When I was in college, I remember attending a class as part of my theater minor studies. It took place in the college’s black box theater. We were discussing the a play—I don’t even remember which one, sadly—and I raised my hand to ask a question. When my professor called on me, I screwed up my courage and asked, “what makes something (meaning writing) good?” I remember Dr. Jack Ramsey’s eyes widening and becoming bright, and his broad smile. I don’t remember his exact reply; but I remember his eyes meeting mine, and realizing that he had not only heard my question, but that it pleased him and he took my question seriously. Throughout the remainder of my time there, Dr. Ramsey would often remind me of that question, and point out things in class or during rehearsals that he felt were part of the answer to the question of “what makes something good?”
This question still lives in my mind and heart. Can I produce “something good”, something of quality that is beautiful and truthful and enduring? My voice is only a single drop in an ocean of voices. This realization might silence me except for a second monumental moment that occurred after I graduated college when, in a church fellowship hall after a covered dish dinner, I found myself spilling my broken heart to a couple who listened to me and had no solution to offer me except to introduce me to Jesus. At that moment it was as if I had been drowning and finally found a foothold to push my nose above the waterline. Since that moment He has led me out of my customized hell toward emotional health and freedom in His kingdom. Writing has been an integral part of this journey.
I don’t know if my work will ever reach the level to which I aspire, but I still strive to create work that is excellent, entertaining and eternal. I hope that if I am faithful, even if I never attain success on earth, my Audience—the only One Who Matters—will be pleased.