Writing, Storms, and Rainbows
Written by Michele T on May 6, 2008 – 10:43 pm -
Looking around the world today, we see tragedy of all kinds.
Fires, floods, cyclones, and more. Lives and homes are being ripped apart. Hope for those futures seem bleak. Where will they live? What will they do? Why did this happen to them? We all know these are questions they are asking themselves, or that we ask ourselves as we see these sad stories flash on news channel after news channel. It seems no matter how hard we try to avoid depressing circumstances, they pop up everywhere.
Why am I talking (aka typing) about this?
One of my loyal readers, Julia, (love ya, girl!) commented on the previous post that I was a welcome light in her storm. I do believe this is the most beautiful phrase anyone has ever written about me. Thank you for inspiring this post! And, thanks for reading my blog in the wee hours of the morning when the storm’s turbulence is often at its worst. I’m honored.
Writing Storms = Storms of Life
I think we’ve all been there. Something (or several somethings) is going on in our lives that is stressful, depressing, and/or we can’t stop thinking about. Maybe you have received storm damage from a literal storm. Perhaps a special loved one is ill, passed away, was just diagnosed with cancer. Whatever the situation, it becomes hard to concentrate on writing, blogging, brainstorming for ideas. It’s easy in times like these to lose focus and have difficulty finding even a hint of the inspiration you once had an abundance of. You might even think of giving up your writing dreams, asking yourself why you ever thought you could make it as a writer in the first place.
Our lives and our writing are intertwined like roses climbing an arbor. The vibrant, green petals cling to the strong anchor in the storm. They hold onto the lattice as the wind blows furiously and the rain pelts down hard. The thirsty little rosebuds flourish into huge blooms after the roots drink up all that nourishment from the sky.
Rosebushes are beautiful in the spring when they’re green and full of new growth. In the fall and winter, it’s another story. They wither away and become grayish brown. Depressing, I know. But that isn’t the end. Those elegant roses aren’t dead. The beautiful blooms are just “sleeping” for a while.
Where Rainbows Come In
No matter how much the storm rages, or how long of a dry spell you have in your writing (or your life), it will end. The darkness will fade away. The calm will come. The sun will shine. The rainbow will stretch wide, reaching far up to the heavens. You’ll be able to breathe a sigh of relief, relax. A fresh, new confidence will emerge from a place deep inside–a place you thought had withered and died, but was only sleeping for just a little while. Your soul will soak up the nourishment it craved but couldn’t receive.
Enjoy the rainbow. Revel in the sunshine. Cherish the beauty of a new day, new opportunities, ideas, moments to share with those you love most and to remember the ones who had a precious part in molding you into the wonderful individual you’ve become. Perhaps – like my grandmother – that person is no longer physically with us. In that case, honor their memory by adding bits of their wisdom into an article. You might also consider giving one of those characters that live inside your head the personality of your loved one. You know, the character you fantasize about becoming part of the novel that is selling on book store shelves everywhere!
Keep Looking for That Pot of Gold
Remember as a child when you actually thought you could find the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow? Find your inner youth, that innocence you still possess but is lost beneath years of the world beating you down. Close your eyes and picture yourself as that kid you once was, that kid who dreamed big, could jump out of a swing and soar as high as superman. See the rainbow? It’s closer than you think…
Watch for the sunshine peeking through those dark clouds, and always, always keep writing the cyber highway!
Writing the Cyber Highway Copyright © 2007 – 2008 Freelance Writer, Michele L. Tune
Posted in Writing Wisdom | 26 Comments »
May 7th, 2008 at 2:56 am
Michele, I love this post – I feel as if it were written just for me
And I thank you so much for the comments on my post today. You make me feel encouraged and loved – and I sure needed that today.
May you see beautiful rainbows everywhere!
[Reply]
May 7th, 2008 at 3:44 am
Hi Becca!
I’m so glad this post helped you!
You’re welcome for my comment. I meant every word. It’s a blessing that I make you feel encouraged and loved! I know you need that right now.
I can’t count the times I stopped by your blog and left feeling refreshed, inspired, and thankful to you for your amazing words of wisdom. Thank you, dear friend! May you see beautiful rainbows everywhere too!
