A Writing Epiphany

I had an epiphany a few days ago and thought I'd share it.

Writing is a lot like raising kids.

They both need important tasks done frequently that can seem mundane.  I don't know how many thousands of diapers I've changed, but I do know it's important.  The repetitive parts of writing can seem mundane too, but they build and get more exciting.

Kids and writing both grow with repetitive habits.  A child needs to see a letter and hear its sounds hundreds of times before he can read the words it makes.  Similarly, a writer needs to put some proverbial ink in the notebook daily to teach her mind and body how to write.

A community does wonderful things.  Getting support, encouragement, and ideas does wonders for mommies and writers.  It's nice to know someone else has been (or is) in the exact same spot as you!

Kids and writing change constantly.  They both grow and have new needs as they meet new days, months, and years.  Mommies and writers have to grow too!  Only in growing are we capable of using challenges to reach new heights and change as momentum for progress.

Kids and writing both thrive on routine.  My kids know that after lunch they take naps.  There is no question or argument.  They just know.  Similarly, I look forward to nap/writing time each day.  It's something that just happens.  Sadly, when I don't get my writing time I am as cranky as a two-year old who didn't get a nap!

One joy can make up for a thousand stresses.  When my three-year old gave me a hug last night and said, "Mommy, I just want to keep you forever!" I completely forgot every silly argument and melt-down she had dramatized during the day.  Likewise, every article I sell and every bit of positive feedback re-energizes me and reminds me how much I love to write.  Cheap thrills are a wonderful thing.

It's a small epiphany, but it's a lot of fun to see how much raising kids and writing have in common.  The best part is how much each "part" of my life can learn from the other.  What about you?  You learn about writing from writing, but where else do you learn about writing?  I'd love to hear from you!