The Big Cs of Writing

by Bruce Brady @BDBrady007

Tomorrow we, as a nation, celebrate the day our ancestors declared their independence from dictatorial government. The monarchy increasingly pressed for greater control over their lives until they’d had enough.

Political pressures continued until tensions reached a crisis. Colonists knew they were called to establish a new country—one that would allow its citizens to freely worship God and create a new form of government that serves the people. Like David, they faced their giant, committing themselves to sever their bonds with their oppressors. No matter what.

Recently, I found myself facing a crisis. I listened to my doctor say, “You have metastatic prostate cancer that has metastasized to your bones. We can’t cure it. All we can do is manage its growth and your pain.”

The Lord instantly blessed me with an awesome peace. Knowing I was in good hands whether I live or die kept me from plunging into depression. I did, however, begin concocting reasons I can’t finish the novel I’ve been working on for well over a year.

I’d like to be traditionally published but there’s a good chance I won’t live that long. Writing is hard enough for healthy people, now I have the added complication of being unable to sit or stand for more than a few minutes before I’m racked with pain. Many publishers are looking for a long term, multi-book relationship. That’s not looking too good for me.

Hey! These were great arguments. And I had plenty more. God didn’t buy them. He reminded me that I was called to serve Him through the written word. He also reminded me that He controls when I die.

I responded by committing myself to finishing the novel, even if it’s never published. I’ll do it for the readers without regard to financial rewards or professional accolades. I’ll trust Him for the words and the results.

So why am I writing this? Because I know that if you’re reading it, you’re called to write for Him also. Whatever crisis you may or will face, remember your calling. You may not receive instant peace like I did. Don’t give up. Your voice is the only one that will reach some readers. Others may come close, but your words are the exact words they need to read or hear. Never lose sight of that.

Armed with your new resolve, commit yourself to finishing what you started. Instead of looking for reasons not to write, visualize your audience and press on. Do as much as you can whenever you can. Forget about whether you’ll get published or if anyone will like it. If you never make a dime and only reach one person, so what? Stay true to your calling and follow through. It will greatly improve your outlook on life and your situation.

So what crisis are you facing? How are you handling it? Let’s keep this conversation going.

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Bruce Brady is an author, writer and playwright. His work has appeared in Focus on the Family’s Thriving Family, www.ChristianDevotions.us, and on stage. Currently, Bruce is working on a Young Adult Novel about a boy who must deal with the death of his dad, being bullied, and helping his mom through her grief. His first five pages took third place in the ACFW South Carolina Chapter’s “First Five Pages” contest.

When he’s not writing, Bruce spends time learning from and helping other writers. He serves as Mentor of Word Weavers International’s Online Chapter, and as a member of Cross ‘N’ Pens, The Writer’s Plot, ACFW’s National and South Carolina Chapters.

“My dream is to entertain my readers and give them hope as they travel the rocky road of life.”