WTI Writers

2004-03-12T10:52:00.000-08:00

Since we're planning the Big Migration to South Florida, I've had questions from friends and family members (as an aside, why are they family members but we do not have friendly members? Can anyone explain this to me? E-mail me at sandilayne@sandilayne.com.)

Where was I? Oh yes. So, I've been inundated with worried looks, notes, and e-mails inquiring after my personal hurricane preparedness.

Now, I've survived earthquakes, sandstorms, monsoon seasons, and even a walk through a dark parking lot at night, but I've never been in a hurricane. So, my source of all knowledge and wisdom has thoughtfully had a guide all prepared, since 2001.

Read it and, ah, be prepared to make a quick dash to the bathroom to check your toilet.

2003-11-24T12:56:00.000-08:00

The reason for our celebration at Christmas

I got this story from my friend The Journalist and thought I'd share it with the blog.

* * *

This morning I heard a story on the radio of a woman who was out
Christmas shopping with her two children; after many hours of looking at row after row of toys and everything else imaginable, and after hours of hearing both her children asking for everything they saw on those many shelves, she finally made it to the elevator with her two kids.

She was feeling what so many of us feel during the holiday season time of the year---overwhelming pressure to go to every party, every housewarming, taste all the holiday food and treats, get that perfect gift for every single person on our shopping list, make sure we don't forget anyone on our card list, and the pressure of making sure we respond to everyone who sent us a card.

Finally the elevator doors opened and there was already a crowd in the car. She pushed her way into the car and dragged her two kids in with her and all the bags of stuff. When the doors closed she couldn't take it anymore and stated, "Whoever started this whole Christmas thing should be found, strung up and shot."

From the back of the car everyone heard a quiet, calm voice respond, "Don't worry. We already crucified him."

For the rest of the trip down the elevator it was so quiet you could have heard a pin drop.
Don't forget this year to keep the One who started this whole Christmas thing in your every thought, deed, purchase, and word. If we all did it, just think of how different this whole world would be.

2003-11-02T18:12:00.000-08:00

I'm Reading...

Techniques of the Selling Writer by Dwight V. Swain. I've always heard, you should never judge a book by its cover. I've also learned that sometimes you should never even judge a book by its title. I did both and missed reading this book when I should have read it a long time ago. Do not, I repeat, do not let the tacky $ on the cover and the seemingly money-minded title deter you from purchasing one of the greatest practical guides to writing fiction.

This book kept popping up as a must-read during the last couple of months in few writing forums I've been reading. I kept hearing positive reviews for this book from writers I respect. So I made the plunge and bought the book. After the first chapter, I knew I deprived myself from some of the best writing advice in print. In fact, I'd have to say that this is the best fiction writing advice I've read in a long time. And this book has 1965 publishing date! I've been in the dark a long time concerning this book.

The author, Dwight Swain, knows his stuff and covers plot, characters, dialogue, setting, scenes and much more. But he doesn't skim over the topics. This writer makes you think and doesn't ask you to do exercises to prove to yourself that you're a writer. After the first read through this book I simply went back to chapter one and have started a second reading.
The material is dense and deserves much re-reading.

Bottom line? Buy this one if you're a fiction writer. It's not one of those read it once and you're done with it books. Rather it's the kind of book you may find yourself reading again and again to completely grasp all the good down-to-earth writerly advice. This one belongs on every fiction writer's shelf despite the cover and the title.

2003-10-03T12:03:00.000-07:00

I'm Reading...

East of Eden (Oprah's Book Club) One of my favorite writers is John Steinbeck but I've never read East of Eden until now. I stayed away from this book because I vaguely knew the plot was about a prostitute and her sons. However, the book is much more than that. In fact, Steinbeck wrote the book as sort of a family history living in the Salinas, California area.

After reading this book I'm ready to declare that this is my favorite Steinbeck novel despite some of the occasional profanity. This book, above many other books I've read, describes the classic struggle of good and evil that goes on in men's hearts and minds. I found Steinbeck's observation of human nature quite incredible. Here's an example:

And once a boy (Cal) has suffered rejection, he will find rejection even where it does not exist---or, worse, will draw it forth from people simply by expecting it. In Cal the process had been so and so slow that he felt no strangeness. He had built a wall of self-suffiency around himself, strong enough to defend himself against the world.

There are many other descriptions by Steinbeck in this book of the human struggle with the impulses of good and evil. The characters in this volume are rich and layered with deep emotions. And the ending of this novel is compatible with any Christian view.

I can highly recommend reading East of Eden (Oprah's Book Club) if you can tolerate a few occasions of profanity. This is one book I plan on reading and rereading for a study in developing characters. My only regret? I've finally read a book Oprah recommends.

Aloha, Glenn

2003-10-01T06:21:00.000-07:00

I'm reading...

The book of Romans!

God is so amazing! I've started a new Bible reading experience and today something just spoke to me so I thought I'd jot it down here.

In the family of Christ, there are some people who believe that God has abandoned his people, Israel. But how could he have done so? His own son was born to Israel, and God promised he would always love them, though they are a stubborn and stiff-necked people.

So I'm reading in Romans today and this passage resonated in me: Romans 11:17-24

Basically, this is telling the reader that Israel is the Lord's cultivated olive tree and the Gentiles are like a wild olive tree. Some branches of the cultivated tree were cut off and some from the wild tree were grafted in.

But Paul warns the grafted-in branches not to think of themselves as being better than the rest of the tree. It is the ROOT that supports the BRANCH, not the other way around. By grace, the Gardener grafted in the branches, not because the branches deserved grafting.

Be afraid, Paul says to the arrogant branch. For if God would cut off branches of this tree that were a natural part of it, he can cut off branches he grafted in, as well.

Finally, Paul shows God's love in reminding the cut-off branches that they will be grafted in again if they do not persist in their unbelief.

I just thought this was cool. God's neverending love for a stubborn people is encouraging because I, too, am stubborn and I know he loves me anyway.

Praise the Lord for his faithfulness!

~~Sandi~~

2003-09-24T21:37:00.000-07:00

WTI Editorial from the Archives

Here's a past WTI editorial for the fall season dated Oct. 25, 2002.

WHAT HARVEST?
By Glenn White

Fall is here! It’s harvest time! Unless you’re a writer like most of us. Harvest? What harvest? You can’t even think about the harvest. You’re busy plowing through line after line, page after page, and chapter after chapter. Sunday comes, you go to church, and the sermon is about sowing, reaping, and the harvest. The message is encouraging as you sit in your quiet padded perch. Then you sing the doxology or a rousing worship song and go home.

As soon as you hit the door, the kids are hungry, the house is a mess, and you want to write. Harvest? You bet! You really have a harvest…a bumper crop of screaming kids and household chores before you can even think about writing. You flop down on the couch at 11pm. You’re exhausted and haven’t written a single word.

Yeah, the writer’s life is wonderful. Or so you thought. You find out that sowing, reaping, and harvesting are not the norm for most writers. You realize the writer’s life is a plowing life. So you write, rewrite, edit, revise and plow through page after page. Just when you think you’re done you notice the lumps and clods in your story. So, you plow some more. You take a deep breath, look again, and notice rocks and weeds. So, you plow through your story when you’re not plowing through piles of dirty clothes.

Then you struggle with unrealistic ideas about the writer’s life. Sometimes, you think publishers will grab your hard work, sow it to the world, and there will be a great harvest. You know it’s a wonderful goal but you also know writing is more about putting your hand to the plow every day. So you plow, you don’t look back and suddenly realize you really can leave the harvest to God. That's when you know you know that you're a fit writer for the kingdom of God.

2003-09-12T16:47:00.000-07:00

This Week's WTI Editorial

Just thought I'd post this week's WTI editorial from our weekly newsletter.

SHOW ‘EM THE TRUTH
by Glenn White

I’ve always been amazed by dumb things people say in the Bible. A good example is Pilate when he asked Jesus, “What is truth?” Every time I read Pilate’s pseudo-philosophical query I want to scream and tell him, “C’mon, didn’t someone tell you that Jesus said he was the truth. Truth stands right before your eyes.”

I guess I’m somewhat too harsh on Pilate since I too frequently miss the truth (Jesus) standing in front of my face. I call those times as my brain having an out-of-the-body experience. And I think all of us have those moments where the obvious seems obscure.

Many non-church people today are honestly seeking truth. But they believe truth is a subjective reality or cold hard facts found in a philosophical theory, religious teaching or legal system. However, after Jesus came on the scene then truth became a real person and not just another law, good idea or nice way of looking at life.

It’s important for every Christian writer to know that truth is found in the person of Jesus. It’s important to know because every writer should always tell truth. After all, even fiction is simply another way of telling people the truth through story. It makes no difference if you write fiction or non-fiction, you can show ‘em the truth by showing them Jesus.

How can you show people the truth? When you write let Jesus come into your writing. Write about the character of Jesus using a character in your story. Or look for the character of Jesus in your non-fiction article or book and write about what you find. Caution: show don’t tell. I think non-church people are tired of being told about Jesus without seeing him. It’s a challenge but I believe writers can show people Jesus without naming names. Also I believe that with a little practice you can become a real truth shower. And when people know the truth there are amazing results.

Finally, always remember that you can never separate the truth of Jesus from the love of Jesus. Because when you show ‘em the truth with the love of Jesus…you will write to inspire!

Aloha, Glenn

2003-09-08T18:38:00.000-07:00

Electronic Reference Desk

I don't know about YOU, but I am frequently researching. Daily, as a matter of fact. I just found this 'reference desk' in my local paper and thought I'd share it with you.

I recommend bookmarking everything you run into, and organizing them into folders, if your browser allows it. The folders might be labeled by type of information, or by the title of the project for which it is required. I recommend keeping everything for a while until you've ascertained its full use. Then, you can delete it.

Note: IF a site was particularly helpful, keep the site and give them a mention in your work.

~~Sandi~~

2003-08-29T17:49:00.000-07:00

The Passion

Here's a link to the film trailer of Mel Gibson's new movie, The Passion. Brace yourself, this film depicting the crucifixion Jesus is graphic and intense.

Aloha, Glenn

2003-08-22T22:48:00.000-07:00

I'm reading...

Tons of virus warnings caused by the Sobig.f virus. Not my kind of reading but a hazard of our technology age.
Have a wonder-filled day and keep smiling.

Aloha, Glenn

2003-08-12T12:12:00.000-07:00

I'm reading...

Heretics by G.K. Chesterton, also the author of the Father Brown mystery series. My favorite mystery novels are written by British authors like Chesterton, Agatha Christie and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. There is a certain suspense element in their books that I admire. But Chesterton was more than a mystery novelist, he was also a fascinating Christian thinker. Here are a few quotes to ponder from Chesterton that I picked up today:

"The men who have been really bold artists, the realistic artists, the uncompromising artists, are the men who have turned out, after all, to be writing 'with a purpose.'"

"It is ludicrous to suppose that the more skeptical we are the more good we see in everything. It is clear that the more we are certain what good is, the more we shall see good in everything."

"A man cannot be wise enough to be a great artist without being wise enough to be a philosopher. A man cannot have the energy to produce good art without having the energy to wish to pass beyond it. A small artist is content with art; a great artist is content with nothing except everything."

Have a thoughtful day.

Aloha, Glenn

2003-08-04T07:53:00.000-07:00

Thank you, Lord!

Now, I say that with all sincerity. I do. Today, Cyclone started back to school. I promised to pray and I asked for prayer during the summer, because I was afraid I'd over-stress and go ballistic or something while both boys were underfoot.

God is faithful and I didn't go ballistic. I rarely lost my temper, and I actually had a great summer with my boys. :-) I'm so thankful.

And to those who were privy to my ups and downs this summer, thank you, too! Your prayers were so appreciated!!

The temperatures may still be in the triple digits, but summer is officially over for my family. We survived again. God is awesome.

2003-08-01T17:57:00.000-07:00

Free Online Writing Class

You can enroll in a free online writing class I'm teaching called Write from the Bible by clicking on the underlined link.

