Pen & Paper
will on July 1st, 2010
Pen & Paper
It’s the most basic form of writing there is. It’s use has been around for centuries. It’s how the classics were written; and now, as my only form of writing since my computer died, it’s how I will write my book, “Evolution Of A Man.”
On Tuesday at “Touch and Agree,” my weekly prayer meeting, the topic of my book came up- primarily why I haven’t been writing and finishing it. There are 2 reasons for this. First, I’ve been feeling kinda irrelevant. Like, who am I to write a book and be listened to? What can be so compelling about me that people would actually take interest? That theory was quickly shut down as I was reminded that God planted the seed of writing this book in my head and so He wants it done. I have a voice, and who knows who my words will touch and what impact they will have. All I have to do is write. God will handle the rest.
The second reason I stopped writing is because my computer crashed several times over the last year. At first the techs and I thought it was a hard-drive issue, but as it turns out, it’s the motherboard. I could just pay for a new motherboard, but it costs so much that I might as well get a new computer. Regardless, I have NO money; so neither is really an option. At this, one of the girls from my prayer group looked at me, smiled, and said, sternly but sweetly, “handwrite it!” At first mention I thought “hell naw! Do you know how many pages that is?!?” But then she said it again, this time with a shrug of her shoulder: “yes, handwrite it!” She reminded me that that’s how books were actually written before computers existed, and she shared that that is how all of her college papers were written. It’s an undeniable method of classic writing greatness, yes; so convincing me to take on this new approach didn’t take long at all.
“Evolution Of A Man” is a journal, coupled with a few literary surprises here and there. Although it may have, and continues to live as a blog online, it really is only fitting that it be written out by hand. It’s the most authentic and simple form of writing there is; and given the personal nature of the material, there is something to be said about taking a intimately personal approach to the writing. I have a bunch of new ideas for the book; and for the first time in a long time, after not having even touched it in a year, I find myself excited about re-writing this piece of work, putting my blood, sweat and tears into pages of paper, and crafting something heartfelt, original, and most importantly, inspiring for the people who choose to embark on my journey.
I went out yesterday and bought a booklet in which to begin writing. I felt all 21st century as it’s made of organic, recyclable paper. My Berkeley professors would be proud, lol. I will begin the task of transcribing what has already been written and incorporating my new ideas tomorrow, if not this evening.
While I am still a bit fearful of my relevance, I truly believe that what I’ve experienced and what I have to say will be inspiring, helpful and motivating to others. I’ve been called to write this book, and write this book I shall. I’m excited about getting back in a creative space and writing again. It’s been a very long time, and my spirit needs rejuvenating. So with pen and paper in hand, I begin draft #4 of “Evolution Of A Man!”
