Why I Love This Journey

Last week I wrote one of "those" posts - the one that makes you feel a little bit dizzy and a whole lot terrified when you hit publish. Broken Gifts (http://graceinourmoments.blogspot.com/2013/03/broken-gifts.html?m=1) was very raw and emotional. It was hard to share, because it came from my own brokenness, but God wouldn't let go of me until I posted it. Apparently a lot of other people feel broken, too, because in just a few days, that has become my all-time top blog post. When I hear feedback from others thanking me for my honesty because they needed that message, it makes the absolute terror I felt worth it.

Writing itself has always brought me joy. There's something very cathartic about pouring out what's on my heart, getting it all on paper, putting my feelings into words, and now, thanks to blogging, sharing it. It usually doesn't take long to realize I'm not the only one feeling this way. I think that's one of the best parts of writing - realizing that I'm not alone.

When I get a comment or a tweet saying, "That was exactly what I needed to hear today," I know my voice matters. I may be a pretty small fish in a sea of writers and bloggers, but if my words can encourage one person or make a difference in one person's day, then I've accomplished something.

As much as I love it, though, I still struggle to call myself a writer. I started getting more serious with my writing a little over a year ago. I write two blogs and contribute monthly to another. I have book ideas waiting in the wings for me once I finish the first one, the one I've been plotting in my mind for years but was too afraid to put on paper. I know this is where God wants to take me because in all honesty, I would never have started this journey without His gentle nudging. But it's still hard for this shy introvert to claim the title and say "I'm a writer." Even though writing makes me feel whole and happy, it's hard to say it when I don't yet have a book in print or even an article in a magazine (although that may be about to change - I'll know in a few weeks).

One thing I've learned, though, is that God gives us dreams and gifts for a reason. He wants us to use them for His glory. And He wants us to enjoy them. I love chasing my God-sized dream. I love meeting people who share my dream and walking that road together. The whole journey really brings me joy. I can't wait to see where God takes me!