What would you grow in your life and why?

     Today, I was reading a magazine whose theme was about growing things that are healthy. It posed a question for all its readers:  What would you grow in your life and why? It could be anything--friendship, business or even a talent. I pondered the question for a moment and then of course my answer came down to writing.

     In my garden of life I have grown and cultivated many things--piano, running, knitting (if you count four crooked scarves and an attempt at a baby blanket-which I totally do), gardening, cooking, and parenting (this one is an on going cultivation). I am sure there are many other things I could add to the list, but none of them take up more space in my little garden, at the moment, than writing. 

     Why writing? 

     Well...I love to read. Some might say I am an avid reader. Because of this, I am constantly hunting for the next great book to read--one I can lose myself in. Sometimes this hunt can be quite frustrating. As I thought about what it was I was looking for, I became intrigued by the thought of writers being able to navigate their own stories and dictate (to an extent) where their dream would go. That's when I began researching how writers did their craft.

      I have found that the craft of writing fascinates me. It's a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Some days I am thrilled with where my story takes me and how the characters are blossoming right inside my mind. But, then there are days where inspiration feels like it has fallen off the face of the earth and I am scared that I will never write down another good word to save my life. Those are the moments I want to quit and give up. The creeping suspicion enters my thoughts that there is a good chance my story may never see the light of day...that maybe I am wasting a lot of time.

      Normally, that is where I would say enough is enough and quit...if my story and the characters inside my head would let me. (Enter the crazy lady.) But they won't. When I try and take a step back, I catch myself thinking about the story and a different route my character could take. Then I find myself back at the keyboard typing furiously away. Now I know something I never knew about myself. 

     I. Need. To. Write.

     I have also learned something else as equally important. 

     I. Am. Not. Alone. 

     So, I suppose what I am saying is that no matter what stage we are at in our lives, there is always a plot of earth in our minds waiting to be cultivated. Inside that dirt is something waiting for us to find. Something we may never have thought ourselves ever trying to do. It's thrilling and exciting and scary and frustrating...Heck! (I'm from Utah.) There are times when we feel down right exposed and vulnerable. But, those are the moments that I have found myself growing the most. In the end, isn't that what we are all here for? To find our inner selves? 

     Happy gardening, to all of you brave enough to explore what is waiting for you! I hope you find courage when there is doubt and happiness when you have your moments of inspiration!