Tag: Business of writing

Writer’s Log – June 16, 2023

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Jim Kepler is a straw hat fedora at Starbucks

A Strange Record Heat

It’s Friday, June 16, 2023, and it’s hot. Dallas, Texas is where I call home. The heat index on Thursday was 109 F degrees. Thursday Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) tied a record. The dew point at DFW airport at 2 p.m. topped 80 degrees. The last time the dew point was this high was on June 14, 1997 (26 years ago). Wow! The dew point is how much water is in the air. The dew point plus temperature equals a misery index in my mind.

Slept Almost 12-Hours

Yesterday I slept for almost twelve hours. No, I didn’t stay up all night. My bedtime was just before eleven PM and I got up a few minutes before noon. I don’t know whether to say yea to me or what’s happening? Six out of seven nights a week, get eight hours of sleep and average eight hours a day almost every month. So, what’s up with staying in bed half the day?

After waking up, I took my RXs.

My daily devotional time followed The I jumped in the shower, and washing my hair.

Hair washing is a big deal with my to the shoulder blade’s length hair.

Drying the hair takes two to three hours if I let it air dry or ten to fifteen minutes with a blow dryer – which I hate using. I dressed, and it was time to dash out the door and take she who can’t be named on the Internet to lunch with a friend of ours. Both of the ladies and I have lost our spouses to death and cancer. We are all in the eighteen months to five years since our spouse passed time frame.

Lunch With Friends

We met a favorite Greek restaurant in Plano, Texas – Zorbas. I was there from just after 1 PM until I left at 5:30 to go to my Zoom meeting of the 540 Writing Community. The ladies retired to our friend’s house.

After the writing group meeting, I went to our lady friend’s house and visited for another hour.

They enjoyed their favorite adult beverage, made from grapes. I’m a teetotaler and abstain from alcoholic drink. Filling my designated drive role, I drove she who can’t be named on the Internet home before retiring for the evening.

Sleeping late yesterday got me the rest I needed. It did not do any walking or morning writing. As you might have noticed, no writer’s log for yesterday.

Value of Friends Reprised

On Wednesday, I wrote about the value of friends. I’m blessed to have three close male friends, and two other guy friends I know would drop whatever they’re doing if I need them.

As a sixty-nine years old widower, I’m blessed to have a girlfriend – she who can’t be named on the Internet as I call her as she doesn’t want me using her name, likeness or image on the open Internet. I share two other female friends with her. They are like sisters to me. I have a number of lady friends from my online line and local writing groups that from time to time check on me and I see in meetings or at conferences. Additionally, I have my three adult children and their families, plus my vast army of cousins, which I classify as family instead of friends. I am blessed to have these special people in my life. And, I always I room for one more.

Today – June 16th

This morning I got up, dressed, did my RXs, and devotional time and drove to Starbucks where I’m having coffee and writing. Walking at the air-conditioned mall later this morning is on the day’s agenda. We are expecting 100 + F degree weather for today and for at least the next ten days. So I try to walk.

I say try to walk as my right hip is causing me great pain. Watching a couple of videos by physical therapist Bob and Brad on YouTube, which show stretching exercises to help with hip pain, is my first step in resolving the problem. Should I call the rheumatologist and set up an appointment to get some relief? Taht is the question I’m debating.

Reading and a nap are in my afternoon plans. Tonight I am taking she who can’t be named to live community theater.

My rewrites of the recommended edits continue, but are going slow as my motivation is best described as procrastination, where I only do a chapter or two a day instead of knocking it all out in one or two marathon sessions.

And So It Goes

And so it goes.

Well, I wanted to end with “and so it goes” but as I typed the phrase I reflected on Kurt Vonnegut’s “Slaughterhouse-Five” and the phrase. I first read “Slaughterhouse-Five” in 1973, four years after its publication. I was a twenty-year-old university student. Agreeing with writer Salman Rushdie interpretation of the phrase used on Vonnegut’s writing – Rushdie says “so it goes” has become one way in which we verbally shrug our shoulders and accept what life gives us – I see the phrase as more than just accepting what life hands you.