I can promise you when you finish the class and the assignments that you will write like never before. The basic premise of the class is that the world's greatest literary masterpiece, the Bible, also is a valuable resource for writers. Try the class and see what you think.

Have a great Aloha Friday!
Glenn

2003-07-25T07:21:00.000-07:00

Metron Press

If you haven't seen these people, go to their website at www.metronpress.com. Quality, scripture-based graphic novels that will appeal to teens and adults. In full color, no less!

The Lord deserves top-of-the-line representation, and I am always enthusiastic about people and organizations that give it to him!

2003-07-24T10:24:00.000-07:00

Dr. Bill Bright the Writer

Last weekend, Dr. Bill Bright, 81 years old and founder of Campus Crusade for Christ passed away. Bill Bright was an amazing guy and what I consider a successful Christian writer. He wrote a booklet in 1956 titled "The Four Spiritual Laws" which contained only 77 words. Since then this booklet has been printed in 200 languages and distributed to over 2.5 billion people. This makes it the most widely disseminated religious booklet in the history of publishing. Not bad for someone not normally considered a writer.

Aloha, Glenn

2003-07-15T18:18:00.000-07:00

I'm reading...

Christianity for Modern Pagans by Peter Kreeft. Okay, now I'm out of the closet. I'm really a pseudo-intellectual and love reading heavy philosophical stuff. This book is an edited, outlined, and explained commentary on Blaise Pascal's Pensees. And yes it is a Christian book written by a great Christian thinker and writer commenting on the work of a brilliant Christian French philosopher. Are you yawning yet?

Anyway, Peter Kreeft has written quite a few good books about Christianity and modern philosophical thought. This book is one of his finest works in my opinion. Here's a sampling with Pascal's thoughts in bold and Kreeft's comments in italics.

There are only two kinds of men: the righteous who think they are sinners and the sinners who think they are righteous.

The only choice, then, is between being sinners who know they are sinners and repent; or sinners who don't. Saints are not the opposite of sinners; saints are sorry sinners, saved sinners.

I don't know about you but I think this is good stuff, really good stuff. I'll admit it's not easy reading but it does stretch my brain to think about my faith in new ways. I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to communicate their faith to college students or the intellectual elite.

Aloha, Glenn

2003-07-15T00:10:00.000-07:00

Help Wanted Ad

My wife, Sheila, brought my attention to a Help Wanted ad in last Sunday's Honolulu Advertiser:

"FLORAL DELIVERY---Drug/alcohol/cell phone dependent need not apply...."

Aloha, Glenn

2003-07-10T19:07:00.000-07:00

WTI New Search Engine!

From our home page you can search the archives of WTI with our new seach engine from Google. Whether it's a specific topic, writer, or key word you're looking for you'll find it with our new search feature. Try it, you may like it.

Aloha, Glenn

2003-07-07T08:19:00.000-07:00

The mind of God.

I don't know much about the Mind of God, other than what I read in Scripture. But, it seems to me that there are a lot of things not specifically covered that intrigue me as a writer.

I read this morning about the brave Iranian twins who are undergoing surgery to become separate individuals. Anytime twins are born conjoined, I feel for them and for their families. The decision to separate them can be difficult, and often the life of one of the children is at stake...and the parents are more often than not the ones who are burdened with that decision.

But with Ladan and Laleh Bijani , the decision rests with the sisters themselves. They have chosen, as 29-year-old women, to take the risk and opt for surgery so that they might choose independent lives. One account of this surgery is here: http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/0707IranTwins07-ON.html

As a Christian, I wonder. What does God intend with such a circumstance? How can we decide if one person or the other might die in such a situation? How can we choose? Do we let every set of conjoined twins stay that way, and figure that the Lord will make a way? Or do we opt for surgery, even if it risks the life of one or both children?

As a writer, I wonder how to communicate this dilemma. Not to make light the heart-wrenching dilemma that those with this decision must truly face, but merely to explore it.

How to decide? What if one twin does not survive the surgery? What, then, will the other think and feel?

I've rambled on enough. I just wanted to float this.

Comments always welcome...lol

mailto:sandilayne@sandilayne.com

2003-07-04T06:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Fourth of July, everyone!

Take a moment to pray for the men and women who are still 'over there,' preserving freedom for ourselves and others!

Take another moment to thank God for the free nations of the world, and – if you're American – for the freedom we enjoy here to worship as we wish.

God bless you and yours this lovely day!

2003-06-30T05:55:00.000-07:00

Vacation Bible School is over!

Greetings! Last week was a busy one out here, as it was in many, many places, I'm sure. VBS can be that way. :-)

As music director, I was involved in approximately 2.5 hours of aerobics every evening, teaching all the kids that came how to sing the songs that went along with the VBS program. It was a BLAST, let me tell you.

But the best part of the whole week was Friday, when I found out that we had 225 children who had attended (a figure I hadn't known, because I frankly didn't have time to count heads each night) and that out of that number, 34 of them had made first-time decisions for Christ!!

It's awesome to know that a harvest like that was reaped in the course of a week. We pray and we pray for the hearts of the kids to be prepared...and then they take a stand and God is honored.

Awesome.

2003-06-26T15:57:00.000-07:00

A Writer's Inspiration

My biggest fan and greatest encourager is Sheila, my wife. For example, this morning she put on my desk (for non-writers this is commonly known as a kitchen table) her Mary Engelbreit daily calendar with the page for today. It read:

Inspiration is the act of drawing up a chair to the writing desk.
Anonymous

I'm convinced more and more that writing is all about discipline and inspiration. So I apply my bottom to the chair and let inspiration rise to the top.

Aloha, Glenn

2003-06-18T23:25:00.000-07:00

I'm reading...

I'm re-reading How to Write a Great Story: A Fiction Writer's Handbook. This book is on my once-a-year reading list. It's a clear concise 88 page writing guide filled with good advice. I enjoy this little book because I can give it a quick read and glean valuable tips.

Here's a sample quote: "Great stories have great characters who solve problems through great action."

