Keeping the Passion Alive

"Fiction reveals truth that reality obscures." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

What drives you to write? Is it because, as the quote says, you want to reveal truth that reality has obscured? Or maybe it's because you've always loved to tell stories and entertain people. But have you ever sat down to really think about where this crazy passion to create fiction came from?

I've been reading many author interviews and biographies recently. One thing I have noticed is each author has a story of their own. Some people have said they were born with a "pen in hand" and have been writing since they could read, but others have said that their interest in writing didn't spark until later in life. Whatever the reason may be, if you have the desire to write and you honestly can't explain it or make it disappear, then it's probably there for a reason. It's your God-given passion, which cannot be explained or vanished.

I have many moments when I just have to write. It seems like everywhere I go I come up with story or character ideas, which explains why some authors say to carry a notebook around. But the other day as I was in the car traveling during spring break, I was seriously thinking why everyone doesn't like to write. I mean, it doesn't make sense why some people can't stand writing or even reading! This gift God has given us is so exciting. We can not only make up stories and transport people into different locations and periods of life, but we can lead people to Christ through a few simple sentences. I think that's so amazing.

But then I had a thought. What if the fire inside does die, and writing no longer is a hobby, but instead becomes just work instead? I was also reading an interview with a popular young adult author. She said her passion to write returned as she was writing her latest book and it seemed like a hobby again instead of a job.

So I have a question for you authors and freelance writers. Have you ever felt like writing has now became your job instead of something you enjoy doing?

I think writing is an amazing treasure God has given us. As we pursue this industry, we should keep letting God stir up the passion inside of us. I can understand how writing can eventually turn into a job rather than work, especially when deadlines are involved. Not to mention some authors have mentioned how writing can become very lonely at times. What things do you do for that passion to be stirred up each time you sit down to write?

Here are a few ways that might help to get your creative writing juices flowing again.

• Go to Barnes&Noble and buy yourself a Starbucks drink while you're at it. The smell of books and coffee always gets me inspired to write!
• Go to the beach and listen to the waves crash and kids laugh as you write.
• Go to the park and find a nearby tree to write under. I've never done this, but I'm sure it's better than writing at your desk!
• Draw pictures of your characters, or even your setting. If you're like me, though, and art isn't exactly a talent of yours, then choose what actors/actresses should star for each character in your story if it was made into a film.
• Watch movies, read books, and think about how powerful storytelling is
• Drink coffee, eat chocolate... those don't have to be explained. ;)

I think writing can be as exciting or as dreadful as you make it.

We need to remember, though, that the most important reason we write is to show Christ's love to others. He has given us this desire, so let's use it to be a light for others!

What are some ways you keep the burning fire inside of you alive? Why do you write in the first place?