New Year's Resolutions

Getting a clear picture of fireworks without a tripod sure is tricky!

    2016 is almost upon us . . . a new year.
    Hundreds--no, thousands . . . millions?--of people are making new year's resolutions, resolving to work on improving or accomplishing something throughout the next year. Having a goal (or goals) like that is cool, and a good encouragement to get things done. Personally, one of my resolutions is to improve my blogging. Maybe make longer posts and have more pictures. (If you have any preferences, I'd love to hear them!)
    Do you make new year's resolutions? How do you work on accomplishing them? Do you make a plan, or just start working at it until it's accomplished?
    Have a wonderful new year, people of the blog world! :D

Darcy Pattison On First Drafts And Those That Follow

 

"The function of the first draft is to help you figure out your story. The function of every draft after that is to figure out the most dramatic way to tell that story."

~Darcy Pattison

   

Merry Christmas 2015!!!

    It's the most wonderful time of the year! A holiday that brings families together and celebrates God's gift to the earth: Jesus Christ's miraculous birth; His arrival to bring salvation to mankind. As the angels in Luke 2 proclaim, it's "good tidings of great joy!"
    Have a wonderful Christmas!

Writing Games: Holiday Songs

    Everybody likes games, right? And for writers, writing prompts are kind of like that. A creative challenge with an outline.
    Songs tell stories of their own, or deliver a message of some kind--especially holiday songs. Christmas songs in particular tend to tell stories. Lots of them are about Christ's birth, painting pictures of that wonderful and monumental night, and other songs are about different and often modern-day topics. Like "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus," "Rudolph The Red-nosed Reindeer" (admit it, you know the lyrics by heart :)), and "All I Want For Christmas Is You."
    With those kind of songs, it could be really fun to try to think up and write a story based off of it. It's just like a game, a writing challenge!
    What kind of story would you write based off of, say, "Last Christmas" or "Jingle Bells?"

Luke 2:11-12



"'For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: you will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.'"

Luke 2:11-12 (NKJ)

Because He Is

    In Matthew 14, by Jesus's command, the disciples went out in a boat to cross the sea they were by. For a while, things were hunky-dory. They were making progress, and things were good. But about halfway across the sea, they got into some trouble--that trouble being a massive storm that frightened even the tough, experienced fishermen.
    Can you imagine it? Being in a boat that was being rocked around like a leaf in a fountain, trying to splash as much water out as possible, half-sure that you were going to drown . . . when you suddenly see something out on the water. Something that impossibly looks just like a person.
    Of course, that figure was Christ--though the disciples thought that He was a ghost, which terrified them even more. What did Jesus say in response? In the NKJ version, His words were: "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid." The footnote, however, says that the phrase "it is I" can be translated as "I am."
    I AM is one of the names of God; one of the most amazing ones. He was in the past, He is presently, and He will always be forever. He'll always be the same strong, loving, able, awesome God who rescues us. Which means that He can help us through storms now just like He has in the past, like when He parted the Red Sea, and when He stilled the waters of this chapter in Matthew.
    Storms come and go, but the Lord has always been and will never leave us alone. Whatever serious issue we go through today, the Lord is able to handle it. That's a comfort, isn't it?

Weather In A Story

    If you've read the Under The Never Sky series, you know the important roles that the storms have. Not only is it a unique factor in the book's world, but it also makes things happen. It affects what the characters do, where they go, and it causes them to depend on one another.
    And if you've read the Sherlock Holmes novel, The Hound Of The Baskervilles, you may notice how the weather affects the setting and the characters and the story. It gives off a sort of mysterious atmosphere that hints at danger, which can be ideal for that type of story.
    If a character is in a car chase with a bad guy, there would be a huge difference between the weather being sunny and pleasant and it being rainy with dark clouds blocking out the sun. The action could go in a dramatically different way. Being accurate with the weather is important too--it probably isn't cold enough to freeze snot during autumn in a beachside town, and when it's summer in Florida, it's not likely that a character would wear a scarf and long coat.
    Weather can be pretty important in a story. Not only does it add to description, but it can be used to prompt events, influence characters, and create a sort of mood in the story that the readers experience as they read.
    Does weather play a large role in your writing? What is your favorite type of weather to write about?

Psalm 119:103

 





"How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!"

Psalm 119:103 (NKJ)

    God's Word is so sweet. Full of kindness and love, it can stir up a warm, fuzzy feeling inside without hiding any bitter realities. God's Word is a hundred percent truthful; absolutely dependable. And it brings good tidings of salvation. Isn't it wonderful? :)

Holidays Can Be So Busy!

    Hey, blogging world. I'm so sorry that I haven't posted anything in a week! So many things to do--especially with the holidays coming up . . .
    It always gets somewhat busier during this time of the year, doesn't it? With gift-shopping, work, homework/studying, decorating, and maybe a Christmas party or two, the days can be short and full of action. But they're also fun, aren't they? With all the Christmas lights and spending time with friends and family, and those short precious moments of free time when you can do something like reading or writing.
    The time of the holidays: busy, but fun! Do you agree?

A Few Tips For Note-Taking

    Note-taking is awesome. Not only is it fun, but it can be really useful in improving writing. Plus, it's a way to watch your favorite shows for hours on end and still be productive! :D
    When taking notes, it helps to have an idea of what to take notes about. Here are a few suggestions:
  -Characters and their roles.
  -Sources of conflict.
  -The way details are given. Does a character bring it up, are there flashback scenes, or can the reader/viewer notice it themselves as the action's going on?
  -Relationships between characters. What makes them significant? Do their actions truly show their feelings?
  -Characteristics of both characters and settings.
  -Things that can be improved, and how you would improve them.
  -Things that provoke emotion, and why.
  -Methods of humor. What type does the genre use? Slapstick, corny jokes, sarcasm, irony?
    So, are these helpful?

Proverbs 4:23

 

"Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life."

Proverbs 4:23 (NKJ)

How Drawing Can Help You Write

    Last year during NaNoWriMo, as I was writing my manuscript, I sketched and even colored a number of pictures. Drawings of characters, room layouts, sketches of tools, and outfit designs.
   It really helped me visualize the story, and when I was debating on how to describe something's color, comparing colors on the drawings really helped. Not to mention that looking at a picture of the characters, seeing their faces and having a picture of them doing things, was encouraging and cool.
   Even if the art isn't exactly a masterpiece, it can help the creative juices flow. And if you don't like drawing but have a friend who does, giving them a description and asking them to draw the character is really awesome!
    Does anyone else out there draw pictures of their characters or scenes from their stories? Would anyone want to design the book cover of their story?

Psalm 50:14

"Offer to God thanksgiving, and pay your vows to the Most High."

Psalm 50:14 (NKJ)

 



    Giving thanks is wonderful! And really a pleasant thing to do. Thinking about all the blessings God has given thoughtfully and freely, knowing that He's glad to give them, and thanking Him for being so good. It's not only right to be thankful, but it's nice to remember all of the wonderful ways God has blessed us in life. A comfort to realize just how much he cares for us. Don't you agree? :)

    Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Week!

Having Heart In What You Do

    Everyone who's taken on a trade or tried to learn a new practice knows that you've got to care about it--really care about it--and be glad to improve it. Otherwise, as time goes on, you notice imperfections in your work that make you really upset, grasping new concepts becomes more difficult, and practicing becomes tiresome and even boring sometimes. That's when the temptation to quit shows its deceitfully relieving and tempting face.
    You've got to have passion for what you do--not just thinking "I have to do it", but taking heart and really enjoying doing it. Knowing that it's not for nothing.
    For a writer, every paragraph written with eagerness and attentiveness creates a heart-felt passage and flexes their creative muscle. Every song a pianist practices faithfully keeps their fingers flexible and produces beautiful, harmonious sound. Whenever an actor works hard and gladly in the play/musical/opera they perform in, they gift an audience with a real and heart-felt performance.
    When someone really cares about what they do, and they put all they've got into it, the work can really be amazing.

Isaiah 26:3



"You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You."

Isaiah 26:3 (NKJ)

Charlotte Woods On Sacrifice

 

"The first thing is to really commit and be serious about it. You have to say 'no' to other things."

~Charlotte Woods

    Agh, one of the difficult parts in a writer's life. Sacrifice.
    Time is short--especially when you go to school and/or have a job, so every hour is precious. Great writing takes time, so often a writer has to give other fun things up so they can use that time. Sometimes it's something small, like putting off a chore, and other times it's something more difficult to give up, like watching the season finale of an awesome series, or sleeping in on a rare day off.
    It's not fun, giving those things up. But when it's done and the time is invested in writing, it really shows in the final product. Don't you agree?

Matthew 24:35

 

"'Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.'"

Matthew 24:35 (NKJ)

 

    The Lord's words are kind of like rock. Sturdy, solid, and reliable, it doesn't change. You can grab onto it and trust that it won't vaporize or anything. God's words are dependable, able to help you through any situation, and not needing to be revised in order to suit the transforming world. Isn't that great? :)

Always Enough Time

    Man, ever had one of those days where it's like you've crammed work into every hour and finish only in time to go to sleep? It's like time burns like paper!
    But on those kind of days, doesn't everything that needs to be finished get done? All that boring work completed and (for the time being) over with. There's not an extra minute to spare, but there was just enough time to do everything important.
    I think it's cool how the Lord does that, giving us enough time to complete what needs to be done (unless we procrastinate, of course). In a busy world with long lists of things to do, He always gives us the time we need to accomplish the things that matter. It's nice, don't you agree? :)

NaNoWriMo Begins!

    Two days ago, National Novel Writing Month officially began.
    NaNoWriMo. A month where the eager, determined writer writes like crazy to complete their first draft. Some writers spend long hours of their day writing for this--especially when they have Thanksgiving Break. Others just do a little bit every day and accumulate their word count goal gradually. But the goal for everyone remains the same: to finish that first draft by the end of the month.
    It's a considerably short deadline. Finishing a manuscript in a month is no easy feat! Writing challenges like this can be really difficult, but they're also fun, and they help people grow as writers.
    Deadlines tend to give extra incentive to finish the first draft. Whether it be a personal goal or something assigned by a publisher, typically a writer has strong determination to not miss that deadline. There's more on the line with a race against time. More reason to work harder.
    Is anyone out there doing NaNoWriMo this year? Does anyone have other personally set deadlines for their writing?

John 13:35

 

"'By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.'"

John 13:35 (NKJ)

Out Of The Comfort Zone

 

    No one would voluntarily slap the palm of their hand onto a burner they know is piping hot, right? Of course not; because it would hurt--a lot. And not a lot of people would agree to walk across a tightrope over a canyon unless they're incredibly daring and well trained. It's a proven fact of life that most people do not do things that cause them discomfort unless they absolutely have to. It's not often that someone voluntarily chooses to leave their comfort zone.
    We're safe in the comfort zone. A person is in their element there, and can usually predict what's going to happen. There are no unpleasant surprises and no serious risks. Outside of the comfort zone is the unknown--which can sometimes be really frightening.
    But there are also adventures out there. Thrilling ones well worth having. Often in life, God beckons us out of the comfort zone to take us on journeys like these. To help us grow and to do awesome things. Sure, there might be some unpleasant dips in the road, but as long as God is guiding you, there's going to be a good end.
    It could be small or something huge. Reciting a speech in front of a group of people, or going on a mission trip. But whatever it is, as long as the Lord is by your side, things are sure to be great!

Rival Characters

    Sometimes the protagonist's opponent is someone they face off with for the first time. But other times, the antagonist or the contagonist (someone who opposes or gets in the way of the hero without the malicious intentions an actual antagonist would have) is someone they've known and fought with for a while. Someone who's in constant competition with the protagonist: a rival.
    Rivalries can be major subplots in a story, and also another source of conflict that tests and creates obstacles for the protagonist. In addition, the rival is also a unique character with their own aspirations and role in the story.
    Typically, the protagonist and their rival have similar interests and desires--similar skills that they use to compete for a singular goal. The protagonist's rival is usually the aggressor in their relationship--though sometimes the rival can also be a friend of the protagonist, or a non-aggressive person that the protagonist is determined to be better than. A rival could use honest tactics to try to prevail (using their own skills in a fair competition) or they could use some not-so-honest methods (like sabotage).
    Does your protagonist have a rival? Is s/he smug, amiable, or fierce? Is s/he a calculating mastermind, or are they just plain stubborn to not be bested?

Proverbs 14:4

"Where no oxen are, the trough is clean; but much increase comes by the strength of an ox."

Proverbs 14:4 (NKJ)

    So if a messy trough means oxen are around, and that's a sign of productivity . . . does that mean that a messy, paper-cluttered desk shows that work is getting done? :)

Why Do You Write?

    In school, as I was walking down a hallway, I saw a poster of sorts put up. On it, there were a number of index cards with writing on it.
    Each card had a sentence on it, someone's reason to write. There was a plethora of statements: To show the world my thoughts. To express my soul. To go into another world. Because I'll fail English class if I don't.
    Every writer has reasons for writing. For one, we just love to! Writing is fun! And we like the characters we write, enjoy going into a world we imagined, adore creating something as intricate and awesome as a story . . .
    When the well of inspiration has run dry, remembering your reason to write can really give you encouragement to keep writing.
    Why do you write?

