Need to Write

I've taken a long break from blogging. But, oddly, in the meantime I've grown in my desire to write. I've started (but not finished) journal entries, short stories, and books for kids. I even took an on-line fiction writing class. But I'm so disappointed with my meager skills! And I don't just say that from modesty -- that's blatant honesty.

Why would I be given a passion for writing without being given the skill to do it well? I've struggled with that in my head even though the answer is obvious: most gifts do not come fully formed but need constant use to be of use. Musicians practice for hours a day to perfect their music, artisans work years to perfect their art. And so do writers. I think of Malcolm Gladwell's book Outliers, in which the authors says that those who are truly considered gifted have typically put in 10,000 hours of practice. Whew! Okay, maybe by the time of 80 if I keep at it. But I'll never achieve anything without consistent attempts, so it's time to just plunge in and write.

So here I am again, trying to grow in skill and comfort. Lord, if this really is a gift You can use, please give me the courage to keep trying and guidance in its use for Your glory.