Just write garbage

Captain’s Log, Stardate 04.08.2005

Writing: I’ve been realizing that my writing discipline needs work. I don’t get it. I was so disciplined in February and the early part of March. And now I’m slacking.

I always thought writing was all creativity. Through my online groups I discovered it’s 50% marketing, too, once you get published, and often even before the book hits the shelves. Now I’m learning that it’s also plain old-fashioned DISCIPLINE. The same discipline I needed to do my chores, finish my homework, practice piano. I remember those days. Writing is much more interesting than washing dishes, so why can’t I forego temptations like “Alias” and “Lost” and work on my manuscript?

I’ve realized that once I force myself to start, to sit and write even though it’s only garbage appearing on the computer screen, then after a while the writing gets easier and better. It’s forcing myself to stare at my manuscript Word document that’s hard, especially when there’s all these interesting conversations on my writers discussion loops.

I think I will print out a sign to put on my computer to remind me: JUST WRITE GARBAGE.

I did some writing today at work while I waited for the FACS machine to count my cells. It was really cool. When I’m doing mindless things, I go into some kind of zen mode and the words just flow. I wished I had a laptop to record it on instead of writing it out by hand.

In talking tonight with one of my husband’s friends, she mentioned that writing is actually a nurturing activity. I had said that I am hoping my writing will help others seek Christ--not necessarily conversions or anything like that, but if I lift Christ up, He will draw people to Himself, whether it’s deepening their walk or meeting Him for the first time.

She said, “Well, that’s nurturing.” A mother helps a child to grow, I want to help others to grow in Christ.

This is significant for me, who thought I didn’t have a nurturing bone in my body. After all, young children make me run away screaming. There might be hope for me yet.

Diet: Can you say, Thai food? But I did stop when my stomach sent up a protest. Also, I ran a little with the dog today. Another two areas I need discipline: eating and exercising.