by Pat Sabiston
When I started my writing career, I was holed up in the basement of my house while my young children napped upstairs. I had no idea where to begin; I had a deep desire to write. (I’d never heard of having a “calling” at that point in my faith walk.) So, I did the only thing I knew to do – start at the beginning. I ordered Writer’s Digest magazine, a Writer’s Market, Freelance Writing: Advice from the Pros (by Curtis Casewit), and How to be a Successful Housewife/Writer: Bylines and Babies Do Mix (by Elaine Fantle Shimberg) and began to study. I’d wanted to attend journalism school, but my parents told me my brother would attend the university. In contrast, I would go to business school and then “marry well,” which was what we Southern ladies did in the 60s. Because of that path, I can type really fast, which is helpful for a writer.
Once I’d educated myself about the industry—and remember, just like most things, writing is a creative tradecraft and does follow a process—I began to consider what I needed to write about but was clueless. Then, I read an article that suggested writers should solve a problem of their own.
Having been raised in an abusive family, one thing I hated about myself was my lack of good parenting skills. Instead of carefully instructing my two children, I tended to yell at them in frustration … a lot. It bothered me, and I was sure it was scarring them. So, I set out to try and find out what to do to solve the problem. Fortunately, I had a cousin who was a psychoanalyst in D.C., and he was a great help with my research. Then, I wrote, authentically and painfully, about my transformation and results. That process led to “The Screaming Syndrome,” published nationwide in Ladies Circle Magazine (1980). I was hooked.
However, when I told my then-husband of my dream, he responded, “Yeah, you’ll become a writer when I become a jet pilot.” Now, I refer to that as “negative motivation,” and gleefully respond, “Gentlemen, start your engines!”
Now, more than 45 years later, my portfolio continues to grow. (Thankfully, writing has no age restraints, and you can do it virtually anywhere.) I’ve continued in my career, as God has impressed me to share His messages through the testimonies of others. By doing so, I’ve become a regular contributor to GO! Christian Magazine. I can answer my faith questions through that venue, like: “Why Should We Honor the Sabbath?” Also, I’ve been fortunate to do personal interviews with Will Graham (Billy’s grandson), James Faulkner: Paul: Apostle of Christ (star), and Stephen Curtis Chapman (musician).
During the Covid shutdown, the Christian publisher WestBow Press produced my first children’s book, Can’t Never Could! Since little girls lose their self-esteem by age nine, this title (based on a true story) catches them early (Pre-K/Early Readers through the 2nd Grade), teaching a never-to-be-forgotten lesson. Pertinent scriptures and lesson plans are in the back pages.
So please don’t be discouraged if you are not a “trained” writer. Writing is a CRAFT anyone can learn! The Write Conversation newsletter will be a big help! And, although most of my early resources are out of print (Casewit’s is available at ThriftBooks), Writer’s Digest magazine continues to be published. It has terrific adjunct publications to add to your learning library. Oh, and don’t forget writer’s symposiums like the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer’s Conference, but that’s something Edie will be glad to help you explore. So, don’t waste any more time and life. Go forth and write your first article!
TWEETABLE
Sabiston is a much sought-after trainer, motivator, and writing instructor. She has published books, essays, short stories, articles, fillers, and interviews. He work has appeared in the Atlanta Journal/Constitution, New York Times/Asbury Park Press edition, NPR Online, and The Southern Poetry Review among other outlets. She is a columnist for Bay Coastal Newspaper and is a journalist for GO! Christian Magazine. She is completing her first novel and published her first children’s book, CAN’T NEVER COULD, through WestBow Press, a division of Thomas Nelson/Zondervan.
As owner of The Write Place, a communications consulting firm, Pat’s daily routine is writing—advertising copy, newsletters, brochures, news releases, and grants. She also writes speeches and training curriculum.
Pat loves her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ; her best friend, Tom; their children, grandchildren, and two GREAT grands; their Miniature Schnauzer, Dooley; and Crème Brulee.
Thank you for these encouraging words, Pat :)
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