The Joy of Writing

I love to write. Writing opens up something inside of me and lets all of the pent-up ideas that jumble around in my head out in a story that usually ends up far surpassing what I hoped it could be. When asked why I write, my answer is usually short- it’s a hobby, I enjoy the escape, it’s fun to see where the stories end up. The truth (which I generally don’t have time to explain because long-winded answers aren’t usually what the asker is looking for) is that writing fulfills that part inside of me that calls for something more.

I don’t know if you have ever had the feeling that you are meant for something greater, something far different than where you are, something above going to work, to school, or taking care of the home and family. I love my life. Life is amazing and I wouldn’t change anything about where I am right now. I love being home with my children and watching them go on their own adventures. I love the time with my family and the fact that we get to experience this incredible journey through life together. I am exactly where I want to be, and I know there are those who can’t say that and so I am very grateful for where I am.

What I want to point out by this is that I don’t need to escape. I don’t have anything to escape from and I am happy, but there is that little seed inside that calls for the beyond, for pushing myself above my limits and helping others, saving the world, ending wars, the far-reaching things that are above the simple acts of one person. I can help in my own way, but I want to do more.

This is why I write characters who sword-fight, who change into mythological creatures, who fight to save more than just themselves. My characters’ lives reach beyond the simple boundaries; they save damsels in distress who aren’t just simpering, helpless girls, but real women with their own ideas and dreams and who usually end up doing a lot of the saving themselves. I write men who are brave, defiant, and foolhardy in the face of danger because those they are saving are worth more to them than their own lives. I love stories of gladiators, werewolves, knights, Duskies, dragons, shifters, princes and princesses because they truly have the power to affect the lives around them for good or bad.

I hope that through my writing, I am able to give that to others as well, to help them live beyond their boundaries and realize that through stories they have no limits. When you feel that inkling that you were meant for greater things, that you are a hero in your heart, or that you are meant to change the world, do what you can to create the change in your own world, and if you are at a loss how to do so, delve into books where others’ actions match how you feel. I am inspired by characters in books, and I hope that someday my stories can inspire others. It is an awesome task to consider, and one whose challenge brings a smile to my face. In the words of the great Barney, Challenge accepted!