Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Table Topics - Writing a Book

One of my resolutions for this year is to attempt to begin writing a book. Part of the delay in my motivation, aside from other things being more of a priority, is deciding which direction to take. I have lots of ideas, but nothing that is bubbling to the top. So I've decided to open it up to my blog readers....those great folks that endure my babbling on a regular basis and can point me in some direction. Here, in no particular order, are my options:

Devotional Book - I've written a lot of devotions for folks taking mission trips through the years and many of my spiritually-focused blog posts are suitable for converting to devotions which makes me consider compiling the work I've done, adding to it and creating a complete devotional book. This option is probably the path of least resistance.

Lifestyle Discipleship/Mentoring - This is my passion in ministry. After my Mom passed away, God showed me the importance of a godly mother and being able to be that to those who didn't have the awesome Mom I did. Through that path, I've developed a training curriculum and resources to help people get started. I've done seminars but never compiled it in book format. I'm a firm believer that "one size does not fit all" when it comes to discipling and mentoring and I've always wanted to get all that organized and published.

Dealing with Singleness - I'd have never dreamed I'd be single at this age, but I remind those that ask that I'm single by God's Design, not my choice. Even though I've walked this road not chosen, I've learned a lot along the way. I have some ideas on paper for this one as well, and want to make it as humor-filled as it is spirit-filled. So many times in my journey, someone would encourage me in a wonderful way spiritually when really, all I needed was someone to laugh with me. If I choose this option, I'd want to do both.

Fictional Story - This is the least developed of all the options. But since I love reading fiction and enjoy a story rich with plot and developed characters, I've often dreamed of writing a novel. I have no clue what the story would be, but I'd develop characters and go from there, just like a good creative writing instructor would tell you.

Let's hear from the audience....Which option should I choose?

6 comments:

Katrina said...

I think the book on singleness could be such a blessing to those who, like you, are taking a path they didn't choose and learning not only to wait on the Lord, but to stop waiting and live their best life now. I've had so many girlfriends struggle with this, and I think a good book on the subject is needed!

Amy said...

I'm with Katrina. I say singleness, too, as my first choice for you. Secondly, I'd say discipleship/mentoring. But here's the thing about that--so much of that is built on forming relationships. And no matter what kinds of books you can read on the subject, you can't teach someone how to build relationships.
And that's your gift, my dear friend.

The M Family said...

i really mean this though it seems like a cop out...i think you should write all four...starting with the top of the list and moving down from there!

Anonymous said...

I am always highly opinionated, dearest friend.

My vote is for a book on discipleship that emphasizes discipleship in the everyday. Kay Arthur has done well in the "how to study your Bible" format. Beth Moore has also written many curricula. I think you'd be great in developing a book on your infamous "Table Topics"--little sparks to ignite deep introspective spiritual conversations from mundane situations. I don't know how you'd teach someone how to do it, but you've certainly made me more deliberate about doing such.

I guess my second choice is singleness. To say such makes me want to vomit a little, but I have a feeling you could make it sound less pathetic. I wouldn't search for such a book on my own, because I just don't think about my singleness and I certainly don't feel pathetic. I live in the day-by-day and don't often dwell on what I don't have. It just doesn't help to go there just for the sake of wanting to be like other people. I'd rather you wrote a book about seizing every blessed day, single or not.

My two pennies for you. :)

Alisa said...

First the one on singleness and then the discipleship one. Include in the singleness one a chapter, "What singles wish the married knew (or remembered) about being single." ;)

I'd buy all four, Rosie!

Lora B said...

I agree. You should do all 4!

But who am I to say that when I have ideas tumbling around in my own head and haven't taken solid steps to put them in book format?

You inspire me, my friend, and I'm proud of ya!