Divine Intervention?!

I become quite disheartened when I don't write, or write enough.  Without a deadline, or accountability this process can be overwhelming.  I often let other things get in the way (or I should say, my way) and later pay the price by feeling as though I have failed.  I let  phone calls, cleaning, grocery shopping and laundry disrupt my good intentions.

And just when I am about to give up, (after all, who do I think I am), providence steps in.

I was reading the recent July issue of Oprah Magazine and came across an article by Aimee Bender, "A Contract of One's Own."  I was sure she was talking to me.  She explains, "Writing can be a frightening, distressing business."  But goes on to say that "For almost 17 years..." she has "...been faithful to a two-hours-a-day routine, every morning, five or six days a week." 

The most interesting part of this article was the contract she cosigned years ago to help a friend focus on her story writing.  It is a document giving the writer structure as well as acknowledgment from another human being, in this often solitary process.

After all, no one knows when I am writing or how much.  And the truth is when I do write, whether it appears good or bad, I feel satisfied and accomplished.  For me it is the journey, not particularly what the outcome will be.  

However, when there is no one to check in with, I flounder a bit and question the validity of the journey I have embarked upon. 

This all seemed divine in it's timeliness.  Doubt was beginning to drown out my desire.  So, I downloaded the contract and asked my daughter to enter into the agreement with me.  I will send an email each day, saying "Done" when I have completed my agreed hours of writing and she will email back "Check."  Knowing there will be affirmation at day's end is the kick in the pants I need!

July Issue of The Oprah Magazine