Get It Down

One of the best pieces of writing advice I received in college was from a published author who visited, imparting us with great tidbits of wisdom. I specifically remember this author telling me and my fellow writing majors that you’re only a serious author if you make a commitment to write down your thoughts.

Message received. Take notes.

Over the years I’ve done just that. I haven’t let my thoughts fade into the dying world of ideas. Or at least I’ve tried hard to keep that from happening. I get my thoughts down.

Thought it would be fun to list all of the unconventional and creative places I’ve jotted down notes throughout the years.

Receipts

Kid’s projects

Inside books

Inside planners

Sticky notes

On my hand

Church bulletins

Journals (of course)

Homework

Newspaper

Christmas cards

Phone book

Concert bulletins

Bookmarks

Flyers

Playing cards

Bills

On magazine articles

On the back of photographs

Children’s book

Inside greeting cards

On my business cards

On a paper bag 

And the latest place I’ve been taking notes over the past few weeks (and one of my favorites)…

 

Paint swatches

Pass It On

 

The motto for Wittenberg University, my alma mater, is “Having Light We Pass It On To Others.” I’ve been thinking a lot about that call to action. I especially thought of it a few days ago when I was notified that one of the students in my first writing workshop won a young author award for the story she wrote in my class.

I’ve learned a tremendous amount, culminating from my years as a creative writing undergrad and the past eight years I’ve spent immersed in the publication industry. I have so much to share—to pass on.

I’ve decided it’s a shame to hoard knowledge. In appropriate measure, in ways I hope will be received, I desire to impart the things that have shaped me as a writer. Those insights that have grown me.

With that, I can’t stress enough how more than anything else it is imperative that you, as a writer, search relentlessly for your own voice. Take your own road. Bushwhack if you have to. But carve out a path that makes sense for you and your journey.

And then one last thing, don’t stuff all the light down deep inside you. Pass it on.

 

 

*I'm teaching my 2^nd Story Maker Writing Workshop August 3^rd-5^th (just a few spots left). Local parents, contact me if your child is interested.