A few weeks ago I wrote about my aspiration and commitment to write fifty thousand words during this month of November. I am a writer. Writers write. That is what we do. This is not as easy as I expected, though, partly because of what I am calling “the stamina issue.” My body has tried to rebel in various ways over the past week so that I do not sit “her” down at the computer for yet another writing stint that will last for hours. Also, I did not clear my slate of my other work and responsibilities for this month, so I am squeezing in the rest of my life to these long writing days. (I think I missed a few dinners this past week.) And, so maintaining this pace for these weeks has been perhaps the biggest challenge. (I long for the dark days of early December when the alarm won’t have to sound its awful blare and I can catch up a bit on pure, unadulterated s…l…e…e…p!) “The stamina issue” also pertains to my now-daily fear upon awakening: The well has run dry! I have nothing more to write! But of course, it is faith that keeps us going through challenges, even these self-imposed ones. I let the fearful story go and I begin to type; the words just come, sometimes haltingly and sometimes with the power of water rushing a broken dam.
And, of course, for all things difficult, there are many great blessings:
· the abundance of support from friends and loved ones (thank you!)
· the unexpected insights that rise up out of the writing like glowing gems
· conversations during this past week that have sustained my enthusiasm, or offered sheer comfort
· walks along beaches, in forests, through canopied pathways, in sun or torrents: being outside
· knowing that other writers have done this, and are – right now – typing toward their 50K goal
· hugs from friends
· the wind in the bamboo chimes
· cold, clear nights in which the waning moon still shines brightly in my windows
· watching the autumn season progress: many colorful leaves are still clinging to the trees
· invitations to brunch, dinner, and a care package of gourmet foods - including (of course) chocolate!
· seeing tragedy and crisis with those around me and feeling grateful for my simple, easy life
· knowing that this is, indeed, a privilege; to spend my days writing is my bliss (even wearily)!
· great health, even when the temporary aches and pains try to convince me otherwise
· this breath, right now!
These add beauty to my life. And there is so, so much more for which I am grateful.
For those of you who are following the challenge and holding me accountable, here is my
All blog photographs taken by Jennifer J. Wilhoit unless otherwise noted.
