The act of writing is a spiritual
journey through one's own soul. Whether pen to paper or fingers to keyboard,
writing challenges the very essence of humanity in ways tools and technology
never touch upon. For theirs is the superficial realm that dazzles the
senses with brilliant colour and contour. But writing reaches deep beyond
the masks we wear for the world and locates
our fundamental motivators. It speaks
to that special part destined to live after our bodies fail.
The world is a material playground often
seducing flesh to dangerous distraction. Television screens sweep the landscape
like locusts devouring harvest grain. Electronic toys lead the young in
a ballet of unbelievable violence. Some listen to the prophets of old and
think the last days are upon us. Others turn away and think it all a trashy
trend with a profitable end.
Writers know different. They know new
heroes are needed to guide the people. They know new stories must be written
to inspire another generation to greater heights. They know the Earth is
not the end, it is merely the beginning of human exploration. They know
writing not only stirs the writer's soul but the readers as well.
Writers know different because writers
are different. They are attuned to the song softly playing in the head
of every human being. The cosmic aria interwoven throughout our genetic
structure that separates man from ape. A glorious gift from God each person
receives, but only the artist harnesses to full expression. Could it be
that artists are born to remind us all of this
spiritual song imbedded in immortal
souls?
Much mystery remains as to the exact
meaning of one's song or "conscience." Writers more than most seem to tap
into this area of information and navigate their creations like latter-day
captains steering their ships by stars. What is not in dispute is why writers
like writing even though a tremendous amount of work goes into each delicate
project. Writers frequently use writing as a means of self-revelation.
An excellent method to shake off the sheer nonsense of a world drowning
in material excess. Writing has always been a way to make it back home
when one's voyage far away has drained the spirit. Its impact on readers
can be such that they too begin to respect the roots that made them what
they are. And commit this knowledge to a letter that warms a heart and
restores a tired soul.