Okay, so this is not a profound advice for any writer. But direct simplicity is the beauty of this small tome. I think it's a worthy read for any fiction writer as a delightful refresher for good fiction writing.

Aloha, Glenn

2003-06-10T10:48:00.000-07:00

The Writer and Artist's Prayer

Yesterday afternoon I received another polite encouraging rejection letter. Occasionally, I use a highly scientific and theological approach to Bible reading which I call the "Flop and Read" method. When I hit the wall, like receiving another rejection letter, I take my Bible flop it open and ask God to speak to my heart. Amazingly, sometimes the "Flop and Read" method really works. And it worked yesterday when I discovered what I call "The Writer and Artist's Prayer" in the book of Psalms. The prayer goes like this:

May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us---yes establish the work of our hands.
Ps. 90:17 (NIV)

There are times when every writer, artist, musician, or any other creative person faces rejection and discouragement because of their work. That comes with the territory, so to speak. In those times, however, we can ask for God's favor and establish or confirm the work of our hands. My prayer is that we'll experience God's favor as God establishes the work of our hands. Keep creating, keep believing, and keep praying.

Aloha, Glenn

2003-06-10T06:42:00.000-07:00

I'm reading...

Mr. Darcy's Daughters : A Novel by Elizabeth Aston.

This is a great book for those of you who enjoyed Pride and Prejudice as much as I do. Of course, if you know me, then you know that PnP is possibly my favorite work of fiction of all time. I have several editions by different publishers and in different formats all over my house, not to mention the movies!

Anyway, this book takes a look at the children of such interesting folks as Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth Darcy. It's a fun and fast read and I consumed it in a matter of a few hours.

A lesson, though, to be learned. These wonderful parents both left on a diplomatic mission, thus taking themselves from the book. As a fan, I was bummed. I kept hoping to see them eventually. Note to self: when writing a sequel, be sure to include the original characters at some point.

Another lesson has to do with family. As great as these parents are, they left their five daughters in the care of friends and family In Town for a London Season. The girls got into all sorts of trouble, because their parents weren't with them, providing the familiar guidance and boundaries they were accustomed to.

Of course...the book wouldn't have been written if they had!, but still, a lesson to parental units everywhere.

Great book. Highly recommended. Okay, so it isn't Christian lit, but I don't confine myself to that genre...

2003-06-09T21:05:00.000-07:00

I'm Reading...

McSweeney's Mammoth Treasury of Thrilling Tales edited by Michael Chabon.

I purchased this volume of short stories written by notable authors like: Stephen King, Michael Crichton, Elmore Leonard, Aimee Bender, and others. Of course, I expected the usual gratuitous sex, violence, and profanity associated with contemporary writing but not as nearly as much as I thought. Also, I expected tight well-written short stories from accomplished authors but again not as nearly much as I thought.

In the Amazon.com reader's reviews a couple of readers gave this volume two stars while a couple of others gave it five stars. The five star folks must be friends. Because it's more like a two-star rating despite the name brand recognition of the contributing authors.

The one redeeming factor in my book purchase is that it supports a writing program for San Francisco Bay Area students from the ages of 8-18. Which also may mean that the authors probably were not paid and may not have delivered their best stuff. Anyway, this was not my best book buy for the year.

Aloha, Glenn

2003-06-05T18:07:00.000-07:00

Perspective

I'm struggling with an issue of perspective, Reader.

I've got this novel I'm working on...okay, I have a few, but the historical is the one bugging me at present...that has three main points of view for narrative voice.

I really enjoy the challenge and variety in such an approach. In most romances that I write, I limit myself to two perspectives. Occasionally, I pull in a third, but that's tricky in a contemporary romance. It goes against "the norm" and that's not always accepted by publishers. I do it anyway, because it's fun.

Yep, I'm a rebel.

Anyway, so I've got three perspectives going in the historical book and I sometimes have to ask myself how best to approach a particular scene: Through A's eyes, B's, or C's? What is most effective?

Only one of these people, C, is a Christian, and it is only with him that I feel that I can express MY perspective, you know? lol

Well. I won't solve this problem by writing here, so I'll take myself back to Norway and say Eenie Meenie, Mynie, Moe...

2003-06-02T20:35:00.000-07:00

I'm Reading...

A Writer's Time: Making the Time to Write by Kenneth Atchity

This is not an easy read but it is an informative read. The author discusses how the creative process works and how time management is crucial to successful writing.

Here's a quote from the book: "Writing is a craft. A craft not only can be learned, it must be learned. Only the inclination to write---and the talent---come naturally; all the rest is a result of training, the trustiest from of which is self-imposed discipline on a routine basis."

If you enjoy books that require digging into then this book may be just for you. By the way, a friend of mine tells leaders, "If you're without discipline, you're without power." I think the same principle may be applied to writers. I know when I am most disciplined I am most productive.

Aloha, Glenn

2003-05-29T08:29:00.000-07:00

Too hot for scrambled eggs!

I adore living in the desert, ladies and gentlemen. I do. It's stunningly gorgeous in early spring, when the rains have coaxed the flowers out of the earth, the temperatures are still under 100, and the birds are courting everywhere, in terrific voice.

But now, it's summer. Yesterday, it was 109 on the eastern edge of the cow pasture, and Scooter and I had to come inside before 10 a.m., because it was just too hot for Li'l Bud to play outside.

Yet, I'm thankful. Thankful for the Dry Heat. Thankful for the ability to have only one actual wardrove for an entire year. Thankful that we're all healthy and that our home has air conditioning.

I took Cyclone to school today, and Scooter and I stood under the Thorniest Acacia Tree in the Known World to find a birds' nest. We have baby birds living in this tree, now, so this is a matter of some import. It is a joy to me to show Scooter the world God has given us. He doesn't care if it's hot. Air conditioning is not an issue for him. All he knows is that he is loved and is comfortable and that Mama takes him on walks to learn about birds and grass and God.

Sometimes, I wish that everything could be boiled down to that. Once upon a time, it was, the Bible says. Adam and Eve had a place where all they had to do was take care of the birds, the trees, and one another, in obedience to God.

