The times are a-changing sang 70’s folk singers. Fifty years later, we're buffeted by tidal waves crashing mayhem into our lives. How can we ride them rather than flounder and sink?
Writers can express words of hope for the many who struggle around Australia, the globe.
Fellow authors encourage
Did you sign up for NaNoWriMo? Did you meet the goal to write 50,000 words? For the uninitiated, like-minded writers group in a digital ‘cabin’ to encourage each other, joke, support and share emojis of chocolate and coffee.
November is the cruellest month for tired teachers drowning in end of year concerts, student exams, reports. Plus their own performances. So I knew there was slim chance I’d meet the word count but hey, I enjoy the friendship. This year, I produced a teensy 670 words. But so what? Just to articulate a project prompts subconscious planning. My WriMo version can evolve over the next two months when teaching and performing halt.
Other writing counts
There are many forms of writing besides that novel or screenplay. Emails to politicians, letters to the editor of a newspaper. Heartening messages to uplift those who share their despair on social media. Many dread uncertain futures. How can we reassure them–ourselves–that even as doors shut, others will open?
Active vs. passive shutting
As I clear out my teaching studio for the year (maybe forever?) I'm heartened by a gospel spiritual that never seemed appropriate for primary school students:
Shut de door, keep out de devil
Shut de door, keep de devil in de night.
Shut de door, keep out de devil
Light a candle, everything’s alright.
The Light of the World
The Holman Hunt painting reminds us to open our heart and life doors to Christ.
One opening door is opportunities to share Christ's light with hurting, fearful people. To encourage those facing doors slamming on their career, business, mortgage – and life.
Edicts from our rulers threaten that those who resist will be barred from public buildings.
Was my November performance with Noosa Orchestra my last ever? The program included The Lark Ascending for solo violin and orchestra. I poured my heart into the supporting clarinet solos.
The lark circles higher, soars, surmounts the ugliness of the present world.
So, also we must lift up our hearts.
'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.' (Jeremiah 29:11)
Keep looking up.
ABOUT Ruth Bonetti
Ruth's many earlier books give practical support for confident performance of words and music, drawing on a lifetime of experience as a musician and educator. Her Trilogy Midnight Sun to Southern Cross has won awards including the CALEB Nonfiction prize. In coming writing, Ruth is open to a genre transition...
Blog (occasional!)
Encouraging words, Ruth. Yes, as we keep our eyes on Jesus in these times, we can find peace ourselves and through this encourage others who may be struggling.
ReplyDeleteWhat wonderful picture of choosing to soar above the darkness of the world. Thanks Ruth for sharing us and challenging us to use our gifts at this time. Praying for you and countless others at this time.
ReplyDeleteThanks Heather and Jo, glad my words resonated with you and encouraged. God bless.
ReplyDelete