*extra hugs and smiles*
Michele
[Reply]
May 7th, 2008 at 6:22 am
Michele,
Very inspiring!
I’ve been a part of a major life storm for quite a while, and every now and then that storm interferes with my work. I can’t brainstorm or write at times, and that’s what inspired my “Writing Through the Distractions” post a while back.
This storm has been raging for a year now, and worst of all it involves my children. I can’t say much about it right now except that I’m in a battle to get them back from my ex. They’re being hurt emotionally and certainly not happy where they’re at. So, when they came to me for help, I vowed to put my faith in the justice system to keep my promise to them, and in order to do that, I have to keep on writing no matter what, because the income is needed most now.
That’s all I can say right now, but despite the hard times that continue to occur, I know that soon I’ll see that beautiful rainbow.
I’ve left it all in God’s hands, and when everything has settled, I will have some articles to write — articles that I hope will help other parents know what rights they have when it comes to their children.
Again, thanks so much for the inspiration! You’ve given me even more hope and let me know I can continue writing through the hard times until I see the rainbow.
Please pray for my children and me; God knows the situation, just pray that he’ll help me through it all.
[Reply]
May 7th, 2008 at 12:26 pm
Hi Michelle,
You just keep that little light shining! We need you! Plus we’re blessed just to have you think of us as part of your life.
An old man on a Greyhound bus told me that no matter how bad it gets–wait three days. Something will ALWAYS be different after those three short days. And usually BETTER!
My prayers are with Misti.
Just remember Michelle, I’m that ugly, scratchy little catepillar that’s always crawling up the rose bush. Some damn day I’m gonna be a butterfly.
blessings,
julia
julia ward – a BLINDING heart – a writer’s blog – http://www.ablindingheart.com
check out my latest post:
Nothing lasts, nothing is finished, and nothing is perfect.
[Reply]
May 7th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
Michele,
This is truly one of the most beautiful and inspiring posts I’ve ever read, and I mean that from the bottom of my heart! You are such a talented writer with an ability to express your thoughts with originality — and vibrant, colorful words!
You are going to be such a success, Michele! And I want you to know how much I truly admire you –for your writing abilities and for rising above the stormy clouds in your life!
Take care and have a nice day!
Lisa
[Reply]
May 7th, 2008 at 1:27 pm
Julia,
Thank you for the prayers. The more the better. And I know things will get better, but sometimes we just have to wait longer for Him to do his part.
I don’t even know why I mentioned my personal storm clouds. I suppose Michele’s post was just that inspirational for me, and I feel like I’m among a friend here since I read Michele’s blog often.
[Reply]
May 7th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
Glad you started blogging again.
When I close my eyes and dream and remember being a child, I picture myself reading tons of books, and dreaming about being a writer. Interesting how things work out, huh?
[Reply]
May 7th, 2008 at 3:10 pm
Ok, I’ve read through these comments a few times and I keep leaving and coming back. What to say? I think you all have actually left me speechless (or, in this case typeless!).
I’m SO touched, blessed, and honored by these comments, I just can’t think of anything to say! Ok, look who we’re talking about here: ME. I always have something to say.
Let’s start with Misti.
I’m thankful that you found this post inspiring, and that in the middle of your major storm, you could find a little refuge and comfort in my humble post.
I think I remember your Writing Through the Distractions post, but I’ll go check it out anyway–just to be sure.
My heart aches for you and your children, Misti. You will all be in my heart and prayers. You’re right, it’s in God’s hands. He’s in control and you know, He is THE Counselor. He’s your counsel when you walk in that courtroom–no matter who your physical, earthly lawyer is. You’re being represent by the King himself.
You are most welcome, by the way, for the inspiration and hope. You will write beautiful (and let’s pray: high-paying!) articles to help other parents know what to do in situations like you’re going through right now. I assure you, when I was in the middle of domestic violence, I never dreamed I’d bust through to victory and be able to shine my light brightly enough to encourage and inspire my readers. For quite a while I was very ill, unable to even use my hands–much less type or write. Now, I’m typing away as fast – or even faster – than I did in college!