Today, alas, life is far more complicated. I am thankful that my sons aren't altogether aware of just how complicated.

It is enough that it's too hot for scrambled eggs in our corner of the world. I guess I should adjust our menu 'til October...

Enjoy your world and the wonders around you, and may the Lord bless your day!

2003-05-28T13:43:00.000-07:00

Downtime!

For most of today, WTI was offline because of a small fire (no one was hurt with minimal property damage) where our server is located. Technology is wonderful but only when it works. It's in time like these that I reflect how technologically dependent I have become. And it's in time like these that I am drawn to trusting God even more.

Which brings me to a thought that we just may see a future revival caused by a technological melt down. Go for it...take that idea and write a great sci-fi story maybe even titled, Downtime! I won't mind, just remember to send me a copy when it's published.

Aloha, Glenn

2003-05-26T13:57:00.000-07:00

I'm Reading...

Chicken Soup from the Soul of Hawaii: Stories of Aloha to Create Paradise Wherever You Are
If you plan on coming to Hawaii, this is a good introduction to local ways and culture. However, this is a good beach read about Hawaii even if you just lay on the couch and pretend it's the warm sand at Waikiki. There's even a story in this collection by the legendary Don Ho...and yes, he still entertains 5 nights a week in Waikiki.

Aloha, Glenn

2003-05-19T16:15:00.000-07:00

I'm Reading...

"Immediate Fiction" by Jerry Cleaver
This book helps you understand the key elements of fiction and apply them immediately. Don't confuse "Immediate" in the title with writing fiction quickly. It's not that at all. Rather, it's a writing course with tons of illustrations and practical application that gets you started writing quickly, it's not about completing a 300 page novel in two days or less. It's one of the better books out there about writing fiction, or writing anything for that matter.

Aloha, Glenn

2003-05-13T08:34:00.000-07:00

Feast or famine

I survived the Dreaded Block.

I used to be able to overcome Writers Block in a fairly short time. Hours or a day or two, maybe. But this last bout lasted six weeks.

It was a very trying time for me. Spiritually confusing, too. Was God not backing my efforts, I wondered. Was something wrong with my story? Was I off track? Had I done something wrong??

Being one of those people who always figures "it's my fault," these were natural questions for me. I prayed with greater intensity, sought out the scriptures more frequently, and reviewed all my motives and concluded that...

I was tired. But also, that I needed that time to reconnect and renew. I am still not sure if it was just that my brain was fried or if the Lord was really trying to nudge me in a better direction, but I feel that the time was not ill-spent.

Thanks be to God for his lovingkindness and faithfulness! I couldn't do it without him. I wouldn't be writing without his initiative.

And I finished an entire chapter in just a couple of days! I guess the Dreaded Block has dissolved and I am, once again, running the race.

Woohoo! :-)

2003-05-05T09:13:00.000-07:00

Asteroid named for Mister Rogers

Spacey, yes, but I also think it's pretty cool.

Imagine the impact this man had, through the virtues of integrity, safety, pursuit of excellence, and the gift of creative communication to a select audience.

It makes me think, you know? Not the asteroid, no, but the knowledge that one man made such a difference and became a cultural icon through doing what he thought was the best thing.

I don't think I am aspiring to icon status, but I do hope that I will mature as a writer who can touch people as well as Mr. Rogers, within the sphere I have been given.

Even if it's just for Cyclone and Scooter...I'll feel as if I have done a good job.

2003-05-02T10:38:00.000-07:00

I'm reading...

Yesterday, I started reading a new book, You Can Market Your Book, by Carmen Leal. It's one of those books every writer should have on the shelf. It's packed with marketing information and great ideas for promoting your book. If you're a writer who doesn't understand marketing then this book shows you what it takes to sell your book. I'll post a book review soon on WTI. But I must say if you're writing a book then you need this book, now!
Aloha, Glenn

2003-04-21T08:43:00.000-07:00

The opportunities never end!

The morning after Easter is a quiet one, for me. I had a HUGE day yesterday. It was awesome, and I enjoy thoroughly the opportunities God gives me for ministry.

Two performances of the Easter cantata sandwiched my Junior High Sunday School class. I think that all three services were fruitful and reflected the honor and love of God. What more can I ask for in the context of one morning? :-)

I was blessed, Reader. My own self. Deeply blessed by the joyful service of singing of God's immeasurable love for us. Blessed by sharing from the Gospel of Mark for my class. Blessed by my own guys, who let me just collapse when I got home!

Yet, the year isn't over, and I am only taking a breather before starting on the next wonderful project that I've been called to do. Isn't it great that Christ doesn't limit our service for him? If we are willing...he is able to draw more from us than we might have thought of on our own!

So...next up is the Mother-Daughter banquet and then Vacation Bible School! It's exciting and I'm praying that the Lord keeps me alert to his will as I seek to entertain his people in the most edifying manner possible.

And there are still the books to write! It's so exciting!

Now...I just need to pray that my energy level holds... lol

Hope you are having a terrific day! Even though Easter is technically past, we can live the resurrection live every day of the year!

~~Sandi~~

2003-04-08T10:21:00.000-07:00

Dictionary and Thesaurus Toolbar
Here's another free download:http://dictionary.reference.com/tools/ It's a dictionary and thesaurus toolbar you can load on to your browser. It's a handy utility that puts the right word at your fingertips.

Aloha, Glenn

2003-04-07T20:12:00.000-07:00

Free Memo Board Tool
I've rediscovered a free online tool at http://www.mycorkboard.com. You can make electronic sticky notes on your computer, to-do lists, and all sorts of random notes. Many times, I'm on the computer and think of an idea. What do I normally do? I reach for a scratch pad and write it down. But with this utility I make a note to myself right on the computer and then get back to work. Oh, by the way, being a sixties kind-of-guy I can even put a Lava lamp on my corkboard and pretend I'm still cool.

Aloha, Glenn

2003-04-01T05:53:00.000-08:00

I don't like reading biographies.

I make this a statement because I did something radically different, over the last week or so. I read a biography!

