The Write Canada conference grounds in Guelph, ON
Have you ever wondered what inspires authors to write what they write? I’ll give you a quick glance into the life of a writer with a little piece I wrote 5 years ago.
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When God first called me to write, I was so excited and ready to do His will. But I didn’t know the first thing about the business of writing (besides the fact that I enjoyed it and kept a regular journal). When I saw an advertisement in testimony magazine for the God Uses Ink (now Write Canada) conference, hosted by The Word Guild, I felt led to attend.
At this conference, I excitedly signed up for every class and booked one-on-one appointments for every spare moment. I couldn’t get enough! I learned all about writing for children, writing for newspapers, writing for magazines, writing for publishing houses etc.
From there, it was a process of elimination. I tried just about everything…. I tried writing poems, writing for children, writing articles, writing songs, writing book reviews, writing short stories etc. I liked it all but felt torn and unfocused. I needed to narrow my love of writing into where I best fit.
I took two excellent on-line courses; a devotional writing course (by The Word Guild’s own Marcia Laycock) and a children’s writing course.
In the meantime, I wrote a nonfiction book on health and fitness, articles on health, a weekly faith column for mainstream newspapers, and I started a novel. Through all this, I learned that I don’t mind articles but only if I’m invited to submit. I don’t want to interview people. I don’t like research. I don’t want to be a journalist. I like to write songs but feel that’ll be in the future. And so on.
I am glad to have the opportunity to pursue my interests slowly and discover in my own time where God wants me. I also pray and ask for guidance daily. If you are called to write, there are many opportunities to use your gift – have fun and enjoy exploring your call! First step? Try a writer’s conference such as Write Canada. You won’t regret it!
Janis Cox and myself at Write Canada
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Books for Book Lovers Blog 
Oh you bring back so many memories of all the courses I have taken. I, too, have had to learn to zoom in on what I am called to write about. Probably will miss this year’s conference due to grandbaby’s arrival but will certainly be praying for all the participants and leaders.
Blessings,
Janis
Jan, I can’t even imagine what this year will be like without you!!! 😦