Years ago when Desert Health’s Publisher, Lauren, lost the horse she loved, it touched memories in my heart about the departure of an equine companion. Horses rank high as the most sublime of all animals, wild and domestic. These magnificent creatures combine strength with grace. Horses became a symbol of power and royalty.
I expressed my feelings and sympathy for Lauren’s loss in a letter.

Lauren replied graciously. To my surprise, she invited me to write a column for Desert Health stating, “You can write.” I was honored as it gave me an opportunity to follow a long-time desire of mine to write.

The first writing of human beings was drawings, thousands of years ago. Much has been written about the art form and its skills. To learn from the professional authors, I have researched the field and gathered comments, advice, and guidance for my journey and yours, should you wish to embark:

Contemplating the process of writing, Minnie Lim states the following:

“The point of writing is self-expression. It is a form of meditation. You start putting thoughts out there and become aware of what you really think.”

“Writing allows you to store and organize your feelings, thoughts, and ideas coherently as opposed to keeping them all jumbled in your own mind. It turns into a liberating experience.”

“It does not matter if nobody reads your writing. The point of writing is self-expression. You cannot connect to other people without connecting first to yourself.”

Courage And Craft by Barbara Abercrombie has been my favorite guide. Here are some of her comments:

“If you do not like to read, do not write.”

“Paying attention is the most important thing you can do as a writer.”

“One reason to write is to own, literally and figuratively, the moments of your life.”

“Start writing from the inside out.”

“Be honest and specific. You do not have to be clever and literary.”

“Be careful who you allow reading your writing. Find readers who are nurturing and honest.”

E.B.White wrote: “Writing is an act of faith, not a trick of grammar.”

As a sampling from other professional writers:

“I believe good writing comes from good reading.” – Charles Kuralt.

“Writing is an exploration. You start from nothing and learn as you go.”
– E.L.Doctorov.

“Whether you are keeping a journal or writing as meditation, it’s the same thing. What is important you are having a relationship with your mind.”
– Natalie Goldberg.

“The desire to write grows with writing.” – Desiderious Erasmus.

“I like writing, but I write for self-improvement more than I do for money.” – Thomas Steinbeck.

“Without words, without writing and without books there would be no history, there would be no concept of humanity.”
– Herman Hesse.

“Writing is an antidote to loneliness.”
– Steven Berkoff

“Choreography is writing on your feet.” – Bob Fosse

This could be the beginning of a dialogue with aspiring writers like myself, accomplished authors, and critics. All suggestions, assistance…much welcome.
I am standing by at your back.

George can be reached at [email protected].