Day two of the writers conference was a busy one. In between the two classes and running the bookstore, I had to sneak out and give some time to my new job of wedding planner. I made the complete circle from Hyannis to Mashpee to Sandwich and back to Hyannis again in time for my afternoon class, Writing for Children.
Day two of this class was fun. We had the writing exercise I spoke of yesterday. Yesterday I was glad we weren’t going to have to share it. Today, when someone suggested we share and the teacher asked for volunteers, I was among the first to raise my hand. Why do I do that? The best thing about the exercise was not having to share, yet when asked, I’m the first in line. This behavior might help me with today’s homework assignment.
For homework, we have to sit for a few minutes and honestly think about why we want to write for children. At first I thought my reason might be a little egotistical because I usually genuinely like what I write and want to share it, but in thinking about the homework question, now I don’t think so. I think it’s important to like what you write; to like what you create.
For me, a piece of myself is given in the art and writing I create. What fuels my passion for creating in the first place? Why do I write, not only for children, but why do I write this blog everyday? I think it’s for a connection. I connect with you, my blog reader, just as I would connect with a child or a group of children with a picture book I write. For me it’s touching someone and evoking an emotional response or nudging thought into a new direction.
Child or adult, picture book listener or blog reader, it’s the energy that passes between my words and the recipient that fuels the passion for what I create. The human connection formed out of laughter, sadness, provoked thought, questioning, the deeper understanding of life and/or the organization of one’s world is my reason for writing – for both children and adults. Liking my work is vitally important to forging that connection. When I give a gift, I always give the recipient something that I would like. Why would it be any different with my writing?
And so, as another day goes by, my teacher formed a connection with me by leading me to turn inward and provoking my thoughts, it was a good assignment, and …I have written.
Consider your lofty goals accomplished with this grateful reader of yours.