We Can Receive Support from the COMMUNITY WE BELONG TO – AND offer OUR LIGHT IN RETURN.
Writing can feel lonely and competitive… but it doesn’t have to. With a shift in perspective, we can align ourselves with the deep sense of connection that being a writer offers us.
As writers, we are naturally and automatically part of a community – an invisible bond that connects writers to one another. It transcends differences, spans generations, and crosses oceans. It brings together and connects people from all over the world and throughout time who have held the gift of writing within them.
What you go through as a writer – whatever challenge you face or hurdle you have to climb – has been faced by other writers. Likewise, the joy, inspiration, and fulfillment you feel from writing has also been shared by others. As writers, we are not alone!
CONNECTED AND INSPIRED
When we open ourselves to the idea that we belong to a community of writers, we give ourselves the opportunity to tap into the benefits it offers, from a sense of belonging to a source of inspiration.
This perspective is captured wonderfully by Jacob Ward, a writer who took part in a recent Retreat for the Writer’s Soul and shared with the group:
“When I think about what inspires me, the first thought that comes to mind is people. I realize I have so many friends I don't even know! Writers are an example for me and lift me up through their energy.”
The sense of connection and inspiration that Jacob captures here shows us that we can benefit from our connection to other writers. Even though we may not know them, we can learn from their wisdom, be inspired by their experiences, and trust that we are not on this journey alone. The community we belong to can comfort us, support us, and lift us up.
oFFERING FRIENDSHIP
How we respond to the community we belong to as writers is equally important as what we take from it. Just as we can gain from the community, so too can we give back. We can offer support as well as receive it. We can share our words, our experiences, and our wisdom to help inspire others. And we can shine our light to lift other writers up. In doing so, we can strengthen the bond and add to the community that connects us all.
In a beautiful act of generosity toward his fellow writers, Jacob offers the following words of encouragement and support. May they lift you up!
YOUR TURN
Don't ever tell yourself that you can't.
You are more incredible than you could imagine.
When you have doubts, I will be your reassurance.
When you feel weak, I will be your strength
When you feel lost, just know you will find your way
When I look at you, I see the most beautiful thing.
Behind those eyes, there is a universe at work.
Learn to be kind, know your worth.
Embrace who you are, there is power in your words.
This story is yours, let it be heard.
Just know you are here now. This isn't by chance,
this is your turn.
~ Jacob Ward is a writer from Ontario, Canada who first fell in love with writing when he was 16 and loves using it to express himself freely.