I've always envied those who were able to call themselves a writer. "What do you do?" ..."Oh me?...Why, I'm a writer, dear sir. I formulate and acquaint the English language, manipulating it into honey for those who wish to taste the sweet flavor of mine pen's ink! I am a storyteller!"
Well, perhaps that's a bit over the top, but nonetheless, writing for me shows someone has a passion they are chasing; something they are disciplining themselves to attain: That finished piece to share with others. The ideas transformed onto paper. The same could be said of an artist, except when I paint it's different for me. There's nothing therapeutic about it for me; only stress. I'm a perfectionist and take too much time on things I shouldn't. Though I love the end result, the ride getting there is not what it is for some; yes, I digress.
A friend of mine is just a few years out of high school and he is published. I've been blessed to watch the progress of it all. From being a teenager giving me his first short story printed out on paper with a staple keeping everything intact in hopes of getting some feedback, to him autographing a copy of his published book and hand delivering it. He continues to write, to have that passion, that discipline. I get to watch someone live a small dream of mine as I continue to tell myself that one day, even if it's self publishing, I will leave behind something for friends and family to keep forever. Well, I'm thinking being 40-something that now's as good a time as any.
Nearly 20 years ago I wrote four short stories that I'm very proud of to this day. They still hold up and they are unpublished. I also started a novel and within the past decade I have begun both a nonfiction book as well as a children's book. The four stories are the only thing finished, and this weekend I made the decision to pursue publication as well as dive back into writing.
I love recording events (my family can attest to this based on the many birthdays, Christmases, school events, and other special moments videotaped) and so I've decided to record this progress; the adventure of pursuing writing and publication. You are reading that recording. Hopefully you'll enjoy it as much as I've enjoyed someone else taking the steps to live their dream while I sat back and watched it unfold.