Vonnegut does not use it for that purpose in “Slaughterhouse-Five.”

“So it goes” is not a way of accepting life but, rather, of facing death. It occurs in the text almost every single time someone dies, and only when death is evoked.

I use the phrase as a hybrid of the two, accepting life as it is as I march toward my inevitable death at its unknown future date.

And of course, the selfie is from today.

Writer’s Log – June 14, 2023

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Jim Kepler at Starbucks
Jim Kepler at Starbucks

Five Reason Why Writers Need Local Friends

First, a personal note:

When I awoke this morning, my first thoughts were of my parents. They were married on this date in 1952 at the First Methodist Church in Seguin, Texas. Both are deceased but aren’t forgotten. Happy anniversary dad and mom.

Introduction:

Today is what I like to call a “lunch with Les” Wednesday. He’s been my best guy friend for a quarter of a century. We meet in the late 1990s when both of us worked as information technology support analysts for Interstate Batteries. I reflected on how lucky I am to have a couple of close friends who I talk to almost daily and have lunch with every week.

Having a friend, not just someone who’s an acquaintance, is important. As get get older, we may outlive our spouse (like me), and even start outliving friends. Having friends and adding new ones is important. Besides combating loneliness, having local friends (not just online friends) can be beneficial for writers in several ways.

Here are five reasons why writers need local friends:

Number One – Inspiration and collaboration: 

Local friends can provide inspiration and fresh perspectives that can fuel a writer’s creativity.

Engaging in conversations, sharing ideas, and collaborating on projects can help writers overcome creative blocks and find new directions for their work.

Number Two – Feedback and critique: 

Local friends who are familiar with the writer’s community or genre can provide valuable feedback and constructive criticism on the writer’s work.

Having trusted friends who can offer honest opinions can greatly enhance the quality of the writer’s writing.

Number Three – Networking opportunities: 

Local friends can introduce writers to other individuals in the writing and publishing industry.

They might be aware of literary events, workshops, or writing groups in the area where writers can connect with like-minded individuals, agents, publishers, or editors.

Networking can open doors to new opportunities and help writers advance their careers.

Number Four – Knowledge of local resources: 

Local friends can be a valuable source of information about local resources and opportunities available to writers.

They might be aware of writing retreats, grants, writing competitions, or local publications seeking submissions.

This knowledge can help writers tap into local resources that they may not have otherwise discovered.

Number Five – Emotional support: 

Writing can be a solitary and emotionally challenging endeavor.

Local friends who understand the writer’s struggles and aspirations can provide much-needed emotional support and encouragement.

They can be a sounding board for frustrations, celebrate successes, and offer a sense of belonging to a community of fellow writers.

Conclusion:

While having local friends can be beneficial, it’s worth noting that writers can also find similar support and advantages through online communities, writing groups, and virtual connections.

The key is to surround oneself with supportive individuals who understand the writing process and can provide the necessary support and feedback.

And remember, to have a friend you must be one, and show yourself as friendly.

Writer’s Log – June 13, 2023

Posted in @jimmiekepler, Blog, Books I've Reviewed, Christian Living, Christian Writers, Jim Kepler, Jimmie A. Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Jimmie Kepler, jimmiekepler.com, Poet, Poet's Life, Poetry, Poets, Writer's Life, WritingLeave a comment

The Importance of a Good Writing Area for a Writer: Home Office vs. Coffee Shop

Yes, I’m a Writer

In case you haven’t noticed, I’m a writer. Yes, I confess an addiction to put words in an organized manner of a page. I even sell the collections of words I pen.

Writing Areas

For writers, having a dedicated and comfortable writing area is crucial for fostering creativity, focus, and productivity. A well-designed writing space not only provides a physical space to work but also creates an ambiance that promotes inspiration and concentration. 

Home Office or Coffee Shop Advantages

While both a home office and a coffee shop offer potential writing environments, each has its own unique benefits and drawbacks. In this essay, we will explore the importance of a good writing area and compare the pros and cons of a home office versus a coffee shop for writing.

