What’s Your Story?

March 30th, 2013

Today the Cape Cod Children’s Writers held one of our writing retreats where new writers bring their tender, new-born work to be critiqued. I love working with writers who sit in the same seat I sat in two years ago – scared, holding the very first thing I’ve ever written. I remember being so nervous to share my work that I read it so fast they kept stopping me and telling me to slow down. After I finished reading I remember how I sat in extreme angst waiting for the critique to start. What if it’s awful? What if they hate it? What if they tell me I can’t write and I can’t embark on this new career?

Back then those feelings were so real. In the last two years, working with new writers from the other side of the table, I firmly believe that ALL of us could be a writer. Yes, I mean you, too. Everyone has a story. It’s just a matter of desire to share that story. Some people are very private and they wouldn’t ever want to share their story. That doesn’t mean they can’t. That doesn’t mean they aren’t a writer. It just means they choose not to be one. I believe the potential to share our lives through a story exists in every human being, young or old. Everyone has something worth sharing. Every heart has battle scars and victory flags waving and that’s where the best stories lie.

So when new writers bring their new-born babies to our table, I treat them with the utmost respect. I am honest – as I always was as a teacher with my young students – because not being so would be a disservice to them as growing writers. I try to deliver my honesty in a way that will encourage and inspire the new writer to raise their baby, growing it into a mature piece of writing to be shared with children.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time with them today. I am continually amazed at the creative content they bring to the table. If you are a new writer, bring your work to a Cape Cod Children’s Writers Retreat. We will guide you and help you grow your story.

And so, as another day goes by, share your story – it may change a life, and …I have written.
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Cape Cod Children’s Writers