What is so important about writing?
When broken down to its simplest form, we’re talking about words and language. But, writing is more than just written words and language; writing captures and immortalizes time otherwise upheld by recycled memories. The written word has brought humanity business, education, religion, government, and more!
How do we know we are free Americans? The Bill of Rights was written by James Madison and solidified by the signatures of 40 men. How are we able to study the teachings of Jesus? Records kept by disciples detailing the events of Christ’s life, leading to and following his resurrection, have been translated into the New Testament.
Artistically, the written word can illustrate in a way imagery cannot. While film and photography capture time eloquently, authors and journalists intrigue the imaginations of readers through sensory description. In addition to maintaining vocabulary and mental resilience, imagination is the product of effective writing. The written word is literally brain food, and the knowledge available is a bottomless buffet!
When was the last time you wrote a letter?
Not an email or text. Emotionally, we confess love, happiness, sadness, anger, and pain in letters, notes, poems, and devotionals. There is power in personalized, hand-written notes, it evokes a deepened sense of realism within the recipient. A bit old-fashioned to today’s digital junkies, but there is something to be said about honoring timeless tradition. Despite some shaky hands and withering memories, my grandparents still exchange letters with old friends. And like a testimony of consideration and fellowship, my family cherishes their display of Hallmark cards around each birthday, anniversary, and holiday. You see, writing is sentimental and heartfelt. We have the power to choose our words wisely by conceptualizing a message before composing and building upon each draft; much like a blog. This careful process is both vulnerable and irrevocable, thus, treasured with the fullness of our hearts.
How powerful can our words really be?
For the social butterfly, how many of your posts revolve around anonymous quotes or alleged sayings? Do you keep up with the latest news or find inspiration and humor in your news feed? Are you a recovering addict? The 4th step in AA’s 12-step program is, “Make a searching and fearless moral inventory.” For the believer, “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” Undoubtedly, WORDS ARE POWERFUL!
I have always preferred writing notes. Maybe a symptom of my artsy-fartsy nature, I love how college-ruled pages look when covered with fresh ink and unique handwriting! As a communications student studying fine arts and media, I found simple enjoyment in creative writing, until a special assignment hit close to home. I have since felt charged to continue developing my writing skills. Now, I write for my job, spiritual edification, to love on my husband, and appreciate my family. The pretty bow topping this journalistic package is a set of goals initiated by this blog – a collection of adventures, travels, art, deep thoughts, and spiritual lessons.
Why write?
Well, write for therapy. Write for self-expression. Write for contribution. Write for fun. Write to preserve. Write for readers. Write to challenge yourself.
Great post
Arran