Ownership and Familiarity

A good writing area provides writers with a sense of ownership and familiarity. 

A home office allows writers to personalize their space according to their preferences, with familiar objects, photographs, or inspirational quotes adorning the walls. This familiarity can create a comfortable and reassuring environment, enhancing one’s creative process. 

On the other hand, coffee shops offer a different kind of atmosphere, often bustling with activity and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Some writers find this ambiance stimulating, as it provides a dynamic backdrop that can inspire new ideas and fresh perspectives.

Facilitates Focus and Minimizes Distractions

A good writing area facilitates focus and minimizes distractions. 

A home office offers the advantage of privacy, allowing writers to shut out external disturbances and immerse themselves in their work. With the ability to control the environment, writers can minimize noise, interruptions, and other distractions that may hinder their concentration. However, a home office may present its own set of distractions, such as household chores, family members, or the temptation to procrastinate. 

In contrast, a coffee shop can provide a semi-public space that naturally limits distractions, as the writer is less likely to be interrupted by domestic responsibilities. The ambient noise in a coffee shop can also act as white noise, helping some writers enter a state of focused flow.

Productivity and Creative Output

A good writing area influences one’s productivity and creative output. 

In a well-organized home office, writers can have easy access to all the resources they need, including reference materials, books, and research documents. This convenience can streamline the writing process, allowing for efficient work and quick reference checks. Additionally, a home office eliminates the time and effort spent commuting to a coffee shop, providing more dedicated writing time. 

Conversely, a coffee shop can offer a change of scenery, which can be especially beneficial for those experiencing writer’s block or feeling uninspired. The lively atmosphere and the presence of other people can inject a sense of energy and motivation into the writing process.

Home Office or Coffee Shop Disadvantages

While both a home office and a coffee shop have their advantages, they also have some drawbacks. 

A home office, for instance, can sometimes become isolating, lacking the social interaction and sense of community that a coffee shop provides. Additionally, the solitude of a home office might result in feelings of loneliness or hinder collaboration opportunities. 

On the other hand, coffee shops may have limited seating availability, noisy patrons, or inconsistent Wi-Fi connections, which can impede productivity and concentration.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a good writing area plays a significant role in a writer’s creative process and overall productivity. Whether it is a home office or a coffee shop, each option offers unique benefits and drawbacks. 

A home office provides familiarity, privacy, and easy access to resources, while a coffee shop offers a dynamic atmosphere and the potential for inspiration. Ultimately, the choice between a home office and a coffee shop depends on individual preferences, working style, and the specific needs of the writer. 

Some writers may thrive in the solitude of a home office, while others may find inspiration in the lively ambiance of a coffee shop. 

The key is to find a writing area that cultivates focus, minimizes distractions, and ultimately fosters a conducive environment for the creative process. 

My Writing Areas Over Time

Starbucks 2023

Jim Kepler in hat at Starbucks
In this photo I am sitting at my writing area at Starbucks.

My writing area at Starbucks

Home office 2023

This is a tour of my bedroom office in The Colony, Texas in June 2023.

Home office 2013

This is a tour of my bedroom office in The Colony, Texas in August 2013.

Writing Life – June 12, 2023

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Hey everyone! 🌞✨What’s up, fellow authors? 🖋️📚 Today, I want to talk about what we value as creators. I got this idea from Joanna Penn. I agree with her. There are three amazing Fs that define our author journeys and why most people write. Most writers are motivated by one of the three Fs. They are Freedom, Fame, and Fortune! Let’s dive in and explore each one! 💪🔥

Freedom

First up, we have Freedom! 🕊️ For some writers the goal is being free. This means breaking free from the day job grind, deciding where we want to live, and choosing when and how we work. It’s all about having enough money to support ourselves and pursuing our passion without limitations. Plus, let’s not forget about being free by maintaining good health by making time for exercise and eating right, so we can continue enjoying life to the fullest even as we get older. We’re in control! 🙌

Fame

Next on the list is Fame! 🌟 For some authors it’s all about wanting our work to be recognized and admired. We seek that special place in people’s hearts where our name becomes synonymous with great storytelling. Winning awards and having our creations resonate with readers are the ultimate goals. Let’s make our mark and leave a legacy for generations to come! 💫

Fortune

And of course, there’s Fortune! 💰💸 Some writers are money driven. Who doesn’t love a little (or a lot) of financial abundance? Some authors aspire to make it rain money, money, money! They want the million dollar book deals and write for the monetary return.  Investing wisely and reaping the rewards of our hard work is the name of the game. They desire more than anything else to create a life of financial stability and abundance, so they focus on what truly matters to them: making money. 💵💼

Of the three Fs, I choose FREEDOM.