Ink: The Cure For All Human Ills

 

"Whenever you are fed up with life, start writing: ink is the great cure for all human ills, as I have found out long ago."

~C.S. Lewis

Psalm 23:4

 

"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me."

Psalm 23:4 (NKJ)

Any Ideas?

    Hey, blog world. You might have noticed that lately I haven't really been doing Thursday/Friday posts every single week. It's because I don't always know what to blog about. Typically Thursday's post subject is about life, but since that's a broad subject . . .
    Is there something else that anyone would like me to blog about as well on Thursdays? If so, please let me know in the comments section. :)
    Have a great weekend!

Voices Of Doubt

    On at least one occasion, I've abandoned stories I was writing because of a thought. A couple words in my mind that convinced me to give up on something I was once really, really excited about; on a project that could have had major potential.
    The thought that caused me to quit?  These words: this just isn't working out.
    Those words, that whisper of doubt led to other thoughts. That the story was cliché, that the plot was dry, that the characters were boring, and that the story was unfixable. Those little thoughts that nagged at me, making the project seem more and more useless, quenching my desire to write the story until I gave up on it completely.
    The voices of doubt. Every writer hears them, right? Every writer has gone through something like this in the process of writing--including professional writers who, once they ignored the doubts and kept writing, eventually produced masterpieces that readers adore.
    Don't listen to the voices of doubt! Nothing you write will be useless. Even if you never get that particular story published, you can still have improved writing skills through the process of completing it.
    Keep on writing! Don't give up! :D

James 3:18

"Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace."

James 3:18 (NKJ)

A Character's Power

    Power is extremely important for a character--especially protagonists and antagonists. It's what gives them the ability/strength to do things. Without power, all they can do is think and simmer. A good guy without power can only stand by and watch, and a bad guy without power isn't threatening at all.
    This power can be physical abilities, special information/insight, and other skills. Something that makes a character special; something that they use to do something radical.
    Where do they get their power? It doesn't have to be something they're born with. A character may get their power from a situation they're in, or a place they go to, or from other people. For example: a blackmailer's power would be information, which they could receive from their own investigating skills or from other people. And an athlete's power would be their ability to excel at a sport, which they could improve by practicing at a gym or on an empty field.
    What is your protagonist's "power," and where do they get it from?

Proverbs 3:5

 

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding;"

Proverbs 3:5 (NKJ)

Sources Of Conflict

    Every story needs conflict. It's got to have at least one kind of problem that the main character(s) spend the story trying to solve.
    Though almost always, there's more than one conflict going on. As there are different aspects of life, a character may have problems from multiple areas in their "world." Like for example, a character could be trying to solve a bullying problem at school while trying to deal with a family issue at home, and maybe also trying to remedy their own feelings of insecurity.
    A handful of problems keeps a character on their toes--which is good for a story.
    Here are a few ideas for sources of conflict:
    Finances. A shortage of money can mean losing a lifestyle or moving away from a beloved area; and a sudden gain of money (while it has its charming benefits) can attract unwanted attention or threaten to make the protagonist shallow.
    A figure/secret from the past. A mistake the character made long ago that could cause serious damage to their life and/or their reputation; an old enemy who's come to rock the boat.
    Visitors. A mysterious stranger, a new student, the crazy uncle . . .
    Troublemakers. Someone who likes to play games with people and their lives. People like this aren't common in real life, but they can make things a little more interesting in fiction.
    Relationships. Arguments with friends, rivalry between coworkers, having issues with the boyfriend/girlfriend, etc.
    Family: Why can't they just get along with each other? Does the protagonist verbally battle their sibling or their parents? Is there some kind of competition for attention?
    Someone else having a problem: What if the best friend got dumped by her boyfriend and started clinging to the protagonist like a wet rag? What if the protagonist's sibling got in trouble with the law?
    Death: It touches everyone. And it is always horrible to go through.
    Changing society: These are especially useful in historical novels. How would the main character react to the world around them becoming totally different? Maybe they would have trouble adjusting to changes.
    Was this list helpful at all? Please feel free to leave comments! :)

Matthew 18:20

"'For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.'"

Matthew  18:20 (NKJ)

    Wow. Two or three believers, and Christ is there. Isn't that incredible?

Pearl

    Lots of people know how a pearl is made, right? A grain of sand or fragment of rock or something gets trapped inside a clam or an oyster, it rolls around inside, gets coated with a substance called nacre, and eventually becomes the beautiful white orb we treasure.
    It's really fascinating when you think about it. A tiny, irritating little speck becoming something gorgeous and precious. Kind of like the issues we face in life, right? Annoying problems that we overcome can become precious lessons, valuable trophies of life. Or it can be like something we face in life that we initially see as annoying, but come to be fond of. Like a mandatory activity or an imperfection that eventually becomes tolerable and fun.
    What do you think of this comparison? Do you think it's accurate?

Letting An Idea Sit

    It's awesome when you come up with an idea for a new story. And sometimes it's a chain reaction: you get an idea for a character, then a setting, then other characters, then a villain, then a story plot (or in completely different order). And when those ideas do strike, the characters seem awesome, the plot sounds easy to write about, and you may want to start writing the first draft immediately.
    Although, you might want to wait a few days or so first. Let the idea sit in your mind for a while.
    Doing so can give the idea some time to mature a bit, time to solidify the characters and the plot in your mind. You may also come up with some crucial details to add to the story, saving serious re-writing time. Also, in waiting a little while, when the initial excitement fades a bit, it can be a lot easier to focus on writing one chapter at a time (you know, instead of trying to write your way through a hurricane of what-ifs that pop up whenever you think of the story).
    How long do you usually wait before beginning a first draft?

1 Timothy 4:12

 

"Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity."

1 Timothy 4:12

Crash And Burn

    Life is not a smooth road. It has bumps, it has sharp turns . . . and sometimes it flips the car upside-down. Completely upside-down, and everything's broken, and there's pain, and one is worried sick about everything.
    It's bound to happen at least once. It's very unpleasant when it does. Sometimes it seems to just be random, and other times it's because of a bad decision. Things are especially unpleasant when it's the latter.
    But God is here for us. When we crash in life, He's by our side. And He's promised us that whatever happens--even when we crash and burn--He has a plan that works for our good. Yes, things are broken around us. Yes, there's pain. But we can have faith that even in that, God is faithful. He will make things work out for our good.

Glean From Everything!

