Monday, November 17, 2014

Teamwork

Writing is a solitary business for the most part, and for some of us, that suits just fine. To be able to work from home piecing words and ideas together is a dream job. But as a Christian writer, my world must be bigger than my balcony desk, because I’m part of a team.

In our society, people involved in similar pursuits are often in competition. They’re running a race, trying to stay ahead, to be superior and set above the others. I have read that the general writing industry is a dog-eat-dog business, and although I realize that’s a sweeping generalization, there is truth in it. As a Christian author, however, I realize it’s not about me. Any talent I have for the written word is a gift from the God who called me, to be used to honour him.
For Christian writers the entire landscape is different:
1.  We are called to write for the glory of God
2.  We serve him best as we work together
How do we make this happen in our individualistic society?

Over the years, I’ve entered writing contests to procure feedback from judges I trust and respect, and I’ve learned much. I’ve also been honoured to judge numerous writing contests, in which I not only helped the host organizations by giving my time, but I learned much from analyzing the writing of others. Definitely a case of mutual benefit.

Christian writers’ groups such as International Christian Fiction Writers have encouraged me through personal contacts, courses and writing opportunities, and I hope I have done the same for others.

Writing conferences are a highlight in the life of a solitary writer, a time when virtual connections become reality, when friendships are formed and the meaning of teamwork becomes ever more apparent.

We’re in this together, you and I. It’s not a competition. It’s not a look-out-for-number-one scenario. As Christian writers we are part of a team, working in tandem with each other. When we consider the grand scheme of things, we can do so with hearts full of gratitude to be included in this great work of writing for God’s glory. We may be solitary beings, but we’re part of a vast team whose Author spoke the world into being and who holds the future in his hands.

Happy writing, my sisters and brothers.


6 comments:

  1. Thanks for the encouraging reminder that, as a Christian writer, I'm part of a team, writing for the glory of God. That holds true even for those of us who aren't able to attend writers conferences.

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    1. You're right, Karen. One of the great things about technology is the ease of connection with other Christian writers. Blessings on your writing.

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  2. Janice, a great reminder about the importance of team work.

    Thanks for sharing it with us.

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    1. Thanks. I always benefit from your posts too, Ian.

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  3. Thanks, Janice. Recently, I attended a Christian Writers' Conference here in Australia where there was such a great spirit of mutual support all round. Yes, I am one of those writers who is very happy to work alone, but I did enjoy that conference. And I also enjoy being part of groups such as ICFW and two others based here in Australia.

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    1. I concur. We have our various hats to wear at appropriate times, no matter what our preference is. And connecting with other Christians, especially writers, is always edifying.

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