Writing is Not My Passion

So, do I Belong Here?

During my first week of writing on Substack, I commented on someone’s essay that I had a newfound passion for writing. About halfway through my first year of writing, after spending a week on each essay, carefully word-smithing and trying to sound witty (some of those essays are still among my favorites, by the way), I realized that what I really wanted to write about was something I'm passionate about—people.

I’ve wondered if I belong in a writer's space, which Substack definitely is. Do I belong here if writing isn’t my passion? I'm not looking to be paid for what I write, although I am very thankful for my paid subscribers. I don’t desire to publish a book anytime soon. I don't have the time to improve exponentially at writing, as I am focused on what I really want to do—chaplaincy. Writing is something I enjoy. It is cathartic, and I view it as a discipline that challenges me. It’s my hobby.

What drives me to write is not a passion for writing but a love for storytelling. I find myself telling stories wherever I go. When I had my platform on Facebook, I appreciated live video because it allowed me to share my stories in real-time, enabling people to see my animated expressions. My friends will tell you I'm always eager to share a good story, and I typically do so with as much expression as possible. Even in my job, training people in suicide prevention, I weave stories throughout the training. I am a storyteller at heart, and writing is not the only way to tell a story. At the same time, Substack serves as a great medium to share stories about the people I’ve interacted with and my personal life experiences. I've also discovered that I love to write book reviews. I've found a way to write book reviews that incorporate storytelling. Some of my favorite writing involves reviewing a book I enjoyed.

Then there is the connection I share with all of you, both my readers and those who write the newsletters I read weekly. You all have welcomed me with such compassion and grace. Many of you are crafting some of the best material I’ve encountered. Wow, you are truly talented! From theology to literature to how you engage with the world and discuss politics—you are all remarkable. I'm here for you. My writing on Substack has enabled me to connect with you. I have met some of the most incredible people here and am building meaningful friendships. And just a side note, those of you who are genuinely passionate about writing—my goodness, what you create is astonishing.

So, the second half of my first Substack year was a glorious discovery: because I'm not writing as a profession, for publication, or platforming, I have the freedom to write about whatever the heck I want. That's why this is called Literary Christian Meatloaf. I write about literature, I am a Christian, and my newsletter has no strict theme—I'm kind of all over the place. However, prepare yourself because I have a lot of books to discuss in the coming weeks. My substack is a collection of different themes, all mixed together like a big, delicious meatloaf with lots of extra sauce. I’ve even toyed with changing the name to Literally Christian Meatloaf (Ha, ha!).

I belong here, even though writing is neither my passion nor my pursuit. You, dear writer, who writes for a hobby and to communicate your passion for other things, belong here too. You don’t have to want to publish a book or do grand things in the writing world. Just be you. We need you. I need you. As the great Mr. Rogers sang:

I like you as you are
Exactly and precisely
I think you turned out nicely
And I like you as you are

I like you as you are
Without a doubt or question
Or even a suggestion
Cause I like you as you are.

I like your disposition
Your facial composition
And with your kind permission
I’ll shout it to a star.

I like you as you are
I wouldn’t want to change you
Or even rearrange you
Not by far.

I like you
I-L-I-K-E-Y-O-U
I like you, yes I do
I like you, Y-O-U
I like you, like you as you are.¹

So reader, is writing your passion or your hobby? Or both?

Extra Sauce

Next week, I will review Becoming the Pastor’s Wife by

Beth Allison Barr

.

I’ve been battling discouragement for the past couple of weeks. I’m feeling discouraged about the coming weeks. I don’t like to be as busy as I will be. Also, my coming surgery is in sight, and I’m looking forward to the relief it will bring me. At the same time, it’s a month away. If you are praying folk, please pray for my spirit to be revived.

1. “I Like You as You Are” Lyrics by Josie Carey | Music by Fred Rogers