Resist sitting on your haunches . . . anyone can do that.
After a recent support group for writers, I made an observation about members of this long-standing group that began five yeas ago following a week-long memoir writers' retreat. We meet monthly and our deepening friendships have become a rich part of our lives - as well as the composite value of input in honing our writing skills.
My observation was that all members of the group are very involved in various ways that go beyond the enjoyment of writing for writing's sake. Each person has been using her or his writing skills to speak out and stand up for issues.
It is amazing what life-journeys each of us have been on and the opportunities we have had - and continue to have. Somewhere in each person's evolution as a writer has come the importance of making a difference in the world.
One person writes op ed pieces that are published regularly. Another in the field of education was asked to read and then write a review of a new book on the “state of the educational system in our society.” Still another person has spent her life speaking out on ethical issues of internal church matters. Another continues to function as a “community organizer” around critical environmental and social issues.
One person is in the position to encourage church congregations to think hard and deep on what is really important and then to put one’s faith into action. Another person wrote a well-crafted article about an evironmental issue in his commuity. Another speaks internationally at professional meetings out of his passion for the health care of our beloved family dogs. And yet another person has moved from writing about detailed memories to social issues such as the celebration of scouting for girls.
And I had thought that we were just writers, gathering each month to share what we had written since the last time we had been together. And to offer each other gentle, helpful comments on the craft of writing.
Granted . . . after a potluck meal . . . we do sit on our haunches for a while . . .
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