From what I’ve read, the Pulitzer Prize winning author Willa Cather, had a hard time finding her True Voice in her writing.  It’s hard to believe now, nearly 100 years after O Pioneers! and My Antonia were published and were so popular with both the readers and the critics.

Apparently, what changed things for her were some words from a friend, author Sarah Horne Jewett, who encouraged her to “write what she knew.”  Wow, what good advice.

I am committing to you that I will take that advice for myself today, this week and beyond.  You see, I am rounding the corner and heading toward the end of the interview portion for the book that I am writing.  And what that really means is that I am starting the writing part now, in earnest.  This is both exciting and terrifying to me!  Will I honor my time commitment to myself?  Will I do justice to the amazing women who have offered their time and wisdom to this project already??  Will what I have to say be of any help or even interest to anyone but myself???

These are only a few of the questions I am facing.  Yet, rather than indulging in them, I intend instead to listen to the words of Ms. Jewett, and write what I know.  What the heck – it worked for Willa, didn’t it?

Laura Biering has an infectious zeal for coaching people who want to do enlivening work and live inspired lives. She's fired up about the power of taking risks - great and small - and the rewards that come as a result. She's also passionate about (1) creativity and authenticity and their potential to change the world, (2) frolicking with her adorable four-legged children, and (3) retreating with those she loves at her farm in Southeast Georgia, Brinson's Race. Visit her website at True Voices.
Email this author | All posts by Laura Biering