Some writers yearn to play with words, some trip all over themselves to blurt out a stream of consciousness, and some writers agonize over every word as if it's a tooth to give up.
But if we've come to some maturity; we'll mostly wield words like a surgeon a scalpel, fluid because of training, and focused not on the shine and glint of the scalpel, but on the deliberate work it is meant to do. cutting just so far and no more, to accomplish a greater goal.
What then, is a writer's responsibility in such a huge time of upheaval as we have now?
Do not stir up passion and fury, just to see people foam. Don't embellish truth to make it titillating. Do not debate every little issue and bit of lint. You'll only add to the problem. And - don't insist on getting paid for every word you write.
There. Now may I dwell the positives?
God's ultimate goal whether with words or done with hands and feet, is to recognize His authority and glory. According to individual gifts distributed to His own, we may get more precise instructions and subjective assignments.
Years ago, while trying to teach our girls club hostessing manners, my helping guide, who had been to finishing school gave us a simple little rule to follow whenever we didn't know what to do next in an unfamiliar situation. I've used Helen's rule many times since.
"Always do and always say the kindest thing in the kindest way."
Practice writing and saying kind things, as kindly as possible. Remember that in the written form people can't hear your tone of voice, so you have to craft that into the idiom and choices of words. Maybe add extras to prove it.
What would be kind responsible words to write these days?
It might be hard to come by profound comforting words for the bereaved and distraught, but just saying the obviously kind words on paper, gives them something tangible to hold in their hands. Something they can re-read until it registers. So write sympathy notes.
Lots of people are disheartened and fearful. As Dr. Dobson has pointed out, children get very frightened and freeze inside when they see and hear adults frightened or angry - even though they don't understand the words. So write simple and encouraging things for both adults and children, as you have gifts and opportunities. Write in cards, or articles and stories. Share the things that give you hope.
The internet offers boundless opportunities to get words out to people! Many websites are begging for inspirational stories of heroes and hope.
Some have big decisions to make that could cost lives or have huge consequences for good, or for evil. Pray for them, and then write them of your prayers, or write one out for them. Point them to the wise God who knows all and has promised not to scold those who ask for wisdom. (James 1:5) If you have some considered and well-thought out points or suggestions, these might be appreciated, and if written in a kind tone, probably used.
Already people are writing poems, songs, articles and editorials - the creative juices are rippling down, carrying words like a steam mountain stream in spring brings down new rocks and pebbles.
It would be good, before we make that stream too muddy, if we'd all withdraw to a quiet place, at least for a while each day to commune with God and see what words He wants to give us. They will be better ones than the first bubbles from us.
All writers, but especially you and me, who are editors, let's pause to check our connection with the fountain of truth before we let our positions give us swelled heads. If we don't write in love we'll be like clanging gongs and tinny cowbells, failing our responsibilities, signifying nothing.
Back to Writing/Publishing (index).
Ruth Marlene Friesen
The Responsible One
Privacy Promises ~~
Sitemap
Ruthe's Secret Roses (official site)
©2001-2022 Ruth Marlene Friesen
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada