Writing is a lonely business. It’s just you, your thoughts, and your implement of choice for capturing your words — computer, pen, voice recorder. No one can write for you. You may have taken courses, gone to conferences, learned from the best, but still—when you sit down to compose your thoughts, write your story or tap into your creativity—you do it alone.
When I was a reporter, I had to write while surrounded by people. The newsroom was a noisy place with people shouting, laughing, talking about what they were working on and an editor shouting at someone about something they wrote. I had to produce three stories a day, including develop the story, interview people, check my facts and race back to the newsroom to file the stories before a 5 o’clock deadline. I became very fast at writing accurately and succinctly.
Even though I had people around me, I learned how to block it out and let go of the distractions. I focused on the composition of my words. Everything just faded away as I put the story together. Every word I put down was mine. Every fact I laid out was a fact I had obtained. I was responsible for every perception and bias that found its way into my story, and I had to answer to a relentless editor.
That is probably why when I write now, I need background noise—music, television, radio or environmental sounds. On some subconscious level, I don’t want to lose myself completely, so I try to stay connected. I know there are some people who must have absolute quiet when they write. I am not one of them. No matter what level of distraction you need or lack thereof to focus your attention, you still write alone.
When I am in the creative flow, hours fly by. I am alone, but not alone. I know the spirit of the Creator works through me, my thoughts and impressions. I tap into my own spirit to create something with words. This is never more obvious than when I put my words out there for others to read. I am vulnerable and prepare myself for the criticism, the buzz, or dead silence–but I do not have to face them alone. The Holy Spirit of God works with me, through me, for His glory.