~ January 28, 2019 ~
“It’s been 10 years since I wrote that book, when God showed me how hardship can be made into a work of art. I haven’t written anything since 2010 though, and I’ve often wondered how long it will be on the shelf. I didn’t want to force it, but could never seem to find time to give it its due.
Then out of nowhere, 2019 arrives and the fire is lit. I’ve never been one for New Year’s resolutions, but for some reason over Thanksgiving it struck me maybe I should try one–commit to redrafting a book. I had four WIPs (works in progress, to the layman) in various form. I could have picked up any of them. It was clear I was supposed to rewrite the last one. I had an old netbook that I loved, with Microsoft Works on it. But it was defunct–lights came on, but no one was home. So I fired up another old writing PC, a swanky one with Word 2007.
I followed through in January, and God gave a sign that it was the right book and the right time.”
Any dusty old tools laying around in your shed?
A close friend told me how he’d received a guitar as a gift some twenty years ago, and rarely used it. Music was once a big part of his life, long ago. This year he returned to it, playing almost every day, leading songs with family and church friends.
Another friend spoke of rethinking the way he’s always done things, taking it all in, considering changes in tactics. It wasn’t about regrets or anything being wrong. Sometimes the path bends, the terrain changes, and it’s just time to start a new season. He’s more focused on direction, instead of just continuing to work hard on the same endeavors he always has. Different work may be in store for the years ahead.
Has it ever crossed your mind to return to an old hobby? If the time is right, you should. You’ll know. Instead of a midlife crisis, take up an old talent you once had time for. If life feels too fast, missing true meaning, slow down and reach back to your roots (I’ll never get through a blog post without using the phrase “slow down”–I’ve accepted it).
If you’re there, a hinge point where it’s time to regroup… seek a quiet place. Seek what your future may hold; contemplate the past. You will find direction there.
Write On,
Fellow Traveler