Into the Fire

(Originally posted on 11/19/2012 as "Playing to your strengths")

Physical strength varies even within people who are the same size. Some smaller people have remarkable strength while some large people show limited physical capability. All kinds of physiques can train to gain strengths, but each individual possesses different talents which aren't always visible in physical demonstrations.

I'm only 5' 4". When I was young and working at the racetrack, I developed some decent strength for my size and weight. Handling Thoroughbreds and tugging on hay and straw bales force you to get tough. You push yourself to do what you couldn't do before you gained the experience and reps.

When writing, you have to play to your strengths as you develop ways to compensate for your natural weaknesses (if you have them). I've been told and I tend to agree that my writing strengths show up in character development and dialogue. No wonder I don't write complex plots, huh? Not to say I can't improve on my natural strengths but good to know I at least have been complimented on them.

I don't have a formula for the weight lifting exercises involved in perfecting your writing strengths, and I tend to shun the instructions that guarantee or suggest a slam dunk approach. All I can offer is keep working out. Read and write – the best exercises for improving your strengths.

Good to know this still applies in 2019, huh?

Father, thank you for all you've given me, inspired me to do, helped me every step of the way, and always rescued me when I fell. There are no words to adequately express my gratitude. None. Not in my language or any human language. Thank you is all I've got and it's never enough. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.