Keep watching for that rainbow, and hold on to that promise!
*smiles, blessings, hugs, and prayers*
Michele
[Reply]
May 7th, 2008 at 3:29 pm
Ah, Julia, you’re too kind! I’ll do my best to keep my little light shining! I know I keep using this word, but I just feel so honored that you all feel this way about me!
Yes, you’re just a part of my life. I feel a kinship, an appreciation, a bonding, with each of you–like sisters even!
I like the wisdom from the old man on the Greyhound bus you mention. Usually after just a few days things do change and most times they are better. He’s right!
It’s great that you’ve added Misti and her children to your prayers. Prayer changes things!
I don’t think you’re ugly, Julia! But I understand you feeling like the caterpillar. We all feel that way sometimes. And, I really don’t think many of us have enough confidence to feel like the butterfly–especially all the time. Just watch out for those thorns!
Thanks for all your sweet words. You all, my readers, are my inspiration!
When I am the butterfly, I’ll remember that it was my precious blogging buds who helped me turn into one, pushing me high into the sky, cheering me on to spread my wings and fly!
*hugs, smiles, blessings, and prayers*
Michele
*flicker*
*flicker*
*still shining!*
[Reply]
May 7th, 2008 at 3:43 pm
Hi Lisa!
Wow! …one of the most beautiful and inspiring posts you’ve ever read?! Again, I’m honored!
I don’t know what to say other than that I write from my heart. I believe strongly that we should just open up our hearts and very souls when we sit down to write. Our readers can relate. It’s not always about pretty and happy days. Ugly things happen. I try to focus mostly on the inspiration part, but without the ugliness rearing its head in our lives – whatever that ugliness is – we wouldn’t be able to turn into that breathtakingly beautiful butterfly Julia mentioned in her comment above.
You are such a talented writer with an ability to express your thoughts with originality — and vibrant, colorful words!
You are going to be such a success, Michele! And I want you to know how much I truly admire you –for your writing abilities and for rising above the stormy clouds in your life!
Thank you for telling me this! There have been times I’ve thought of given up on writing too. Like, who am I to say I can write? But, it’s comments like these from my readers that keep me going, inspire yet another blog post, and let me know that I do have something special to say, that God did bless me with a talent–a talent that isn’t my imagination.
I love and appreciate each and every one of you!
You have a great day too, Lisa, and take care of those babies!
*smiles, blessings, hugs, and prayers*
Michele
Take care and have a nice day!
Lisa
[Reply]
May 7th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
Hi again, Misti!
I think it’s wonderful that you felt comfortable enough to mention your personal storm clouds!
I suppose Michele’s post was just that inspirational for me, and I feel like I’m among a friend here since I read Michele’s blog often.
It’s such a blessing that my post was so inspirational to you that you felt you could open your heart and share with us, your friends, to uplift you and pray for you during this turbulent time in your life. I know the waves are tossing you to and fro right now, but that rainbow is still up ahead! Hold tight!
*smiles, hugs, prayers, and blessings*
Michele
[Reply]
May 7th, 2008 at 3:52 pm
Hi Katherine!
I’m so glad I started blogging again, too! It’s a great feeling to be back.
Yes, it is interesting how things turn out. I remember when I was a little girl, I would write in my diary or make up stories in a notebook. I’d go around singing that song, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow…” fantasizing that at the end of my rainbow would be books and stories with my name on them.
The book is yet to come, but it will one day! Hopefully several.
*smiles, blessings, hugs, and best wishes!*
Michele
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May 7th, 2008 at 9:49 pm
Hi Michele,
What a beautiful, inspiring, encouraging post. And those storms, adversities, misfortunes can all be overcome, and later inspire others, through the magic keyboard of a writer like you, Michele!
A beautiful, talented, kind-hearted friend like you is a beacon of light to all writers.
Really loved this post!
Always Fondly,
Renie
PS. Tell Deborah that I love the Goats&Baby Oats, Milk And Honey soap! I’ll be back for more. My daughter wants some, too.