99 F degrees = 37.2 C degrees

Speaking of stories, today’s been a hot one! ☀️🔥 In Dallas, we hit a scorching 99 degrees Fahrenheit (that’s a toasty 37.2 degrees Celsius). But fear not! Milestone Electric is coming to my place later today for a preventive maintenance visit, ensuring everything’s running smoothly before the temperature climbs even higher! 🏠⚡

A Tale of Two Tall Blondes

My day started bright and early with the alarm blaring at 7 AM. After taking care of the trash and recycling (gotta stay punctual with the trashcan schedule), I kicked off the morning routine. Meds? Check! Getting dressed? Check! Devotional time? Check! And then, off to my favorite local coffee house where two tall blondes were waiting for me. 😉☕

The first blonde was none other than my beloved blonde roast coffee, my faithful companion in creative endeavors. ☕ The second blonde turned out to be a fascinating woman in her late 40s named Melissa. We struck up a conversation after I helped her retrieve some cash she dropped on the floor. She had a tote bag and on its side was the logo of a software I used to support. Turns out, we both worked on the same software before! She asked two software / development questions to make sure I was being truthful about my background with said software. Good for her for not taking what a guy says as gospel. It’s a small world, right? 🌍

Melissa shared that she’s here at the coffee shop working while her son works out with his friends, preparing for the upcoming football season. We talked about her worries of him getting injured, and I shared my own experience with my son’s knee surgery due to sports. Life’s unpredictable and playing sports is risky.

Curiosity sparked, Melissa said she noticed I wasn’t wearing a wedding ring and asked if I was married. I revealed I was 69 years-old, a widower, and in a committed relationship. She said someone was lucky since I admitted I was in a relationship. She said too many guys would omit that comment. She also said she couldn’t believe my age as I was the same age as her dad! She jokingly mentioned that she thought I was in my early 50s.

Well, thank you for the compliment, Melissa! 😄 I then encouraged her to prioritize self-checks, sharing Miss Benita’s melanoma cancer story. I shared how Benita and my faith in God and our Christian beliefs were a source of strength for both of us during the cancer journey. 🙏

As I headed to my writing spot, Melissa bid me farewell, she said she’ll see me again tomorrow and to please say hello. She settled at a table halfway across the room, and I couldn’t help but appreciate the connection made with a stranger. It’s true what they say: I rarely meet someone I can’t have a meaningful conversation with! 🗣️

All right, time to get down to business! It’s writing / rewriting time, my friends! 📝✨ I’m back to my recommended rewrites.

I hope you all have an incredible day filled with opportunities to explore and create. Keep chasing those dreams and making magic with your words! You’ve got this! 💫🔥

Writing Life – June 9, 2023

Posted in @jimmiekepler, Blog, Christian Living, Christian Writers, Jim Kepler, Jimmie A. Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Jimmie Kepler, jimmiekepler.com, Poet, Poet's Life, Writing1 Comment
Jimmie Kepler wearing a Stetson straw fedora while sitting in Starbucks.

Overcoming Writing Challenges

Introduction:

It was 7:40 AM this morning, when I found myself standing in front of the bathroom scales, staring at the digital printout. It revealed an unwelcome truth: I had gained 1.1 pounds since yesterday’s weigh-in. Frustration welled up inside me as I muttered under my breath, recounting the 4.1 miles and 11,369 steps I had taken the day before. Despite my efforts, the weight refused to budge, leaving me questioning my abilities and wondering what was wrong with me.