    Gleaning.  It basically means to collect or gather something. You would glean berries from berry bushes, glean apples from an apple tree, and glean information from a source.
    I think gleaning from everything is an awesome way to improve as a writer. You can learn from almost anything--including an addicting TV series, the way someone talks, a crummy experience, or a story you read. Jotting down notes and reminiscing certain things you noticed can give you ideas about a different design technique, another way to describe things, what makes characters likeable, what makes dialogue realistic . . . all useful things that a writer can use. It's not copying someone else or stealing their ideas, but learning from them and adapting similar skills. Like learning from a teacher.
    So what do you think? Do you have a specific note-taking/gleaning technique?

Psalm 46:1-3

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; though its waters roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah."

Psalm 46:1-3 (NKJ)

Having Christian Friends

    Friends. Are. Awesome. The time you spend with them can give you wonderful memories you'll keep all of your life. You may have a friend you've known for years; a friend who's like a sister or brother to you. You might have friends you've gone on adventures with, have laughed with, and have done projects with. When you're with a friend, things can be great for everybody--especially if that friend is a Christian like you, because that makes you siblings in Christ!
    Another wonderful thing about that besides having wonderful times together is that you can also get through tough times with each other. When you're discouraged or afraid or downhearted, a friend who's also a follower of Christ can comfort you, encourage you, and pray for you!

A Character's Vocabulary

    Vocabulary. An array of applicable words. It's great/fantastic/magnificent for a person/individual/soul to have an extensive/vast vocabulary. With it you can appeal to many different kinds of people.
    In fiction though, I think it's important to limit a character's vocabulary.
    Only to a certain degree. The way a character talks partly shows their personality and their upbringing. For example, a creative person might use analogies a lot to describe something, and a character who wields sarcasm like a weapon might make up his own phrases and nicknames. In addition, a person's accent might also change the way they pronounce words, and they could use terms that would be completely foreign to a person in another location.
    The way characters talk and the words they speak can help shape what they're like; but if a character uses different kinds of phrases (like telling someone "dunno" in one chapter and saying "I haven't got the faintest clue" to the same person in the next scene), it can be out of character. Including if the figure of speeches are out of context with the time period/setting of the story.
    What kind of vocabularies do your characters have? Do they have a favorite catchphrase?

Psalm 37:11

 

"But the meek shall inherit the earth, and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace."

Psalm 37:11 (NKJ)

Moments Alone With God

    Sometimes you just have to get away.
    The world can be confusing, complicated, and really hurtful sometimes. Situations can bring and break you down, and make you afraid or feel hopeless. It really makes a Christian crave God's presence.
    One-on-one time with Him is so wonderful. To just be alone with God and talk with Him, to hear what He has to say in His Word; it brings needed healing. Being in God's presence gives peace, an understanding that He loves us immensely, remembrance He is always there to help us through any problem we face, and that things are going to be okay. Moments alone with God strengthen our relationship with Him, and strengthens us as well to face the problems in life and to overcome them.

While You're Doing The Dishes

Hello, blog world. So sorry that I haven't posted anything in a while! :( I'll try to get back into posting regularly.

"The best time for planning a book is while you're doing the dishes."

~Agatha Christie

    Ideas can come during strange times, can't they?
    It's really cool when they do! You can be doing something completely ordinary (like walking to class or vacuuming) when this brilliant idea suddenly strikes. Then more little ideas connect to it, and the story forms in your mind, and viola! Same with plotting too--you can be doing regular stuff when you notice something and think, "hmm, what if that happened next to my main character?"
    Brainstorming sessions are fantastic for coming up with ideas, but sometimes ideas come when you don't expect it. When you're active, and your mind is stimulated, and you can daydream. Like when taking a walk around the neighborhood or (as Dame Christie states in this quote) while doing the dishes
    When do you usually get inspired? :)

Psalm 3:3

 

"But You, O LORD, are a shield for me, my glory and the One who lifts up my head."

Psalm 3:3 (NKJ)

In Their Element

    Today's writing topic: the character's "element."
    You know, like the phrase "he's in his element"? The place where they thrive, so to speak. Where the character feels most comfortable and does what they do best. For an athlete, that would be the playing field during a game. As for a pianist, they would be in their element seated at the piano, playing the melodious keys to their heart's content. A fighter's element is in the battle, a sailor's is at sea. A dancer's element is when they're dancing, whether that be in private or in front of a large audience.
    People--real and fictional--can be different when they're in their element. They can be far more focused, more confident, and they show more of who they really are. A character in their element shows him/herself at their best, and also shows what makes them come alive.
    What is your character's "element"? What are they like when they're in it? What are they like when they're not in their element?

Psalm 145:8

 

"The LORD is gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger and great in mercy."

Psalm 145:8 (NKJ)

 

 

    This is a comfort verse. Short and sweet, it can put you at ease when doubts and fears are swarming. It silences lies and gives you something true you can cling to.

    God's grace is vaster than our mistakes, His compassion and mercy abounding, and He doesn't instantly become furious with us when we slip up. God loves us, and He's incredibly patient, caring, and forgiving.

Talking With Your Characters

    Do you ever talk to your characters?
    Maybe not out loud, but what about on paper? Do you ever just take out a sheet of paper, write down a question, and imagine how your main protagonist or antagonist or supporting character would respond? Or maybe not ask questions, but just talk with them. Write up what they would say about certain subjects, how they would react in certain situations.
    It's a great writing exercise to flesh out your characters and to get used to writing about them. Seeing how they'd respond to certain questions that the other characters in the story wouldn't ask, finding out what makes them tick. Talking with your characters brings you closer to them, helps you understand them better, which can improve the way you write about them.
    Do you ever talk with your characters? What kind of questions do you ask?

Psalm 143:5

Hey, blogging world. :) I won't be around tomorrow, so I'm posting the Sunday Bible Verse today.

 

 

"I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your works; I muse on the work of Your hands."

Psalm 143:5 (NKJ)

    I was re-reading my old diaries earlier today, and I was amazed by some of the things I suddenly remembered. Funny moments that I laughed at, hard times that I thought about solemnly, good times at which I smiled on, occasions where God did things so incredible that I just had to read the passage again. Remembering all those old times was really awesome.
    And it strengthened me. Looking back, I saw how God was always with me, planning things with care, strengthening me, and bringing wonderful blessings from things that initially sent me into Panic Mode. What looked like a mess then looks like a masterpiece now, and by re-reading my thoughts from then, I remembered valuable lessons I'd learned.
    Now I'm not suggesting we think about the past all of the time--but every now and then, it's good to remember the days of old. To remember how God has always worked things out. Don't you agree? :)

Andy Griffith On God's Grace

"I firmly believe that in every situation, no matter how difficult, God extends grace greater than the hardship, and strength and peace of mind that can lead us to a place higher than where we were before."

~Andy Griffith

It's What You (What They) See

 

"It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see."

