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| Dawn Kinzer |
Some writers may seek fame, a bigger bank account, or a way
to leave something of themselves behind. But I believe within the heart of most
is the desire to make a difference …
As far back as I can
remember, I’ve felt that burning need within, but I struggled for a long time
trying to find the right path.
I was ten years old when I saw the movie The Singing Nun with Debbie Reynolds. I
decided to go to Africa and be just like Sister Ann, and I constantly sang “Dominique” everywhere I
went. Then, disappointed, I discovered that because I wasn’t Catholic, becoming
a sister and wearing those cool black and white garments was not in my future.
As a high school freshman, I thought the answer was becoming
a medical missionary. Only, the sight of needles made me pass out. Yeah, that
doesn’t work so well in the medical field. (I’ve
since overcome that problem—thank goodness!)
Impacted by Rev. David Wilkerson’s The Cross and the Switchblade, I read everything I could get my
hands on written by the pastor. That had to be it! I could help save the world
by working in the inner city with Teen Challenge. My plans after high school
included going to missionary training school and then to New York City. My
parents insisted that I get a college degree before making any career decisions
that could cost my life at the end of a knife. That didn’t sit well with me.
After all, God would protect me! Right? But I
honored their wishes.
After college, my plans changed, and I married and had
children. But that flame within continued to burn. I explored various jobs and
ministries—even creating some of my own. Some were successful while others were
complete failures. I cringe even now thinking about some of the blunders I made
in desperation to find my way.
Then a series of events brought me back to writing. I’d
always enjoyed it, but despite straight As in college English classes, I never
believed I was “good enough.” This time, I couldn’t let go—God kept providing
just enough opportunities and encouragement—like crumbs leading me down a
path—to keep me going. He kept fanning that flame within until it blazed and I
accepted my calling. I might not be good enough on my own, but the truth is … I’m not alone.
Yes … I believe within the heart of most writers is the
desire to make a difference …
That difference could be to make a stand on injustices,
spark creativity, teach, inspire, move people to action, or entertain a weary
soul.
As Christian writers, we also strive to bring hope, comfort,
bring forth spiritual truths, and stir a hunger in readers for a closer relationship
to God. We may use story to help people find compassion and understanding for
others.
I know writers can make a difference in lives because I,
myself, have been challenged and touched by the written word. You may have at one
time or another received affirmation from a reader—whether they have read your
book, your blog article, devotion, or a note you sent.
With
all this going for us, my dear, dear friends, stand your ground. And don’t hold
back. Throw yourselves into the work of the Master, confident that nothing you
do for him is a waste of time or effort.
(1 Corinthians 15:58 The Message)
Even if you haven’t experienced affirmation that you can
point to, please know this. Whether someone reads your work now or sometime in
the future—you’re making a difference.
Do you
ever wonder if all your hard work is in vain?
When
did you experience a time when you felt your writing made a difference in
someone’s life?
Dawn Kinzer is an
author and freelance editor. Her writing has been published in the Christian Fiction Online Magazine, the Backyard Friends magazine, and The One Year Life Verse Devotional, and
featured on the radio ministry, The
Heartbeat of the Home.
A mother with two married daughters and one grown
stepdaughter, she lives with her husband in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. A
grandmother, she never expected that one little boy could bring such joy into
her life. Some of her favorite things include dark chocolate, popcorn, strong
coffee, cinnamon, the mountains, family time, and Masterpiece Theater.
To learn more and connect with Dawn online, check out the
following sites:
