Let The Words Be With You…

My son and I went on a movie marathon, watching the first three Star Wars movies. I was completely enthralled that I loved them just as much the 100th time watching, but the most fun was sharing the series with my little one and getting to explain the plot, now that all six have finally been made. We talked about evil turning to good, honor among Jedis, and the power of the Force, for both good and bad. Darth Vador was a fascinating character because he encompassed all our basic human qualities: lust, rage, greed, betrayal, evil, and good.

Believing in the Force doesn’t mean everything will always work out. People died anyway. Evil won a lot. But at the very end, when Luke triumphed, and Anakin was reborn, we both breathed a sigh of relief, and our faith was restored.

As writers, our gift is our words and the ability to use them. We are special because we have been given that gift, and can use it in many different ways. I read a wonderful quote from one of my favorite writing books by Julia Cameron, The Artist’s Way:

“Creativity is God’s gift to us. Using our Creativity is our gift back to God”.

Words can hurt or inspire, both verbal and written. Words can bring joy and peace, or sorrow and loss. Words can relate to good or evil.

This is not just about being writers. It’s about being human and communicating daily. I want to use my words to be a better mother, wife, daughter, teacher, student, and friend. To dig deep and speak from the heart…with kindness. The world needs so much more kindness.

As we end this year, and take a break for the holidays, I know everyone will face their own special challenges. So let’s be brave and face them together. Let’s use the force of our creativity and gift for good. Let’s push ourselves farther than we’ve ever been before, and never give up.

And my greatest wish for everyone this year?

LET THE WORDS BE WITH YOU….