~Henry David Thoreau

    Not only is this quote great for application in life, but I think it can also be used in writing.
    Even when writing in third person narration, you could improve descriptions by describing the thing/person/place as the main character would see it. For example, maybe when the main character sees one kid in a park tease another, they would be reminded of being bullied themselves long ago and get angry. Or if they saw a tree with thousands of bright green leaves, they might become sad because they're reminded of a long-gone friend who loved to climb such trees. Or if they saw a rabbit, the main character could become happy and laugh at the memory of something funny that happened the month before involving a rabbit.
    Such observations and how they react to it can show readers the character's personality, their past, and what makes them tick.
    What would your main character see in an old, dusty book? Dark rainclouds? A cat? An old record player?

Proverbs 16:24

 

"Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the bones."

Proverbs 16:24 (NKJ)

    It's true! A depressing, frustrating day can be brightened up a bit when somebody says something really nice. Like good news, a compliment, even a really funny joke. They put a smile on someone's face and make them feel glad, which can make the rest of the day better.
    Pleasant words really are like a cold glass of tropical punch in the middle of a hot, simmering summer day. They're refreshing and sweet.
    Have you ever had a bad day brightened up by someone's kind words? What were they?

Do It

 

    Procrastination is like a sinkhole, isn't it? It's so easy to put something off! Especially when you can make up excuses to do it later, or find something else that "needs" to be done before you do it. And sometimes, you just don't feel like doing it--you're more in the mood to do something else.
    But then time flies and two days have gone by. Then another day, and another, and another. Then a week has passed. And soon enough, it's too late to do the thing. Sometimes the consequences are small and bearable, but other times, consequences are . . . not so small and bearable.
    My advice is: do it. Just do it. Despite how difficult it might be, even if you really don't feel up to the task, get it done and over with. When you do, it can be very rewarding.
    Procrastination is a beast that must be slain!
    Do you have a specific way to beat procrastination?

Little Mistakes

    Everyone makes mistakes--big ones that makes one embarrassed every time they think about it, and little ones they can shrug off.
    Characters definitely make mistakes too. In the stories they're in, they typically make big mistakes. Huge mistakes that change the course of their life and/or their journey, mistakes that hurt or ruin a relationship with another character. But what about the little mistakes?
    I think that a character should make one or two little mistakes in their story. Something that doesn't make a dramatic change, but isn't completely pointless either. A mistake that causes something, but doesn't have long-lasting consequences. Like running into a wall or misplacing something.
    If used correctly, little mistakes can be used to set a scene or reveal a part of the character or push the plot forward a bit. Like for example, a scene could be opened with the protagonist calling another character by the wrong name. This gives an opportunity to introduce the other character and/or to show that the main character is somewhat distracted with something else on their mind.
    So what do you think? Does your character make little mistakes?

Jeremiah 1:8

"'Do not be afraid of their faces, for I am with you to deliver you,' says the LORD."

Jeremiah 1:8

    I can't be the only one who's afraid of making people angry with my words, right?
    Surely it's understandable. People are not pleasant when they're angry, and when that unpleasantness is directed towards you, it's not fun. At all.
    As Christians, we want to talk about God, tell people how wonderful it is to have a relationship with Him, and show them how to get saved. But when we do that, there's a real risk of being mocked, branded as narrow-minded, or of making that person really ticked off at us. Of course no one wants that to happen--so a lot of people are scared of mentioning God at all.
    But God encourages us and tells us not to be afraid. He is with us all the time, and He'll give us the right words to say. Sure, you might be put down or made fun of. But if someone listens and becomes interested in God as a result, isn't it totally worth it?

Luke 12:25

"'And which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?'"

Luke 12:25

    The answer is . . . no one.
    You can't get taller or solve your problems by worrying. If anything, being worried worsens the situation and it wears you down.
    A lot of people are stressed and sleepless because of worry. They're unable to hope for the future because there are so many things that could go wrong. Some people might think that being worried is logical--that by expecting the worst, it won't hurt as much when it happens. There may even be people who think it's healthy to worry.
    But God says otherwise. He knows that worrying is torturous, and that by worrying, we're denying ourselves hope. Worse than that, we're denying God's promises. He's promised to keep us safe and that everything happens for a good reason. Time and time again, He's told us not to be afraid, but to trust Him.
    God will be with us no matter what we go through. He has a plan that ends in our favor, and He is with us every step of the way. So no matter what happens, we don't have to worry.
    God is with you. Everything will be okay.

Behind Closed Doors

     Five days ago, on the night of the Fourth of July, my cat was sitting in front of the French doors in our living room, gazing longingly out through its doors at the sky.
    He was meowing--and I'm not talking about the cute little "mews" that kittens pine or the silky "meows" that young cats coo. I mean the deep, throaty, low-pitched "mrows" that adult cats apparently like to yowl over and over again early in the morning or in the middle of an otherwise peaceful afternoon--pretty much whenever they want something.
    On that particular night, our cat wanted out. He is a major predator, and by being indoors he was missing out on important prowling time. Not to mention hours he could be spending defending his backyard territory from the other neighborhood cats. He was very indignant about being imprisoned indoors, and so he staged a protest of repetitive, insistent mrowing.
    Of course, we didn't let the cat go outside because it was the Fourth of July. There were at least a dozen bad things that could happen to him, like getting hit by stray sparks from a firework, or being hit by a bicyclist or a car. We were keeping the cat inside for his own safety--not that he realized it.
    I think that's kind of how it is when God closes doors to us in life. He does everything for our safety and welfare, so when He doesn't let us do something, it's because He knows it'll hurt us. Sometimes, we might not see the danger in something God closes a door to--it might be something we really want, something that looks like a boatload of fun. But if God's not letting it happen, it's because He loves us deeply and wants to protect us.
    I think it's really a comfort to know He'll keep us safe like that. Don't you agree?

Try Another Genre

    Boredom. It's unpleasant. It's fatal in writing. And it's one of the main components in writer's block.
    Eventually, most if not all writers get bored of what they're working on--not always a specific project, but sometimes it's a genre one gets tired of. After months of thinking, reading, and writing about the subject, it can seem really old and overused. Ever felt that way?
    Try writing in another genre--not permanently, but temporarily, kind of like a vacation for your brain. That way, your creativity doesn't stop, but it's not running dry either. You have a chance to stretch your wings in another topic, and maybe discover something you love writing about as much as you did with the previous genre.
    Go ahead! Try it! See what happens. :)

Psalm 27:8

"When You said, 'Seek My face,' my heart said to You, 'Your face, LORD, I will seek.'"

