We Want You...To Be a Writer, too."

One of the benefits of all of these de-lurkers coming out and commenting is to confirm that Zyra and I really aren't just talking to one or two people and that's it.  Not that those one or two regular commenters aren't very important, it's just nice to hear from others, you know?  One recurring theme I've noticed is many lurkers who say that they don't write.  I'm not saying everyone has to write but it just got me thinking about a few things I might want to say to those people and then, voila, the beauty of having a blog - I get to say those things to them even if they don't want to hear it.

I guess because I enjoy writing so much I feel the necessity to encourage others to give it a shot.  I mean I get that it just isn't for everyone, but if you have at least THOUGHT about it, entertained the idea for one iota of a second, then you have desire to write and, in my opinion, have nothing to lose if you pursue it.  How many other hidden, scary desires can you say that about?  You don't HAVE to share what you write, (although you know we'd all like to see it).  But if that's what's stopping you from writing, don't let it.  Just get it out on paper with the understanding amongst your inner self that you never intend to share it with anyone.  Don't let US be your roadblock.

The thing about writing, in my opinion, is perspective.  Everyone has a different perspective on everything.  It may be similiar or in agreement to what someone else has written or said, but when you write it down, it's yours.  And if it's grammar or spelling or punctuation that you're letting slow you down, none of that affects perspective. 

I have a son that has a penchant for writing.  He takes notes on his iTouch about whatever strikes him.  Now I know the majority of the reason I enjoy reading what he has written is because he is my son and by default whatever he creates is amazing.  But it's more than that.  For instance, when he writes about a road trip that I was with him nearly 100% of the time and then I read about it, I get to see that same trip through his eyes and it's an entirely different journey.  That's particularly awesome.  Now, he's only 10 so grammar, spelling and punctuation are not at their best, but his story comes through regardless (and that's what beta readers are for anyway).

So, it's another Han and Leia story and every aspect of their lives has already been done to infinity?  Until we've heard YOUR take on it, we haven't seen everything.  All I'm saying is, that big or little idea that keeps rolling around in your head?  That tiny piece of dialogue that you run through your mind while driving home from work?  That cute or funny or sexy idea that you thought of the other day and then dismissed it?  Write it down.  That's how I started.  Worry about finding the courage to share it later.

Well, that's it from the soap box for today, folks.  Now go forth and write!