This reading seemed like an extension of the previous readings. Moderate your emotion, write daily, slow down a little. My new take away was the acceptance of self in writing. While Boice had written previously about this, I felt it was emphasized more in this reading.
To me, the skills in this reading are life skills. Be yourself. Listen to critics in moderation. Don't identify yourself with the negativity. Figure out who you are and show that to people. These are all ways to navigate life authentically. Boice's advice is helpful, yet hard because self acceptance is hard. We are always told how to be better- rarely how to be satisfied with our uniquenesses.
I believe that part of the key to all of this is identifying positive people to be around. This pertains to writing groups as well as peer groups. People who are positive with each other help to to grow what Boice is describing.
Stephanie, I couldn't agree more with the need to identify positive people to be around. I can see it in my own life: when I'm around positive people, it makes me feel more positive --> more confident --> more compassionate --> more safe ... the benefits are seemingly endless.
ReplyDeleteThanks for reminding me of that :)