Psalm 27:8 (NKJ)

    "Seek My face," God said.
    To seek someone's face is basically to meet up with them and know them better. Kind of like you'd get to know a friend, growing closer to each other and strengthening the friendship. Here, God is giving us an invitation to get to know Him better.
    Why do we have to be the ones to approach? God's not being hard-to-get or anything. He wants us to approach Him because He won't impose on us. He wants us to be fully willing and glad to be in His presence, praying and hearing from Him not out of a sense of duty, but out of an eagerness to know Him better. You know what I mean?
    Well, have a great week, people of Internet land! :)

Songs: Good For The Soul

    Music is really awesome--and beautiful. Harmonious sound that can touch the heart and make one feel certain things.
    Lyrics are similarly amazing. They're words that come together in a certain beat, holding deep, strong meaning. And they too can bring out emotions from people.
    Together, music and lyrics are a powerful combination with unlimited potential.
    A joyful song that sings of the greatest things in life can make a person feel empowered and ecstatic. A sad melody about loss can provoke someone to tears. Songs about a place or a time period or a person can make a person reflective and thoughtful. And songs with a message in them (like to have faith in the Lord when things seem to be rough) give people peace and encouragement.
    Songs are powerful, beautiful, and enjoyable. Good for the soul. Don't you agree? :)

What Doesn't Kill Us

"What doesn't kill us gives us something new to write about."

~Julie Wright

    Isn't that an awesome and true thing?
    Everybody has bad stuff happen to them. But writers can take those opportunities and use them. Get caught in the rain? Perfect--you can write a scene about that with authentic description. Is there a jerk at school who never gets caught or punished for their cruelty? Bam--inspiration for the behavior and antics of an antagonist. Have a less-than-pleasant evening because of a thunderstorm that literally shakes your house? There's a suspenseful scene that could be an opening to a story.
    Have you ever written a story or scene that was inspired by something like that?

Psalm 27:14

   

"Wait on the LORD; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the LORD!"

Psalm 27:14 (NKJ)

    These days, long waits are not common. People can get things in moments with the flick of a switch, the push of a button, even the snapping of fingers. If you want to know something, you Google it. If you want to see a certain movie, there's Netflix. If you have an idea that you want to jot down in seconds rather than minutes, you can type it on a computer or a phone.
    But in this case--getting strength from the Lord--it takes faithful patience. And patience can be difficult to hold when you have a serious problem. It can even be painful, frightening. With high stakes, waiting seems to take a very, very, very long time.
    The psalmist says to be of good courage because God will give us the strength we need. He will help us. And He knows when it's the best time to act. We need to be patient.
    The Lord will come through for us. Just have faith in Him.

Write! (Even When It Hurts)

    Have you ever just really, really, really, really not wanted to write to the point where it's somewhat painful and your mind feels so strained? That you'd rather do anything--even mow the lawn--than write?
    Well . . . my advice is: write anyway.
    Writing is kind of like swimming. When you jump into the pool, it's freezing. Makes you cringe and want to get out of the water. But after a few minutes, you get used to it. And you start to swim. And you realize that swimming is fun and awesome and you don't want to leave--like how when you're caught up in the momentum of writing, you don't want to stop.
    Write, even when it hurts. You might only manage to spit out a few hundred words or you might be swept into an awesome brainstorm. Either way, you get something accomplished. :)

Romans 8:15

"For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry out, 'Abba, Father.'"

Romans 8:15 (NKJ)

 

    "Abba" in the English language, basically means "Daddy." An affectionate term for one's father.
    One of the great things about our relationship with the Lord is that we've been adopted into God's family.  He is our Father--our Abba, who loves us more than anyone else--and He sees us as His precious children. As our Father, God cares for us, helps us grow, defends us, and picks us up when we fall. He's always there when we need encouragement, and He gives us the strength and wisdom we need to get through life.
    Isn't it wonderful?

Chatting With God

    God wants a real relationship with us. A thriving relationship wherein there's genuine love and excitement and fun. Communication is a huge part of relationships like that.
    God talks to us through His Word, through situations, and sometimes through miraculous ways. We talk to Him through prayer.
    But sometimes, prayer can get really tough. You might not know what to say--or you might feel that you're supposed to say a certain phrase or request a certain thing every time you pray. And then prayer becomes hollow, boring, ritualistic. It doesn't seem heartfelt--it doesn't seem real.
    God doesn't want that. He doesn't want to hear a robotic recital. He wants us to like prayer, to be comfortable speaking with Him, and to have great conversations with Him. Kind of like how we'd talk to a dear friend or to a parent we're close to. He wants to hear us tell Him what's on our minds, how we feel, what we're thinking about. Casually chatting with God is a good thing (as long as there's due respect, of course) and it's a great part of our relationship with Him.
    Do you have those kind of conversations with the Lord?

Make Them Think They're Right

    Nobody believes that they're wrong about something they believe in--it's contradicting. A dog who chases cats doesn't think its evil to do so, nor does a cat believe that his/her playing with and eating birds is cruel and merciless (unless of course animals are all secretly evil maniacs. I doubt it).
    Likewise, I think a majority of villains/antagonists in fiction are like that. They don't think they're evil. In their minds, their actions are justified, they're doing what's best. The protagonist is the one doing evil things, and that they must be stopped.
    In essence, antagonists think that they're right, that they're the good guys.
    What's your antagonist's reasoning for their actions? Do they think they're right, or do they know they're being immoral but want to use that to their advantage?

Psalm 40:4

"Blessed is that man who makes the LORD his trust . . ."

Psalm 40:4 (NKJ)

    In some cases, the word "blessed" can mean "happy." I believe this is one of those situations.
    When someone trusts in God--completely believing that His promises are true and that He can and will protect us--then that person no longer has a reason to fear or worry or be sad. They fully realize God's love, grace, and strength, and they receive the joy that God gives so freely.
    Feeling stressed today? Worried? Disappointed? Trust in the Lord, remember His promises, and you're bound to feel a lot more blessed.

An Age Doesn't Last Forever

     Generally at this time, it's the end of the school year. For some, it's the end of high school. Others have a year or more to go before finishing up. Either way, this is a time of mixed emotions. Elation and a bit of melancholy.
    Where some people are thrilled to complete high school, others are sad that it's over.
    But you don't have to get depressed about the school year ending. It's not the end of happy days. There are many, many chapters in life, and this is just one of them. There will be more happy times--only those of the future will find you changed. Maybe taller. Smarter. More experienced. And with more memories to look back on from time to time.
    An age doesn't last forever. Things change--but with God in your life, they change for the better. When a chapter in your life ends, God wants to follow it up with an even greater one. Another adventure, a new story, more fun. :)
    Isn't it great? Doesn't it fill you with hope?

