My Personal Blog: September 2009

Sep 29, 2009

So It's Bleeding Red Ink...Now What?

I recently joined an online critique group and am amazed at the different opinions expressed about each chapter that was turned in. While I have a tendency to be a little shy with my comments (mostly because I am still learning), others fill each page with comments and suggestions that range from typos to major rewrites. It's not uncommon to see more red on the page than black. So how does a person deal with such differences of opinion?

First of all, I think you need to approach it with a good attitude. Remember that comments from other writers are subjective and may be a reflection of their style of writing and voice. Be leery to make changes that go against your inner voice and change the way your personality flows on the page.

Second, take each suggestion as it is intended, as something for you to consider, not something that NEEDS to be changed. However, be careful not to dismiss it because of pride. Sometimes we don't see how to make our own work better because we are so close to it. Consider everything carefully. Another writer's experience and education might be just what you need in order to get your work to the top of the slush pile and into the book store.

Third, ask questions. If there is a comment made that you don't understand, make sure you get clarification. If you understand the change that has to be made, maybe it will help you avoid making that mistake again.

And Fourth, be gracious. Even if you choose not to use the suggestions or make the changes, be grateful that someone was willing to lend a hand. Let them know how much you appreciate their honestly and the time it took to read through your work. This is especially the case when someone takes on the time consuming and sometimes daunting task of editing an entire manuscript. Make sure you thank them and be willing to do the same for them if asked.

So, how did I do with my first session? Not to shabby. I didn't have quite as many comments as I thought I would. Maybe my skin is just getting tougher, but I'd like to think I'm actually getting better at this writing thing...LOL

Sep 18, 2009

Woman, the Ultimate Creation

I've recently been reading, "Captivating: Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman's Soul" by John & Stasi Eldridge. I picked it up thinking I would enjoy a little light reading, but have been totally engulfed by its uplifting and positive references to what a woman is all about. I want to share a little bit of it with you here, in reference to the creation of Eve.

"It is nearing the end of the sixth day, the end of the Creator's great labor, as Adam steps forth, the image of God, the triumph of his work. He alone is pronounced the son of God. Nothing in creation even comes close. Truly, the masterpiece seems complete. And yet, the Master says that something is not good, not right. Something is missing . . . and that something is Eve.

"She is the crescendo, the final, astonishing work of God. Woman. In one last flourish creation comes to a finish not with Adam, but with Eve. She is the Master's finishing touch.

"Given the way creation unfolds, how it builds to ever higher and higher works of art, can there be any doubt that Eve is the crown of creation? Not an afterthought. Not a nice addition like an ornament on a tree. She is God's final touch, his piece de resistance. She fills a place in the world nothing and no one else can fill.

"Think of it. The world is young and completely unstained. Adam is yet in his innocence and full of glory. He walks with God. Nothing stands between them. They share something none of us has ever known, only longed for: an unbroken friendship, untouched by sin. Yet something is not good? Something is missing? What could it possibly be? Eve. Woman. Femininity. Wow. Talk about significant."

I can't tell you what comfort this gave me when I read it. I, Christine Bryant, have worth. I am a woman and am held in high esteem by my Father in Heaven.

This week, when you look in the mirror every morning--hair all askew, no makeup and sporting those worn out pjs and slippers--say to yourself, "I am the crown of creation, God's final touch in creating the world. I am beautiful and I matter." And then believe it.