Writing Will Set You Free©

Today a young man at my gym told me that he is an aspiring actor and writer and asked me to describe how “Behind the Shadows” came to be. I explained how it began as a short story that took on a life of its own; and how the characters guided me through their trials and tribulations. The look of amazement on that young man’s face surprised me, because for me, it was only natural for my characters to tell me their story.

I asked him what he was writing and he explained that, although his ambition is to write, between working a “regular” job and acting, he just doesn’t have the time. I am sorry to say that I too spent many years wanting to write and never having the time to do so. My advice to this young man was to “write in his mind” and instead of getting another look of amazement from him, I saw a look of recognition register on his face. He knew exactly what I meant. I urged him to make time to write, even if was just a few lines a day.

I am looking forward to someday seeing his face on a book jacket. If it takes a few years or a lifetime, I will continue to search for his face. And when I find it, I will know that he too will pass the torch on to another aspiring writer.

HAPPY WRITING!