My friend who worked in a high-paying mining job once tried to console me by making a joke.”You’re a writer — people think you must walk your dogs along the beach every morning and sip caffé latte.”
While I did live at the beach I was barely earning enough to pay expenses. Driving a 20-year-old car with a broken speedo and with every second magazine editor demanding an enormous amount of work in return for pennies, I’d had enough.
Why bother?
Working in cushy government roles as media liaison or communication consultant is far more profitable with average wages these days in the six-figures.
=Q=
Whereas the golden quill lost its lustre every time I thought of an ex-publisher profiting from ripping off one of my books while I repaired my $20 track pants to eke out another season.
So why write?
Despite the hardships, disrespect and lack of regular income … it still isn’t too hard to answer.
Because I need the outlet.
Because I love to write and watch the delicious words blend and swirl as they take the reader on a dream.
Because I love to tell a story and hope it uplifts or forces change or corrects injustice.
Because like all artists I love to create and use words the way a painter uses colour.
Because, because, because, because …
And when I am ready to tear my hair out I go back to rereading Chicken Soup for the Writers’ Soul or thrash out grievances with my lovely writer and journalist friends around the world.
Or, like today, I can indulge in the loveliness and heartfelt dedication of writing my three books about the spirit of aloha in Hawaii, published in the United States, and note how gorgeous it feels for L.A. journalist Bekah Wright to write about me!
Mostly, though I write because I know how powerful a voice with the chance to be heard can be.
I know an uplifting story can influence another person’s perspective.
I know a beautiful word can mend ever-so a person’s deflated spirit.
I know a story shared is a burden eased.
I know being a writer makes me very, very happy.
And I know words are sacred.
Words have the energy to do or undo.
I know, I know, I know, I know …
I know I am a Word Artist® and it is rare for any of us to have chosen our Art.
Because it becomes a dutiful passion.
And I can sip caffé latte while I do and undo.
Warmest Renee
Disclaimer: this blog post is intended as a beautiful and thought-provoking article for entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice and cannot substitute for medical care. No representations are made as to the completeness of any information and the author is not liable for any losses, injuries or damages from the use of this information.
