Writing, Opening a Deep Well By Thomas Merton
“Writing is not just jotting down ideas. Often we say: “I don’t know what to write. I have no thoughts worth writing down.” But much good writing emerges from the process of writing itself. As we simply sit down in front of a sheet of paper and start to express in words what is on our minds or in our hearts, new ideas emerge, ideas that can surprise us and lead us to inner places we hardly knew were there.
One of the most satisfying aspects of writing is that it can open in us deep wells of hidden treasures that are beautiful for us as well as for others to see.”
Emphasis mine
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Writing is a process whereby we create and expand our thinking. This is why I object to using only Bible verses to answer a question. Not that I object to Bible verses. Not that the Word of the Lord doesn’t matter. But if we stop there, without paraphrasing what we read, we learn nothing of what we really think.
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April 28, 2008 at 11:34 pm
Karen Hopper
Writing is a wonderful instrument of expression. Expression very often comes from our hearts and minds. Sometimes it comes from an event, a statement heard, or a sight in our view. This type of expressed writing allows us to soar beyond ourselves into the depths of our very being. I love that. However, I love to also write from the “hidden treasures” found in the jewels scattered in the Word of God. This type of writing allows us to bring forth truths and special considerations that can bring understanding to what we love and believe. I truly enjoyed this post Helen. You really know how to draw me out, that’s for sure.
April 28, 2008 at 11:42 pm
helenl
Thanks Karen. It’s difficult to learn when we’ve said enough to quit. As writers, we refuse to accept that less is more. The painful part is taking out our favorite line, because the piece is stronger without it. That stings the ego.