Writing Practice: Writing Together

Here is Week Six in the series that companions Encircled by Love from the Missional Wisdom Foundation. I hope you have enjoyed this as much as I have.

This week we are going to be doing something brave, and something I don’t talk about a lot. We are going to be sharing what we write. Sometimes writing practice does not need to be shared, but that does not mean that it shouldn’t be. We frequently communicate through written language. Now that you have developed a writing practice and mindset, let’s try something! Let’s try to write something that others can see. You pick the medium, audience, and length. I will pick the prompt. The only extra instructions this week will be to proof read AFTER you do your writing practice. Set your timer, write, THEN edit. No editing while you write. You are trying to get to the images that rise, don’t worry about the commas and spelling. While you write. Don’t not worry about them. Once you have written for the time required, read through what you wrote. Make it beautiful. Pick a vivid verb to replace was or seemed to be… Be proud of your words. Then send it. To anyone. In a letter or email or text message. Be brave. Let go of your words. Once you send them, they are gone to do what they do. They aren’t yours and they aren’t you. Y’all danced for a moment. Be pleased by but not precious with your words.

Writing Prompt: On an October afternoon…

3-5 minute session

Writing Practice Rules:

• Grab a pen and paper or dictation device or computer

• Write/record the prompt at the top of your page

• Set a timer (you can adjust the time to suit your needs…I keep the practices short so they don’t seem overwhelming)

• Take a few moments to visualize what the prompt is bringing up

• Write or speak or type!! Try not to edit or criticize. Just write.

• Write the details of what is coming up. I call this catching what rises.

• If you get stuck, make loops with your pen or nonsense syllables with your voice or tap the keyboard