Words On A Wall

The obvious can sometimes escape us. What is written on the wall of life can often-times be missed or ignored. Strange how we can go through life as if everything is fine only to have the truth land on us like a grand piano. At this moment we are left with the thought "why didn't I see that sooner" or "if it was a snake it would have bitten me." I like the last one and I've heard a few hundred times in my life. I will admit that most of the time these things strike us when things are going wrong or something bad has happened but this can also happen during good times when things are going well for us.

Case in point, I love words. This should be no surprise to anyone that knows me; however, for more years then I care to admit I did not like words. I was not interested in words. Music changed that. It all started with the sound but then moved to the lyrics. I'm not sure anything in the world of writing can top a good song with lyrics that speak to you. Words and sounds you instantly connect with are gratifying. This love for music and lyrics has evolved to a love of writing. Writing what? Actually, writing anything but I seem to connect with poetry. The crazy thing is I can't simply write a poem. They come to me on occasions (which are often special ones) and I write.

I did this very thing last night. My third wedding anniversary is today and I was sweating it last night because I did not have a card or anything to go with my wife's anniversary present (which was pearl earrings and she loved them by the way.) Out of no where the words struck me and within minutes the poem was complete. It actually surprised me how well it flowed and how crisp the words were. Is the writing on the wall? Am I supposed to be a poet instead of a novelist?

I want to be a novelist but also enjoy poetry. Can I do both? I don't know yet. I'm still writing novels but until I'm published I don't think I can completely answer this question. Do I enjoy writing novels as much as poetry? Absolutely, just in a different way.

It is always good to explore and find out who you are but it is equally important to not ignore what you discover or miss what is being taught. This is true in both life and writing. We may put off what is written on the wall for a while but if ignored to long we could get in trouble.

What is written on your wall? There is plenty written on mine and I hope published author of books are four that will show up soon.