This momentary setback reminded me of the work in progress book awaiting my attention, with edits and rewrites that had been looming for almost forty-five days. In the face of this writing challenge, I found myself constantly distracted by other tasks, evading the completion of my book.

However, I knew deep down that it was time to confront my fears and regain my focus.

1. The Struggle of Writing:

Writing, as an art form, is no stranger to struggle. Even for seasoned writers, taking the next step can be arduous, despite knowing exactly what that step entails.

The process is often marked by self-doubt, uncertainty, and a fear of failure. In my case, the current challenge was completing the rewrites for my book, a task that should only require six hours of dedicated work.

However, there was an inexplicable fear that held me back, preventing me from taking the leap and finishing what I had started.

2. The Temptation of Distractions:

To compound matters, I discovered that distractions easily found their way into my writing routine. Each morning, as I sat down at my computer here at my local coffee shop, I found myself drawn to writing my daily writer’s log or checking the stock market and my financials.

While these tasks had their own importance, they took precedence over the crucial edits and rewrites that my book demanded. Reflecting on this, I realized that my fear of completing the book and putting it out into the world may have contributed to my subconscious preference for these distractions.

The allure of familiarity and comfort prevented me from facing the unknown terrain of completing my manuscript.

3. The Culprit: Life’s Demands:

Blaming life became my go-to excuse for my writing struggles. Amidst the daily responsibilities, obligations, and unexpected challenges that life throws our way, it is easy to lose sight of our goals.

Writing, an intensely personal and creative endeavor, often takes a backseat as we prioritize the demands of our professional and personal lives. While it is essential to strike a balance, it is equally crucial to acknowledge that life’s challenges should not hinder our progress. Instead, they should serve as catalysts for finding renewed determination and motivation.

4. Embracing the Solution:

Confronted with these realizations, I knew it was time for a change. I made a conscious decision to cease typing my thoughts and go straight to the rewrites that awaited me. The thought of completing even a single chapter today filled me with a newfound sense of determination.

I reminded myself that progress is often achieved one step at a time, one chapter at a time. The task of completing twenty chapters seemed less daunting when broken down into manageable increments of fifteen minutes per chapter.

With the end of the month as my deadline, I took a deep breath and reaffirmed my belief in my ability to overcome this challenge.

Conclusion:

Writing, like any creative pursuit, is fraught with challenges. It demands perseverance, focus, and an unwavering belief in oneself. By acknowledging and addressing the obstacles that impede our progress, we can navigate the treacherous path of creation more effectively.

Although fear and distractions may threaten to derail our endeavors, it is through embracing these challenges head-on that we find the strength to persevere. As I embarked on my rewrites, I realized that completing a book requires discipline, dedication, and a willingness to confront our inner doubts. With each chapter I completed, I inched closer to my goal.

The journey may be difficult, but armed with determination and a commitment to take it one step at a time, success is within reach.

My guess is you face similar challenges. 

Summer in Texas

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How’s Your Monday?

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Dr. Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Monday, August 1, 2022

Take Out the Recyclables & the Trash

Yes, the writing life is glamorous – ha! I awoke at 6 AM and got out of bed. I put on my house slippers, made a pit-stop at the “necessary room,” put my iPhone on the charger, and headed downstairs.

Once downstairs, I first placed my iWatch on the charger. Next, I collected a bag of trash from the kitchen along with a bag of recyclables. I exit the house via the kitchen door, I walked passed the swimming pool, opened the back gate and places the bags in the alley. 

I returned to the back side of the house. Five more bags of recyclables and two more bags of trash awaited me. Carrying two bags at a time, I made four trips to deposit them in the alley. The trash collectors come about 8 AM and the recycle people between 10 and 2 PM. Mission accomplished. I come back into the house and lock the kitchen door.

Next, I put a new trash bag in the trash can and a new recycle bag in the recycle bin. 

Then I headed back upstairs, got dressed, pick up my now fully charged iPhone, and made my way back downstairs.