[Reply]
May 8th, 2008 at 2:55 am
Hi Renie!
What wonderful things you’ve said about my post! Thank you.
Everyone’s reactions have really touched my heart with their kind words, including you!
And those storms, adversities, misfortunes can all be overcome, and later inspire others, through the magic keyboard of a writer like you, Michele!
A beautiful, talented, kind-hearted friend like you is a beacon of light to all writers.
I really love the words you used in describing me as a writer and friend. Your words mean so much!
*smiles*
Michele
P.S. I told mom what you said about the soap. We love it too!
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May 8th, 2008 at 3:34 am
Michele,
Thank you so much for inviting me to read this excellent post. It is just what I needed tonight.
Yes, I am having a dry spell. Not so much in writing but in blogging because I hate to write anything negative and right now we are traveling through somewhat of a shadowy valley. This too shall pass, just as it always does and you have made me look for the rainbow and the pot of gold.
Blessings to you, dear friend.
Mary
[Reply]
May 8th, 2008 at 3:44 am
Hi Mary,
So glad you could stop by! You’re most welcome.
What a blessing for you that this post could be just what you needed, and what a blessing for me to be the vessel the encouragement flowed through!
I know what you mean about blogging through dry spells. It’s quite hard to do!
Before you know it, May will have come to an end and you’ll be experiencing a new month without those troubles you’re talking about.
Things always pass, but that still doesn’t make it any easier to go through them. Most times it’s very difficult to keep the faith and stay positive as life’s storms are beating us up. I’m so glad I could help you stop and think for a moment and as you said: look for the rainbow and the pot of gold.
*smiles, hugs, prayers, & blessings*
Michele
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May 8th, 2008 at 11:38 am
This is a great post and one that is both encouraging and inspiring, especially as I’m going through a “storm” at the moment.
I love the idea that the blooms are just sleeping.
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May 8th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
Hi Rebecca!
Thanks! I appreciate the compliments. Storms come and go, and like Renie said above, these things can be overcome and then we can use our experience and insight to inspire others–like you now.
I love the idea that the blooms are just sleeping, too. It just popped into my head and I jotted it down here. It’s true, though. The blooms are sleeping, but sometimes when we feel weak, we’re really not. Our courage just might be “sleeping”–just for a little while. It always wakes up again.
Hope things get better for you soon!
*smiles*
Michele
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May 8th, 2008 at 7:40 pm
[...] writingthecyberhighway.com Writing the Cyber Highway – Michele Tune « Writing, Storms, and Rainbows [...]
May 9th, 2008 at 3:19 am
Quite an inspiring post, Michele. I’ll have to come back and read this again, whenever I feel like I’m in the storm, looking for a rainbow.
Thanks!!
[Reply]
May 9th, 2008 at 3:40 am
Hey there, Grandy!
Thanks! I’m so glad you found my humble words inspiring and helpful.
Absolutely! Whenever you feel like you’re in the storm, looking for a rainbow come back and read this anytime!
You’re most welcome!
*smiles, hugs, blessings and prayers*
Michele
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May 16th, 2008 at 4:48 am
Michele,
What a wonderfully encouraging post! Thanks so much for sharing those uplifting thoughts! There will always be those times when each of us will need them, and thanks to you we’ll be able to call up the images you’ve painted through your words to help carry us through.
Thanks, again!
Jeanne
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May 16th, 2008 at 4:57 am
Hi Jeanne,
Thanks so much for your sweet words! I’m thrilled that you took away so much from reading my humble post. It really came from my heart.
…thanks to you we’ll be able to call up the images you’ve painted through your words to help carry us through.
Ah, that’s why I write and it makes it all the better when my readers say things like that! I would say you’ve made my day, but it’s midnight.
I’ll have a great Friday, though!
*big hugs and smiles*
Michele
[Reply]
May 16th, 2008 at 5:13 am
Michele,
Your heart came through loud and clear in this post!
Glad that in some small way I could help you start your Friday out right!
Cheers!
Jeanne
[Reply]
May 16th, 2008 at 11:33 am
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May 24th, 2009 at 3:19 am
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