I read JOHN ADAMS, by Pulitzer Prize winning author, David McCullough.

I have heard, online and elsewhere, that there is a big belief about America's Founding Fathers. The opinions have run rife with the notion that these men were not Christians, and that America was NOT founded on Christian principles.

I can only say, after reading this biography – which was based largely upon John Adams' diaries and correspondence – that John Adams was most assuredly a man who put his faith in the Living God. Not only did he say so, but his integrity and morality, and steadfastness of purpose, displayed excellent fruit from his relationship with Christ.

No, I don't like biographies. I still don't. But. Reading this one has been a blessing to my heart and made me feel renewed hope in my nation, since a man like John Adams had such a large role in forming it.

Is America a Christian country still? I leave that to my reader to decide. But I can say with certainty that Christianity had a lot to do with the foundation of our nation. And that means a great deal to me personally.

God bless America!

2003-03-27T17:34:00.000-08:00

Megachurches

This is an interesting article.

I hadn't heard the term MegaChurch in quite a while...not since I'd served on a church staff myself, back in California.

I was not then nor have I ever been part of a megachurch, but I have studied them and find that they are, by and large, effective, dynamic, and soul-winning. This is pretty awesome.

Myself, I belong to a "large" church, but it's not what I would term "large," I guess. I know most of the people in the choir, most of the young people (I teach junior high Sunday School, so that's no surprise) and I'm known by many...if only because I'm so...er...outspoken. lol

We have had many baptisms at my church, including many for children who have made a conscious decision for Christ. And, when we all face our Lord in heaven, I don't know that the numbers will really matter to him.

What will matter is whether we've shared him with others. Whether we've planted seeds. Whether we've been sincere in our service to him and our brother.

So, megachurch or tiny chapel...as long as the size of the building doesn't define the size of the spirit, then it works for me.

So long as it works for HIM! :-)

God bless America. Remember to pray for our men and women in harm's way. And their families.

2003-03-25T06:49:00.000-08:00

Okay, so what's my problem?

I've got this terrific book, here. It's all printed out. Query letter printed. Even the SYNOPSIS, bane of my existence, is printed, as are the text notes for the editor.

So why is it still sitting – neatly stacked – on my bookshelf? Why isn't it in the mail?

I'm the last one in the world afraid of rejection. Okay, maybe not the LAST one, but I'm right down (up?) there. So is it just procrastination? Or have I decided to lose faith in this book?

I believe that the Lord is in the book. I do. He has a message of reconciliation there. Yes. It should meet the needs of the publisher, too. And if it doesn't, no skin off my nose, right?

So why am I having this delay??? What's up with me?

Sigh.

Well, I decided to give myself a list of goals for the week. And if I'm on target, I will reward myself. lol Sounds rather juvenile, maybe, but it might work! If I get the manuscript off by Wednesday, I get to watch the first DVD disk of Pride and Prejudice...one of my all-time favorite movies.

Of course...I'll have to work that in around my guys...

2003-03-24T05:13:00.000-08:00

Monday Morning Musings: From This Writer's Desk

I can't believe how much something as simple as tooth pain can throw a wrench into a writer's life. Since my last post, 03/11/03, I've been in and out of the dentist's chair trying to get this problem fixed . . . all the while missing several days of work. With deadlines looming and clients wondering where the heck I am, this isn't a good thing. I went from corresponding with individuals on a daily basis to not writing a thing for a week. Why? All because of a tooth ache. Turns out I need all my wisdom teeth pulled, which will turn out to be more missed work.

So how am I making up for this missed time?

First, by putting my faith in the Lord: I believe everything happens for a reason. Perhaps this is a forced vacation. Whatever it is, I'm placing it in the Lord's hands in an effort to show me the way in which I should go.

Second, lighten my load. Because I have so much on my plate, I have to pick and choose what needs to be put off and what needs to be completed. With that in mind, letters must be sent out explaining what's going on. Remember, if you're working for a non-paying market (like WTI, for example), the editors deserve notification just as much as paying markets because they have to make up for that missing content.

Third, stay on the ball. Procrastination won't get me anywhere, particularly when facing this type of reality. If I stay on the ball both in terms of my health and my career, this will go a lot smoother! Procrastination is what got me in this mess in the first place!

So, what's next? Prayer and more calls to the dentist! OUCH!

2003-03-20T07:04:00.000-08:00

Mothers of Marines stand by each other

I want to recommend this article to everyone who knows someone who is waiting here, at home. No big profound remarks today, people. Things are profound enough on the news, just now.

But I did want to salute the men and women who are away today. And salute their families who are here at home.

Waiting.

God bless them. God bless America.

2003-03-17T05:57:00.000-08:00

"I am the bread of life," Jesus said.

You know, that's pretty awesome. Being the bread of life.

Now, stay with me here for a minute. I had a revelation of sorts yesterday. I've been on the Atkins diet. Just in the very beginning phase, called the Induction phase. This is the initial two-week period in which one adjusts the body to eating far fewer carbohydrates than one had been eating before. I am doing this on medical advice, trust me.

Okay. So for this initial two-week period, I've been on extremely limited carbohydrates. My favorite type of bread, for example, has more carbohydrates in one slice than I am allowed in an entire day! So...I hadn't eaten bread in a week.

This is an extremely long time to go without bread, for me.

Yesterday, though, I made myself some Low Carb muffins. Special recipe. As I took my first bite of the banana-nutty muffin, I had my inspiration.

BREAD. Simple stuff 'til you're without it for a while. BREAD. Basic, life-giving. BREAD. My Lord called himself the bread of life.

Wow. He is, you know. And there are folks out there who've been living a breadless existence. There are substitutes, sure. But nothing is the same as BREAD.

I'm not knocking the low-carb life. It's already helping my sundry concerns and this is a good thing. But I am making sure to include this special recipe bread in my daily diet. I need it.

But how do I share the Bread of Life with those out there who have no bread? Their lives lack that essential substance, that life-giving food.

I can only pray that, in my writing, I can share about the Bread of Life. I can tell you, Reader, that I appreciate what Christ said so much more this week than I did the week before.

