The pastor’s response was, “You need to get that published.”
Of course getting published has been my goal for several years. I still have moments of wondering if it will ever happen. But being recognized as a writer by others really gave me a high. I kept relishing those words over and over the rest of the day.
Isn’t that our goal as writers, to be recognized for what we do without having to come right out and announce it? In fact, isn’t that anyone’s goal? Spend time with children and have someone recognize you as a teacher? Serve a great meal and have someone recognize you as a chef? Hum an impromptu tune and have someone recognize you as a singer?
The ultimate flattery is having people see in you what you’ve set your heart on becoming.
The best model of this concept is Jesus. He touched the infirm in a way that caused people to see Him as a healer. He spoke the words that led people to call him teacher. He walked in such a way that people followed, acknowledging Him as a leader. And He died in such a way that people recognized Him as Messiah.
You can tell people anything you want but they won’t necessarily be convinced. Show them through your daily actions and they will not only recognize you for what you are, they will also call it out to others. Writer, friend, Christian – not titles I can put on myself. Only when others put those labels on me do they have true meaning.
We need to work harder at living the role and not so hard at telling the role. Hey – I believe that is the theme song of a writer – show don’t tell.
We prove ourselves by our purity, our understanding, our patience, our kindness, by the Holy Spirit within us, and by our sincere love. 2 Cor 6:6