From Least to Favorite 

My new favorite thing about writing is the thing I used to hate the most: the community aspect. 

Some people become friends because they’re interested in the same sports teams, games, or the same shows. Similarly, I’ve made a lot of friends from being a part of the writing community. 

I’ve really enjoyed reading my friends’ writing, becoming attached to their characters, and supporting them when they reach milestones in their writing journeys. 

But making friends isn’t the only community aspect that I’ve experienced when it comes to writing. 

Getting Help

Being a writer means that I’ve spent many hours alone, clicking away at my keyboard while working on a new story. But every time I emerge back into the real world with a finished short story or draft, I need help—and a lot of it.

Like I said in last week’s blog, I have a hard time looking at my stories objectively—whether it’s good or bad. That’s why it’s helpful to have people who can look at my story and tell me if there are things that aren’t clear, could be better, or that they really liked!

When I was working on my novella, I gave it to Michaylah Malone and Brad Pauquette, who developmentally edited the story. They pointed out a lot of stuff that I could improve, and by the time I finished editing, it was a lot better than my original draft. Thanks to the help of my developmental editors, my novella became the story that I had wanted to tell when I first started writing it.

I’d also like to give a special shout out to Lindsey Backen and Alli Prince who are currently copy editing my novella (Be sure to check them out if you’re looking for some more joy or interesting historical tools and remedies)!

The Readers

And then there are people in the writing community who I may not work with or know very well, but who want to read what I write. Not only that, but they’re excited to read it! 

Maybe you fall into that category, and if that’s the case then I’d like to thank you for your support and encouragement. It’s such an honor!

The Broken Heart Of The Matter

Over the last few years, I’ve learned that community is really important when it comes to being a writer—or anything else.

But in the beginning, I ran from community. 

Writing is something that I originally picked up so I could escape boredom, and later, reality. Due to various circumstances, I had grown apart from the friends I had when I was younger. Instead of opening up to anyone new, I escaped into fantasy worlds.

I started writing in order to avoid people, but in the end, I found myself surrounded.

I wouldn’t be where I am today mentally, physically, and professionally if it weren’t for the people God placed in my life.

So many people have encouraged and inspired me. They taught me that being a writer doesn’t mean living a life of solitude.

Now, I want to support the community that has supported me. To encourage and inspire other writers who are dealing with the same things I’ve been dealing with.

Before You Go…

What about you? Do you have a community? Who supports you?

Let me know in the comments, or email me at thirzah@thirzahwrites.com