Take My Morning Medications

I refilled the water bottle before going to the restroom to get my seventeen morning pills to take. Once retrieved, I spent the ten minutes taking the pills and glancing at the online version of the Dallas Morning News. My iWatch is now fully charged so I retrieve and put it on. 

I tossed my MacBook in its black leather Coach bag along with the charger, noise suppressing headphones, and wireless mouse. I have an extra USB mouse in my computer bag in case I forget the wireless one.

A note I left on the table tells where I am going and what I’m doing. A stop at the mini-refrigerator gets me a Diet-Coke. I grab a new KN-95 face mask, exit via the front door, lock the front door, and put my computer bag in the back seat, get into my Mercedes, open my Diet Coke, turn on SiriusXM to channel 90 – NASCAR. 

Drive to Starbucks

I drink half the Diet-Coke during the ten-minute drive to Starbucks. The NASCAR news of the morning updates me on the latest happening. I’m a NASCAR fan following the Joe Gibbs Racing team’s four drivers.

When arriving at Starbucks, the handicap parking space was full so I have to park where I have to cross traffic to get into the building. I get my computer bag, my navy-blue Cardigan, and cane from the back seat and wait until there’s a break in the stream of traffic to cross the parking lot.

Once inside, I claim my table. All twelve tables are empty. I go to the counter where several baristas greet me by name. The manager says, Good morning, Jimmie. After returning their greeting, I pull out my iPhone and open the Starbucks app. 

The addion of funds to the app is my first order of business. I push a button and another $25 is on my Starbucks account. I order the Starbucks Eggs & Cheddar Protein Box and a large cup of blonde roast coffee. 

Daily Writing

While eating breakfast, I’m writing this post. When I finish, it’ll be time to get back to the daily writing as I head for achieving today’s word count on my pen name novel. 

So goes the exciting life of the writer. 

Air Conditioners, Sweaters, & Hot Weather

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Today in North Texas

It’s Tuesday, July 26, 2022. Today is day 31 with temperarues100 degrees or warmer in 2022. We have not measured rain at DFW Airport for 51 days. We need rain and cooler weather in North Texas.

Hot Weather

Outside, it was over 90 degrees F when I left the house before 9 AM.

Hot weather is blanketing North America. The high today in Vancouver, British Columbia, is 91 degrees F. I’ll arrive there in 22 days.

I’ll be in Vancouver for three days before going on an Alaska Cruise-tour where I’ll end up at Mt Denali and the Denali National Park. It’s 38 degrees F with light rain at Denali.

Starbucks

I’m sitting in Starbucks this morning wearing my cardigan sweater (see today’s selfie) as the AC is frigid.

It’s morning writing, a walk in AC comfort, a visit to the allergy doctor, Bible reading, more reading for pleasure, and an evening swim are part of the day’s agenda.

Friends

I have a dear friend whose mother passed away peacefully in the in-patient hospice care unit this morning. I’ve known this friend since 1970. Losing your mother at any age is tough.

Today’s Selfie

The selfie is from today. FYI – My trifocals are for reading and computer. The regular or distance lease has no correction as my distance vision after cataract surgery is 20/20. I have to wear glasses for driving to read the dashboard.

My Mustache and Hair Are Turning Grey

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Dr. Jimmie Aaron Kepler, July 2022

I’m a Believer

My day begins with daily Bible reading. This morning I read read chapter four, five, and six the Book of Exodus from the English Standard version the Holy Bible.

Yes, I’m a regular Bible reader. Yes, I confess Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. I’m a Believer, a Christian.

Starbucks Regular

I’m at Starbucks at Coit and Campbell in Richardson, Texas. My classic oatmeal with brown sugar is yummy. The cup of Blonde Roast coffee amazing.

Most mornings I write at a Starbucks in the north Dallas Texas suburban area. I’ve written at dozens of locations over the years.

Today’s Writing

Morning writing is on my agenda for the next few hours. I’m working on the first draft on book two in my pen name historical fiction series. I’m about 22,000 words into a 80,000 word book.

Grey Hair

I’ve been reading about grey hair recently. 

Why? 

Well, my whiskers have started looking like they have frosting on them. They facial hair is now about 60% grey and white and 40% brown. The hair on my head is changing as well. 

The root (newest part of my hair) has areas that are turning grey. My research shows (besides me turning 69 in November) that typically the hair’s root turns grey when they have mostly died off having no more or very little melanin (the brown or black pigment in hair).

The middle of the hair will have a bit of melanin because it was produced when there were still some functional melanocytes, and the tip (the oldest part of the hair) will still be full of melanin from when it was produced. 

From what I read stress and health – as well as aging – can cause the hair to turn grey. My guess is it’s my time unless the Covid and related stress has caused it. 

From my research, if I cut my hair short, it would be very grey because of the newer grey roots. With it the length I have (about 18 to 20 inches) it could take as long as two to three years to all go grey. 

On the other hand, I read that if turning grey is stress or illness related, remove the stress and recover from the illness and a majority of the hair will again start producing melanin and regain its pigment. Interesting. 

Google grey hair and join me in information overload.

If you’re grey, how old were you when your hair started going grey? The average age for white men and women is mid 30s.

I’ll take what God gives me. The photo shows the greying/silvering of my mustache.

Defeating Giants In Your Christian Writing Life

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1 Samuel 17:40 English Standard Version (ESV), “Then he took his staff in his hand and chose five smooth stones from the brook and put them in his shepherd’s pouch. His sling was in his hand, and he approached the Philistine.”

If You Are Going to Defeat The Giants In Your Christian Writing Life You Need To Use The Five Stones:

Stone One: Check You Purpose

Is it worthy enough to consume your time, energy, etc.? 

Why are you writing what you’re writing? We all know it is better to write a book or article that touches one life for Christ than to write smut that sells hundreds of thousands of copies. Is there an audience for your work?

Jeremiah 33:3 (ESV), “Call to me, and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.”

As Believers, we pray more when challenged with a cause.

John 14:13-14 (ESV), “Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.”

Being used by God and working in the Holy Spirit’s power is a privilege. 

Mark 11:24 (ESV), “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”

Stone Two: Count the Cost

To defeat Goliath, David had to:

1. Pay the price of criticism. 

We get that as writers from family members who say we need a real job or writing is a hobby and from reviewers and our writing group who don’t like or get our work.

2. Pay the price in loneliness. 

Admit it; there is a lot of loneliness and solitude in writing. Are you willing to spend the time with your behind in the chair?

Stone Three: Chart Your Course

Know your target audience. Who are you writing for and why?

1 Samuel 17:34-36 (ESV), “But David said to Saul, “Your servant used to keep sheep for his father. And when there came a lion, or a bear, and took a lamb from the flock, I went after him and struck him and delivered it out of his mouth. And if he arose against me, I caught him by his beard and struck him and killed him. Your servant has struck down both lions and bears, and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be like one of them, for he has defied the armies of the living God.”

Stone Four: Consider Your Christ

Remember, David didn’t confront and kill Goliath alone. He gives us an example of positive faith that we can apply to our writing.

1 Samuel 17:45 (ESV), “Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.”

Do you include prayer in your writing preparation? Do you ask God to show you what you should be writing and to let His thoughts be your thoughts as you put words on paper?

Philippians 4:13 (ESV), “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

This verse includes four positives things:
  1. I can – is positive thinking.
  2. I can do – is a positive action.
  3. I can do all things – is positive faith.
  4. I can do all things through Christ – is a positive power.

Stone Five: Charge Your Challenge

Now get after it! Get your behind in the chair and write!

1 Samuel 17:51-52 (ESV), “Then David ran and stood over the Philistine and took his sword and drew it out of its sheath and killed him and cut off his head with it. When the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they fled. And the men of Israel and Judah rose with a shout and pursued the Philistines as far as Gath and the gates of Ekron, so that the wounded Philistines fell on the way from Shaaraim as far as Gath and Ekron.”

Conclusion:

We kill the giants in our own writing lives because those needing to read what God has placed on our hearts will never see the words in print or kill the giants in their lives until we do it in our lives.

Photo Credit: Image by Ralf Kunze from Pixabay