Sometimes I Forget

     As a writer, I know the value of words. I put such time, effort, and agonizing into putting words together in such a way as to carefully craft the image or emotion I mean to convey to the readers of my stories or posts.
     And yet, in my everyday life I can lose sight of what I know to be true. It is easy to get overwhelmed by day to day events and sometimes I forget.
     Sometimes I am careless with the what I treasure most-the words I choose to use and share. And this can negatively affect what I treasure most of all-the people I come in contact with in my daily life. I am fortunate to be blessed with so many positively influential people among my friends, family, and co-workers.
     They often say or do things that cause me to pause and reflect on what I am saying or doing. The other day a co-worker said something simple, to the effect of, "Heaven forgive me for what I am saying," and this was enough to make me pause and realize what I was contributing in a positive or negative way to the conversation at hand.
     Upon further reflection, I realized that all too often when I am speaking out of a place of fear or worry, I let all my convictions about speaking with care and caution disappear. This incident has allowed me to really consider how and what I communicate with the people I am in community with on a daily basis. She may not realize it, but this co-worker woke me up to an area in my own communication skills that I want and need to work on.
     Later in the evening this same co-worker was reading something on her phone and chuckling away. I was hopeful that she would share with me the details of what ever amusing anecdote she was reading. When she was done she turned and said to me, "That was really cute!" I was confused. Then she said, "Oh, I thought you knew. I downloaded your book!" That was one of the best compliments I have ever received on my writing!
     A few days later a letter was given to me from another co-worker that was moving on to new job. This was someone that I had worked with closely on several projects and have become good friends with as well. We have lifted each other up through a difficult situation and encouraged each other on our writing journeys. His note confirmed for me that he was appreciative of the same facts that I was. And it was such a shining moment for me to realize that I had helped a fellow writer out in the ways that he stated in his letter.
     I am glad I am still receptive to teachable moments. I still have a lot to learn as travel along. These moments this week reinforced the importance of taking caring with the words you say and put into print. You never know who you might be lifting up or encouraging or giving strength to with what you say.
     To encourage a writer friend of mine-I want to share a link to his blog. He writes really great music reviews. After reading many of them-I have learned much and found new artists to enjoy!

http://brettbilledeau.blogspot.com/

     On another note, I will be posting more later about my little storybook turned play. "Green Goo" will soon be on the stage. I am excited to see where this journey of words takes me!