I’m delighted to report that last week’s communication from the cockpit reached the splendidly brave Rebecca! Here’s what she wrote to me after joining last Thursday’s Prompt of the Week session:
It’s been in the back of my mind for a very long time to join a creative writing group.
When I participated at LEAF [a short workshop with Navé], I felt like, yes! I can do this. Then I got timid and scared again, feeling like I’d compare myself and be a much worse writer than anyone already in a writing group. So I made myself an excuse each week not to join, (I’ve been on your mailing list a while), even though I so wanted to write with y’all (my gut knew that, even though I really didn’t know what I was getting myself into.)
That’s the bravery part. I do show up and try things out, even if my body and voice is shaking. Even when that damn critic is trying to hold me down.
Might you be feeling something similar? If so, dear people, take heart. Our method is simple: you cannot write wrong. If you come and write, you have achieved 100% success.
If you long for success in your life, here’s some free for the taking. OK, it may not be quite the success you had in mind, but the universe laughs when humans make plans, and in my experience it gives you gifts you don’t ask for rather than those you do.
Can you detach your hopes for an hour from the particular success you’re looking for? You’re not lowering the bar; you’re expanding the possibilities. One success breeds another. You get in the habit of succeeding once you allow yourself to succeed.
Here’s Rebecca’s description of her success:
I’m grateful that you both offer this free workshop. I’m grateful for all the things I’ve heard you each say that helped me to show up this evening and write, and then read it aloud.
I’m excited to write more.
Then, on Saturday, another newcomer joined us. She too had been anxious. Here’s what she wrote to me afterward:
Well I'm glad I took the plunge tonight.
Initially I wasn't sure how to navigate the 10 minutes of writing I stayed very much on piste, but after hearing the other writers who were terrific , the penny dropped and I could see how far we can stretch ourselves.
A splendid result! More recalcitrance overcome!
I will leave you with the comment Marianne Furedi posted on last week’s newsletter. She was once a stranger to us, tentative about whether she belonged and whether her writing was up to scratch. I’m happy to report that didn’t last long!
Dear, dear pilots, what a charming, lovely invitation! I, as a frequent flyer, must offer my endorsement: Your carrier affords the best means of passage to some of the most engaging sites of creativity this wannabe writer has ever visited. Thank you for the ease, comfort, beauty, and FUN you have made available!
Will our next new passenger be you?