mind, the writing community is a shining example of this. Each day I see you guys working together to share knowledge, advise, discuss, and give your time to helping other writers succeed. It’s just brilliant! So I wanted to take a second to thank you for doing that. Everyone is busy, their lives packed with responsibilities and commitments, yet I know you make time for others. It’s a pretty beautiful thing to see this on a daily basis, and it’s why I love being part of the writing world.

A few more things to mention…

[image error]While on the topic of thank yous, Becca and I need to also pass on our appreciation for supporting us and our books so we can keep doing what we love: being part of this chain. You may not realize it, but your support of our books help in a much bigger way; each year we take a portion of our earnings and donate it to a specific charity. This year you have helped us donate $1000 to Doctors Without Borders, so thank you! (To find out more about the incredible work they do, just visit this link.)

[image error]Also, if you have been around the blog this last 10 days or so, you would have seen our Advent Calendar for Writers event. This is to celebrate you, and all writers, so we hope you will check it out. Leaders in our industry have joined us to create an incredible giveaway of writing prizes that will give you a leg up toward your writing goals. The total prize value is in the $2000 range, so please enter! We’d love you to win something that can help your writing career.

The last day to enter is Dec 19th, so it’s not too late. All the prizes to date are listed here in this post, along with the links to each giveaway.

Guest post alert!

Finally, I wanted to pass on a link to a post of mine on character relationships over at Mythcreants: Taking Character Relationships to the Next Level. (This is like a mini master class on relationships, based on a tool we’ll be creating for One Stop for Writers, so please check it out.)

Happy Thursday to all!

~Angela

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