I am staring at a blank page. The cursor blinking steadily, mocking my inability to develop a topic for my next column. Of course, my dilemma is now resolved since the page is no longer blank. What a relief! But my task has now been transformed, its objective changed. I must no longer write a column, I must now write an article that is long enough for publication. I have conquered the most difficult stage of writing: starting to write.
Having successfully achieved the completion of my first paragraph, I have proudly pressed “enter” and begun the second paragraph. I am further relieved now that progress is evident. Reaching the second paragraph of a column suggests that I will very likely succeed in completing the column. The topic has been sufficiently developed and my mind is engaged enough to carry my thoughts to a logical conclusion.
As this third paragraph begins, relief morphs into excitement. My fingers easily transcribe my thoughts with expert ease. Typing skills learned long ago are a tremendous benefit since they allow my fingers to keep up with my racing mind. I hope my readers will not only enjoy the column that is unraveling before me, but find it clear and engaging. I try to make the column just long enough to develop one point well, but short enough so that readers will actually read it. With attention spans shortening by the minute, I recognize that my column must not be much more than 400 words (I am past half way there).
Now that I have expressed the main idea of my topic, I begin to doubt if my message will be well taken. Perhaps some will oppose me? Just maybe someone will write a letter to the editor? I love receiving specific feedback that responds to the ideas I develop rather than obnoxious comments that become personal or irrational. I secretly hope that the topic of the column strikes a nerve in someone eliciting a strong response, whether positive or negative. I hope that my column will move readers out of complacency, ideally move them out from spiritual complacency. Just maybe my words will help a reader grow closer to God. Inspire him. Inspire her. Move them past the words they read by lifting up their thoughts to higher things, to God above.
As the conclusion draws near and I realize it is time to cut the thread, I feel satisfied knowing that I have accomplished the task set before me. I have not just written another column, but have organized my thoughts and reflections in a way that they have become sharable. As I type the final words, I pray that others will find my thoughts helpful in their daily lives.
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