Change Their Lives

    Earlier, I was thinking about a particular series I like--thinking about what exactly makes it so awesome. And one of the things I thought made the story great is how the main character changes the lives of others around him.
    An inner change (also called character development) in the main character is important. But I think that it's also really great for a story when the main character changes other character's lives (or their day, depending on just how major or minor they are). It's a beautiful touch for a story, it can change the main character him/herself, and it can get the main character new allies--or new enemies. Having the main character's life collide with another character's creates a plot thread, and/or more conflict--which can be great for a story.
    Do your main characters change other character's lives?

1 Samuel 3:21

". . . For the LORD revealed Himself to Samuel in Shiloh by the word of the LORD."

1 Samuel 3:21 (NKJ)

    He revealed Himself to Samuel--one of the greatest prophets in history--by His word.
    That's one of the ways God speaks to us as well--through His Word, the Bible. Seriously, you can be reading through the Word and suddenly--wham! You see a passage that speaks right to you, a passage that completely answers a question you've had on your mind, or a passage that gives you peace when you're having a rough time.
    God really does talk to us through the Bible--it's His love letter to us, His instructions on how to live life in the best possible way, a medium through which He speaks to us.
   It's definitely worth reading over and over again. :)

Seasons Of Silence

 

    I think every believer at some point comes to a time in their life where they can't feel anything or see God in their life at all. Nothing seems to be happening. Things aren't exciting anymore. You just feel absolutely dry and there's a long, seemingly never ending silence.
    But it won't last forever. No, this is only a season--a phase in life. Something that only happens for a little while, then passes. A season of silence, so to speak.
   And seasons of silence aren't necessarily bad. They're like breaks between bouts of battles, some calm time to get stronger in God's Word. It can also be taken as an opportunity to live by faith instead of by sight or by feeling. To show that we can draw near to the Lord and love Him even when we can't feel anything.
    Do you know what I mean? What do you do during seasons of silence? :)

Story Settings

    Think about your favorite book for a moment.
    Now think about it's setting, where and when the story takes place.

    Now think of that story and its characters taking place in a completely different setting--like a contemporary story/characters in a dystopia setting, or a dystopia story/characters in a normal, happy, Mayberry-like town without any disastrous qualities.
    It totally makes things different, right? Sometimes that can be a good thing. Mixing two different genres can sometimes make a story premise seem really interesting, but other times it makes the story just . . . weird . . . and not in a good way.

   That's why it's important to make sure the setting you choose for your story is the right one--and not only fitting, but well-written as well. A writer wants to make their story setting interesting, intriguing, and a fun place for the characters to do their thing. Not a boring, dull place that you don't care enough to visualize as you read.

    Fitting for the character and the setting, not like a cardboard cutout, and interesting. All good things one would want their setting to be.

1 Corinthians 16:14

 

"Let all that you do be done with love."

1 Corinthians 16:14 (NKJ)

    Why do something if you don't like to do it?
    Not counting chores or other mandatory duties, of course.
    The best things made are those that were made with the labor of love. A real passion to create, a determination to work hard because you deeply care about it. Love is the strongest, most powerful motivation--and sometimes, it's all that gets you to continue on when you'd otherwise want to give up. Love for something is very important in writing and other ministries.
    But I think this Bible verse applies not only to using your talents, but also in "normal" stuff life as well. Like going to school/work--you can do that with love by brightening your teacher/boss's day with enthusiasm and diligence.
    It really makes things better--tasks become more pleasant for everyone. Don't you agree? :)

Life's A Story

    Wow. I've been rereading a diary I wrote in during a tumultuous time in my life and . . . wow.
    It's amazing how our lives are like a story--some days it might not be so obvious, but there are major changes going on, events that God orchestrates. If you look back at all the details, you can see God's hand in your life, leading you along, protecting you, causing things to happen in your life that make things better. It's phenomenal . . .
    The Bible is like that too. Books like Esther and Job are biographies. Books like Joshua, Judges, 1&2 Samuel, and Acts is a recording of events that happen to a certain people. The Psalms show the hearts of the psalmists, what they were going through, what was on their minds during difficult and emotional times
    Life is exactly like a story, I think. And God is the wonderful, awesome Author who writes it.
    Do you agree? :)

Add Personality

   

 

    Have you ever quit reading a book because you felt it was dry? That there was something amiss in its writing, something that made it difficult to go on. It wasn't the plot, and it wasn't the storyworld, and the characters weren't unlikeable . . .
    Maybe it was the narration. It could be that the writing voice was drab, repetitive, nondescript. That it had no real voice.
    Having personality in the POV is vital--even if it's in 3rd person narration. The voice in the story sets a mood that floats around the reader as they read. Having a fun, exciting, awesome mood or a slow, deep, sweet mood is great depending on your genre. But having a drab mood worded blandly is not so great for any type of story.
    Using unique wording and describing things in a personified way are a few ways to add personality. Like instead of just writing: a blue flower, you could write: a small blossom with the color of the Atlantic's waves.
    So, what do you think? :)

Romans 5:20

". . . But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more,"

Romans 5:20 (NKJ)

    I used to be constantly haunted by guilt about the dumb things I did before becoming a Christian--stupid, hurtful, childish things. Embarrassing things. It's painful to think about, and those memories just kept coming back to me on a daily basis. The guilt made life miserable.
    But one day, God got me to understand something this Bible verse exemplifies: His grace is greater and more powerful than not only the small mistakes, but the biggest sins--His grace forgives me of all the sins I committed.
    There's no limit to how many mistakes and sins God will forgive if we turn to Him with honest repentance. And He won't give up on us when we keep slipping up because His forgiveness is so vast.
    So we don't have to live with haunting guilt--we don't have to listen to the voices that continuously tell us we should be ashamed. God's grace has us completely covered, absolutely forgiven, totally redeemed.

Not A Robot

    Repetitious conversation with meaningless words are not good between friends, spouses, or family--often, it indicates that there's something amiss in the relationship. I think it's the same with our relationship with God.
    There's a lot of people who say the same prayer to God every day without meaning the words, people who recite without actually speaking to Him, like they're talking to a brick wall. The words are often pious, polite--but cold and emotionless. Robotic. And God doesn't want that.
    He wants a real, genuine relationship with us where we have deep and meaningful conversations with Him. Where we're comfortable speaking with Him, being in His presence often, and have His perfect peace with us everywhere. He wants us to have fun with Him, chat with Him, go on adventures with Him. He wants the real you, not a robot.
    Having this kind of real relationship with God is truly awesome. It makes you feel so alive.
    Can I get an amen?

Luke 8:17

 

"For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light."

