Jordan Weiber’s father described seeing his then 1-year old daughter displaying an incredible sense of balance by standing on one leg “like a pelican” as she dressed herself. Gabby Douglas’s mother remembers installing a camera in the toddler’s bedroom to study how she was getting out of the crib. As it turns out, Gabby had perfected a push-up and front-flip move to dismount. These two young ladies, now US Olympic athletes discussed in the latest issue of Sports Illustrated, showed exceptional athletic abilities early on.
Reading the athletes’ stories and thinking about my own childhood experiences reminded me that many of us have always known, deep down inside, what we were destined to do (Ephesians 2:10). In my case, we’re talking writing, of course. I remember drawing long squiggles on sheets of paper, taking them to my mom, asking her, “Mom, what does it say?”
She’d reply, “I don’t know. What do you think it says?” And I’d make up a story. This happened countless times before I ever actually learned what a letter was.
I don’t have any scientific data for what I’m about to share here. But I think these quirky little characteristics might be clues that you, too, were born with a natural affinity for words.
1. Are you a pen-freak? Do you horde pens, “accidentally” take pens, get excited when you see several different colors of pens, or have a favorite type of pen you love to write with? Even though many of us “write” on computers, many of us still love to see ink flow on paper. It’s a beautiful thing.
2. Do you have several ‘Chapter One’ files on your computer? Starting books over and over again is a sign that you must write a book. Write one already. You don’t have to get it published, you don’t even have to like it. Just write it to prove to yourself that you can actually complete a manuscript. Next time, you might have something you’d like to share with the world.
3. Are you secretly semi-jealous of other writers? Perhaps this is the biggest clue of all. Nothing stabs you in the gut like seeing someone else do what you, too, are supposed to be doing. My only advice, get in place! The world needs you! More specifically, the body of Christ needs you to help us all mature (Ephesians 4:12-16).
I’d love to hear your thoughts – how did you know you were meant to do a certain thing? And if you’re a writer, what can you add to this list of signs that you were born to write?
Ahhh….Michelle, your post was just right on time! I have an index card, given to us by my 11th grade geometry teacher for some reason–but I wrote on it. Drew on it. Teeny tiny words. I still have the card. I would write stuff on anything. Inspirational stuff. Just didn’t know that’s what it was. God works in His own way.
Hey Lisa! You know I’m your go-to girl when you get ready to pull that index card back out!
Oh you are so on point, Michelle! RSVP pens, fine or medium point, with the cap are pens of choice to write with. But I love all kinds of pens, and I try to find all kinds of pens to write with for different circumstances. I’ve written plays, novel chapters (including novel ideas), tv script ideas, magazine articles. And yes, I’m jealous of other writers (I just want to get where they are); the good ones (like you) inspire me to push on. Thanks for the encouragement.
Oh, Donna – I would rather get gen pens (and stationery) for Christmas than money! LOL! God bless – be encouraged 🙂
oh yes, the pen obsession. No one understands this quite like a burgeoning writer. and don’t forget about having the right type of paper to go with said pen(s). LOL
When I began reading your post I got nervous thinking, ‘uh-oh, what if I don’t identify with anything on the list? Should I just chuck my laptop with all the unfinished manuscripts out the window?’ But the PENS! OMG. I am a freak about pens. Give me a 0.7 gel pen and I’m done for! I can remember loving to write notes and letters to and with my friends. We would have long, involved letters going back and forth. My paragraphs would each be done in a different color pens, of course. I have just always desired to express myself through writing–I feel like I can better express myself that way. If I can eeeeever find an employer that would let me do my interview in writing; I’d sho ’nuff have an edge. LOL! Thanks for helping to reconfirm my call to write :o). Pens. Who knew!
Danimac, no worries! This was all just observational – but the obsession with pens is always a giveaway! .7 – wow! Wonderful!
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Reblogged this on Weaving Stories of Faith, Hope & Love and commented:
Wish I had this advise when I marinated over Chapter One of An Unexpected Blessing for four years. Well my push came a little differently but this article is so on point.
Happy Reading.
Blessings
Unoma
Ever since I was tiny I would use any scrap paper I could find and make a tiny book. My mother recently gave me all the ones she kept and that meant so much to me. I know the Lord has been calling me to write since then but I just needed to find His direction for my writing and (Praise the Lord!) I finally have!