It's been a while since I've visited the topic of writers and their quirks. Today, I'm here to talk about a writer's need for a challenge. Challenges are what help a writer to grow, to learn more about writing, and become a better writer in general.
No one likes to have challenges in their lives; however, stress is normal. How we handle challenges when they arise -- particularly the significant ones -- says a lot about who we are and about human psychology in general.
The first three decades of my life are best described as "difficult." Many have remarked that I am brave to have overcome so much. Three decades ago I was a very different man than I am today: 600+ lbs, community college drop-out, pessimistic, unemployed, unhappy, suicidal. Many predicted I'd be dead.
I step forward. The lights shine brightly on my face. I am one step away from darkness; the lights hanging above my head are focused too tight. I could reach up and turn the shutters, push the dial, raise the levels. But I am on stage, stepping forward.