Luke 8:17 (NKJ)

    Eventually, everything that was hidden will be known. All the secrets will be revealed.
    Every intention--bad and good--will be shown, every bad thing done in secret will be exposed, and the most important truth--rejected so often these days--will finally be shown to all as reality. Nothing will be covered up, nothing true will be ignored.
    This is a breath of fresh air, isn't it? To know that one day--perhaps very soon--every evil thing that was done and hidden will be revealed, justice will finally be served. Lies will be obliterated, and everyone will realize that God's truth--the truth we speak--is genuine and real.
    That will be such an awesome day, won't it? :)

Make The Most Of It

    Today, while I was walking back to my house, it rained--and it wasn't just a drizzle, it was rain that was unusually fierce and hard for the area I live in. Walking through it, I got wet. And I mean really, really, really wet.
    The rain was pelting down on me, my eyes were stinging from it, my precious denim jacket was getting drenched, my socks were even getting wet, so was the stuff inside my backpack, and I don't think there was a strand of dry hair left on my head by the time I got to shelter.
    It was not fun, getting very, very wet. I know this weather was nothing in comparison to the weather others have to face, but  people in my area aren't used to such heavy rain. Plus I didn't have an umbrella or a hoodie.  I got so wet and cold that I couldn't feel my pinkie toe when I got indoors. I felt a temptation to brood over the timing of this weather.
    But I didn't. Instead, as I was being rained on, I thought of how this would help me write scenes about a character being soaked in the rain. And with that thought, I daydreamed a bit about such scenes and characters, stories that would be a part of. It turned out to be really fun and awesome.
    So I guess it goes to show: making the most of things really does make situations better. I hope you find that to be true as well. :)

Likeable Characters = Happy Readers

    Think for a moment about your favorite character from a book, or even a TV show or movie.
    Why is s/he your favorite? Is it their looks, their awesome abilities, their hilarious clumsiness, their merciless sarcasm, their unique look on the world? Do you like them most of all because they're a lot like yourself, or because they've got qualities you want to have?
    Chances are, you may have said yes to at least one of those questions. I believe that the stuff listed are some of the components for a great and likeable character, the best kind of character.
    Reading a book, you're not only going on the same journey as the main characters, but you spend time with them, in their heads, with their friends. As a writer, you'd want your main character to be someone the readers want to spend time with. After all, who would you rather hang out with: a charming, funny, and smart guy who likes having the same kind of fun you enjoy, or a jerk who hates everyone, has nothing in common with you at all, and is always complaining about something?
    Readers will want to read a book about a likeable character. Characters they can relate to, laugh with, have a great time with, characters they'll want to be around. Sure, they'll still have issues (all people do) but this is also really good for a character because readers will want to see them overcome those issues.
    Well, I hope this helps. Have fun with your characters! :)

Psalm 37:8

"Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; do not fret--it only causes harm."

Psalm 37:8

    It is very, very, very easy to get angry or worried, isn't it?
    Especially when somebody is annoying you, or when it looks like you or something you care about is going to be ruined. When the jerk sitting next to you or disaster strikes, so does the temptation to lash back or curl up into a tiny shivering ball. Often, a person does so, and they feel better/justified for a moment or two.
    However, whenever God tells us not to do something, there's a really good reason for it.
    The fact is, anger burns--it burns the person you're angry at, and it burns you as well. Letting fury loose often causes damage emotionally, relationship-wise, and sometimes physically. Anger also often leads to bitterness, which lingers longer. And once fear gets its claws into you, it's hard to get rid of. A person tends to remain afraid, become afraid of more things, it weakens them, and it paralyzes them. Slowly, fear tears a person down.
    So there are very good reasons to not be angry or fearful--especially one.
    That reason is that the Lord is with us. He is our avenger and He does not allow injustice to go unpunished. He sees that jerk annoying you, and He'll take care of it in the best way. He also sees your problems, all your fears, and He's infinitely stronger and more powerful than it.
    So we can relax, not get angry, and not be fearful. Isn't that neat?

He Understands Misunderstandings

 

    One of the most complicated and embarrassing type of problems are misunderstandings. They are the worst.
    It's when people think you did something that you didn't, or when they mistake you for something else. It can make you look really, really, really bad, and the embarrassment can last a long time. Often, when I get caught up in a misunderstanding, I get a feeling of helplessness--a feeling that no one understands me, and there's nothing I can do about it, that I'll always be condemned.
    But that's not true. God understands us in every situation. He knows our hearts, what our intentions are. He has also personally experienced misunderstandings when He walked the earth as Jesus of Nazareth. People misunderstood what He said, what He taught, and who He is, and they hated Him because of it.
    God understands the aching that comes from misunderstanding--He really understands, and He wants to comfort us. I've found that this gives great peace--don't you agree? :)

All Good Writing Begins With . . .

"Almost all good writing begins with terrible first efforts. You need to start somewhere."

~Anne Lamott

    More than once I've looked over something I'd just written and groaned--most times mentally, but sometimes audibly. The word choice was all wrong, the sentence structures seemed out of whack, the MC's vocabulary was not only identical to other characters'  but it also didn't even match her own personality. The rough-draft-ness of the first draft is so irritating and depressing that sometimes it makes me want to give up on the story.
    That's why I'm so relieved to hear quotes like this one. To know that it's okay to have terrible first drafts. That other authors go through this and that even great works were like this once. It encourages me to not give up. It's very reassuring.
    Don't you agree? :)

Hebrews 11:6

"But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him."

Hebrews 11:6 (NKJ)

    God adores it when we put our faith in Him, when we not only trust Him but trust in Him.
    To have faith in someone is to believe that they are telling the truth and that they can accomplish what they say they can. When we put our faith in the Lord, we're trusting that He will work everything out perfectly--which He will. When we put our faith in God, we aren't afraid at all--which can be difficult, but it's possible to do. Plus, God appreciates it--He loves it when we believe in Him.
    Put your faith in the Lord. You can count on Him to solve the problem--He's never failed before. The Lord has a great plan that will be worth any trouble--just trust Him and trust in Him. :)

Ray Bradbury On Hiding Ignorance

"If you hide your ignorance, no one will hit you and you'll never learn."

~Ray Bradbury

    Who likes being hit? Not me. I'd rather not get smacked physically or figuratively. I'd also rather never be wrong either--I'd prefer to be correct in everything I do. Who doesn't feel that way?
    But there are times in life where we don't know something and we realize that--but we're afraid of asking for fear of being thought of as ignorant or stupid or something. So we stay silent and try to guess at what to do.
    But really, it'd be better for us to just go out and ask for an explanation. Sure, we might sound a little unknowledgeable--but the judgment, if there is any, probably won't last for more than a day. Plus you will officially learn quickly what you didn't know before.
    It's okay to admit it when you don't know something. Don't be afraid to ask.
    I hope you have a great weekend, citizens of blog land! :)