He's the Bread of Life. Wow. That is profound. And I'm profoundly grateful I can partake of life with him for eternity.

~~SLF~~

2003-03-15T07:24:00.000-08:00

[3/12/2003 10:55:06 AM | Glenn White]
My primary daily writing exercise is reading the Bible and writing my thoughts and reflections in a journal. This is commonly known in many circles as daily devotions. This morning my reading included Prov. 12:25.

Anxiety in a man's heart weighs it down, but a good word makes it glad. (NASB)

Almost everyone across our nation holds their breath while waiting for the potential war against Iraq. Unemployment is rising, the economy is unstable, and security is uncertain. A subtle, and often ignored, anxiety fills the hearts and minds of many people.

This morning, I began taking my role as a writer more serious than ever. I realized that many people need a "good word" that lifts hearts. So I made a list of topics that can provide a good word for heavy hearts...

I was just writing my column for our teen newsletter & did the same... The funny thing was, I sat there wondering who it would offend. As if that's any of my business...

I can be stalled so easily. Even overwork can overwhelm and freeze me...

So many personal issues in my life right now. Watching so many of my students ship off overseas and leave their wives and babies behind to take the brunt of the homefront...

And yet, my biggest struggle is fighting the demons of my childhood as my mother struggles with illness and addiction.

And I struggle with mercy and forgiveness...

For I cannot be forgiven, healed, or help those I love - until I am healed in this raw and bloody area...

I was told that it didn't matter what the other person did, how heinous. It was my job to get well. Not because abuse doesn't matter. But because WE do... And there is no other door to walk through other than a protective (of ourselves) mercy (for others...)

This is tricky business. So I write.

Heavy stuff. Don't let it scare you. Just venting so I can go on with my "normal" day. After all, when we allow the past to trap us, all of the many that we are blessed to love today - suffer.

For me, that will not happen. Not this day.

2003-03-13T12:50:00.000-08:00

Write To Inspire!

Every so often, I get stalled when I write.

Don't look so shocked. It happens.

Now, I've communicated with writers who claim they NEVER get stalled. NEVER fall victim to writer's block, NEVER have any doubt how any particular work – be it an article, short story, or novel – is going to go.

I'm not one of those people.

When I do get stalled, though, sometimes I doubt. Is what I'm working on truly what the Lord would have me do? Is this a "sign" that I'm on the wrong path, as sincerely as I am trying?

Once, I know beyond doubt that the Lord himself was in every chapter I wrote of a certain book. I had prayed for a topic for the book, and I got one. Like...right there. It was awesome. Forgiveness. I was excited. Then, I prayed and thought and found a great scenario for this idea. I wrote the entire novel in 30 days.

God was there! It was a flurry of excitement, insomnia, and just awe. Wow.

I've shared this novel with some Christian women and most of them agree that it's a great book. The toughest parts are communicative of God's grace and forgiveness and how we should forgive our fellow man.

So why can't I sell it? Why did it have to be so controversial in spots? I don't know. I only know that it was given to me that way and that's that.

But today...I'm struggling with a chapter. Will the book be communicative? Yes. Will it deal with a struggle in the life of Christian people? Yes. Do I believe it will minister to my readers? Of course, or I wouldn't be doing it.

So why can't I write more smoothly? Is the Lord here in this book too?

I sigh. I sigh again. And I keep plugging away, one word at a time. Maybe this is exactly what I'm supposed to do. And to learn to trust in times of a dry imagination.

Or maybe I should be looking at other story-starts in my file?

:-)

~~SLF~~

2003-03-13T11:51:00.000-08:00

As a writer, sometimes I feel like I fail, despite all my noble efforts to write and persuade that the Good News is good news. This morning, in my daily devotions, I read Acts 28.

Some were being persuaded by the things spoken, but others would not believe.

Acts 28:24 (NASB)

Paul, from his rented condo in Rome, tried convincing some Jewish leaders about Jesus. Some believed and some didn't. The lesson? You win some, you lose some.

Now, that's a hard lesson for me. I want everyone to believe the truth about Jesus through my articles, stories, and whatever I write. You see, I believe good writing is persuasive writing.

But I must come to grips with the fact that I could be the greatest writer in Western literature and some people would refuse to believe. Of course, when I think about it, some people don't believe The Greatest Story Ever Told. That encourages me.

I'm encouraged that some people don't believe The Greatest Book Ever Written. I'm encouraged because that means I can write my best and some people will refuse to believe. It's not that they don't get it, it's that they don't want to get it. These people are not unbelievers, they are disbelievers. And that is sad but true.

What's a writer to do? Paul realized that some people just won't get it but he kept persuading with all openness, unhindered (Acts 28:31b). Paul openly and freely persuaded anyone willing to listen. I think that's the kind of writers God looks for---writers who write persuasively, openly, and unhindered to anyone willing to read.

2003-03-12T10:55:00.000-08:00

My primary daily writing exercise is reading the Bible and writing my thoughts and reflections in a journal. This is commonly known in many circles as daily devotions. This morning my reading included Prov. 12:25.

Anxiety in a man's heart weighs it down, but a good word makes it glad. (NASB)

Almost everyone across our nation holds their breath while waiting for the potential war against Iraq. Unemployment is rising, the economy is unstable, and security is uncertain. A subtle, and often ignored, anxiety fills the hearts and minds of many people.

This morning, I began taking my role as a writer more serious than ever. I realized that many people need a "good word" that lifts hearts. So I made a list of topics that can provide a good word for heavy hearts.

God has a future and a hope for everyone.
God loves people.
Every person is valuable to God.
God is good...all the time.
Every person has a gift.
God hears and answers prayer.

This list is a nice template for all my articles, stories, and books. Oh, I may not write specifically about each topic but these topics provide underlying themes for everything I write.

A friend of mine says, "Keep the Good News, good news." That's good advice because good news lifts heavy hearts in troubled times.

2003-03-12T06:06:00.000-08:00

wti writersWow!

We had a *real meeting* of the Dynamic Christian Writers last night. It's exciting, for me, to be involved with other Christians who are wanting to please the Lord with their work.

