The Journey of a Writer

Hey ho everyone! I just got the acceptance letter for this piece today from the editor of Skipping Stones. I wrote this in 8th grade, so I just wanted to see what you guys thought of it (hope you like it). Just a random little essay turned into my first published piece!!!!! Yippee!!!!

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The Journey of a Writer

I am a writer. Four simple words, but those that hold such responsibility.

I have wanted to be a writer ever since I can remember. I recall my first written stories were a retelling of the three bears, complete with illustrations. I would proudly thrust the “story” into my mom’s hand, who would smile encouragingly, but know it was the same thing every day.

For a little while, I was caught up in the common six-eight year old’s dreams- becoming a famous Olympic skater, becoming president, and many other imaginative, but wild ideas. There was always that secret longing to write, though.

My desire to write was renewed when, one morning, while looking through mail from the previous day, I discovered an advertisement requesting authors that would write for children. I scampered down my hallway, woke up my mom, and eagerly asked her if I could do the writing program. She gave her consent, so I sent away for the information, filled out the necessary papers, including a writing example, and received kind, but disheartening news. The company said I had great writing potential, but broke the news that I was too young to be considered being published by them. I was nine years old at the time.

For awhile, I was fascinated by mystery stories, so naturally I wanted to write my own mystery series. The farthest I got on that “series” was the first page of the first book. I also attempted to write a chapter book on a basketball player named Jewel, but after the first two chapters, there was no plot, so I gave up on that, too.

Finally, in sixth grade, I attempted my most difficult project yet-writing a historical fiction, forty page novel, located in Denmark during World War II. Due to the support of my parents, the guidance of a writing program, and increased enthusiasm, I succeeded in this venture. Although I have not been published officially, I went to a local copying store, bound my book, and distributed it to a few friends and family.

A few months ago, I sent an opinion-related article to the magazine Teen Ink, and, although they confirmed that they received my article, I have not heard from them since.

By calling myself a writer, I am putting a great responsibility on myself. I have accepted the task of expressing my words and ideas to other people. By being a writer, I must make sure that my writing doesn’t harm anybody and that it doesn’t contain any immoral ideas. I must be sure that I do my research thoroughly and don’t invent any ideas to sound intelligent. I must write in a way where people can understand me, but at the same time ponder at least a little on what I communicate to them. And first and foremost, I must always remain true to God and to myself.

As a writer, I expect many ups and downs in the publishing world. I thank God for giving me the ability to be a writer. I know I will continue to have many worthwhile experiences, whether good or bad, and no matter what, continue to follow my greatest dream-to be a writer.