Long ago, I used to think I was a good writer. Meaning, I wrote well and didn't have to craft it, work at it. I used to think that this was a part of who I was. I identify as a writer. But no. I'm no writer when compared to those who proliferate words, string together sentences, and build blocks of paragraphs. Those who truly have the inclination, a talent, and work at it...
Yet, there is an urge within me to return to the exploration of this work and even to explore it as a slice of my identity pie. The longer I'm away from writing, the more I think about it. I stopped for myriad reasons stemming from busyness in work, marriage, and parenting. Additionally, I don't currently have a particular story at the tip of my tongue nor do I have inspiring phrases that stop me on my walks and cause me to find a piece of paper quick! Or to open up my Notes app on my iPhone to dictate something unique and delicious. Not right now anyway. I used to and perhaps I will again.
What this urge seems to be, I've discovered after thinking and thinking, is rather a need to express. Expression. That's a word that resonated with my spirit when it dawned on me. Expression is the vehicle and maybe the writing medium is one that I can rediscover and hone once again. Or perhaps another medium will allow me to express the shouts, cries, understood silence, and other thoughts, emotions, truths, stories, beauty...
Scripture of course has helped me find this vocal expression and lead it rightly. The Psalmist, as well as others, describes in poetic imagery the new song of the redeemed. We are commanded to sing a new song. As a ransomed child of God, I am to sing a new song to Him, in praise, worship, thanksgiving. I am to add my voice to the multitude. I am to testify to the blood of the Lamb by the way he has shed His blood for me. Only I can add my voice to this. Only my experience can add the right timbre to the chord. Here I am! then, writing in an effort to explore expression again for the sake of obedience to this commandment of song. Journaling, corresponding, blogging...walking walking walking