What is really cool is that we are all writing something different...no clones. :-) R. is wanting to start a book she believes is completely inspired and we agree. B. has a fabulous family history that she wishes to chronicle in a novelization. How exciting! V. is published in an anthology and is seeking publication in another one with simple domestic blessings...how cool! C. is being VERY brave and journaling...wow. I don't think I could do that.

Me? For the DCW, I'm working on a romance...of course... lol When I look at what they're doing, sometimes, I wonder about me and my romances... lol But, I know that the Lord has given me light stories to tell...that's my gift, sometimes, when I accept it as it is given to me.

The future is fast approaching and I am excited to be meeting it in the company of such wonderful folks!
~~SLF~~

2003-03-11T08:55:00.000-08:00

Tuesday Morning Musings: From This Writer's Desk

Note: Typically, readers can expect to see Monday Morning Musings. I'm starting a day off because I didn't know about this blog before today.

I've been having a heck of a week already and it's only Tuesday! Staying organized has always been a huge priority, as it should be with any business. However, human nature does tend to take over and cause things to get out of hand before you know what's happening. This has been the case for me this week. What have I done to solve this problem before it nips me in the bud? Here's some examples of what I've done this morning to clear the clutter and organize myself:

1: I made a chronological list of all my weekly, bi-weekly, monthly and quarterly deadlines.

2: I got out my handy-dandy calendar and organizer and wrote in each deadline. This is typically a common practice as I pick up new assignments and clients, but you'd be amazed how quickly such a simple task can be forgotten.

3: I created folders for every item on the list. This is another thing I typically do when I pick up new assignments and clients, but again, this has slipped out of control. The piles of "I'll sift through those later" papers were ever growing on my desk.

4: You guessed it, I filed the folders! No more piles to sift through -- everything is where it belongs!

Something so simple has already made what started out to be a bad week look better. I find when I'm not organized, it shows in my daily activities and in my writing. I've heard so many times that if you follow the clutter, you'll find a creative person (or something like that), but I personally can't get things done if I don't have a system in place. This week is a prime example of that!

-o- Until next week -- happy writing! -o-

2003-03-11T08:28:00.000-08:00

Writing as a Christian but not writing Christian literature.

This is a dilemma I'm facing. Well...not a dilemma, exactly. More like a circumstance that I am laboring under.

"No mass conversions!" I hear in my mind, echoes from the Roundtable. I laughed, then; I chuckle now. No, I don't plan on having a big revival in my historical fiction novel. But that doesn't mean that Christians aren't going to be trying to share the Good News! :-)

Am I limited to writing Christian fic when I'm writing for the Lord? I don't think so. The historical novel has more freedom, actually, to be a bit more descriptive since I'm not thinking "CBA" when I write. lol I have a lot of respect for the Christian Booksellers Association, don't get me wrong, but a violent, gory battle scene might not go over well with them. Yet, an adequate description of a Viking raid should have such a depiction...at least once...to be effectively communicative.

So do I make apologies for my characters? Do they all have to 'see the light' by tale's end? I don't think so... but I do want them all to hear about Christ. Even if, in the book, they scorn the "Man-God" of one of the protagonists.

~~SLF~~

2003-03-10T22:05:00.000-08:00

You go girl! Hooray for Sandi!

It is a scary thing just to write. The more I think about it, writing is like believing God.

Let's face it, believing in God can be scary especially if you're a writer. We don't hear much about the scary side of faith but most of us know it's true. Like when you believe God wants you to write a story. You begin your story full of faith but when you write your faith level unexpectedly drops. By chapter three, you're wondering if you're a writer. In chapter four, your faith plunges to new depths and you wonder if you really heard God. Chapter five...wow...the plot comes together nicely with an idea you know wasn't your own...your faith rises.

And so it goes on the roller coaster ride of faith and writing. Scary? You bet! However, when the book or article is finished and your ride is over, you feel like a kid. And like a kid, you can hardly wait to ride again and feel your faith rise like never before.

2003-03-10T17:20:00.000-08:00

I've never done this before.

Writing just to write, you know? Just to let words flow without...gasp...a plot! I always have a plot. Or a character. Or a story. What does it mean to just...write?

Glenn said no boundaries. Doesn't he know that's dangerous? In Psalm 119, the Lord speaks of boundaries, I LIKE boundaries. They make me feel safe.

Perhaps that's why I always did well in school on papers and assignments. Perhaps that's why I did well on a Masters paper with minimal prep time. The placing of boundaries is, to me, very important.

So, what do I write...here where I am to write freely? I have no idea!!

But! I do know a couple of things. I know in whom I believe, and whom I wish to glorify when all is said and done. And really...that's gotta be right up there with the most important stuff, right?

Gee...I hope he thinks so... :-)

~~SLF~~

2003-03-10T12:54:00.000-08:00

Aloha!

This is the first entry of a new web log (blogger) for WriteToInspire.com. We hope you will find something here for your heart and your writing. After all, good writing comes from the heart and not the head. The more I write the more I discover that my head is good for rewriting and editing but the best first drafts always come from my heart.

What does this mean? For me it means I must write and not think. When I stop and think, like I did before I wrote this sentence, then my heart runs and hides. My heart always seems to play hide-and-go-seek with my head. My heart is compassionate and sensitive while my head is cold and calculating.

Today, when you write, try writing from your heart. Just sit down and write and let your heart bleed ink for awhile. Don't bother with grammar, punctuation, spelling and all the writing rules just empty your heart out on paper for a few minutes. Don't worry, your head either knows the rules or can learn the rules. And your head will help you when you rewrite and edit. Today, just write from heart and cry, laugh, play, or whatever your heart wants.

The trouble with most writers is that they do not trust their hearts. It's odd but after some writers give their hearts to Jesus they seem to trust their hearts less and less and their heads more and more. Trust God and your heart then write your heart out.

Go ahead and let your heart lead the way. You may be surprised at what God can do with a heart willing to risk.

Have a wonder-filled day,
Glenn

Glenn White, Editor
www.WriteToInspire.com