StephanieAre there people actually reading this blog? Does anyone but me care when I post something? Does it even matter?
These are some of the questions running through my mind in recent weeks. If there are regular visitors coming to read this blog (and there are a few according to my stats), you realize I struggle to post regularly. I have good intentions. I just don’t seem to be able to write a review and a musing each week. (Might have something to do with having to read a book before writing the review. 
)
This leads me back to the question of continuing. When I started this blog, I was certain it was the Lord leading me. I had a clear idea of what I wanted to do, write reviews that would discuss the presence or absence of Christian-compatible themes, actions and characters in stories I read, particularly in the fantasy and science fiction genre. I love that genre, but some of the stories written are anti-God, anti-faith and anti-anything good. Some stories no Christian should read, but many are wonderful glimpses into human interaction and struggle that could enrich any mind. Others are good stories, but some underlying theme or assumption needs to be challenged. How does a person who wants to fill his or her mind with good things, things that strengthen and support a faith-filled life choose those books that will enhance that life?
That’s why I wanted to present my thoughts on this blog. To share with others my thoughts about those books I read. There are voices out there crying that fantasy is unChristian and anti-Christian. That just isn’t true. Not always. Some stories shine with Christian principles. Others sparkle with wit and humor, lightening the heart with wholesome fun. I want to share my thoughts and impressions, giving enough information so readers can choose wisely. I think such a service is needed.
But is anyone listening? Or am I just talking to thin air?
It may appear so and I wonder if I should quit, but if my Lord led me to start this blog, surely He will make certain I know when to stop. Even without listening ears, there are positives that keep me posting, albeit infrequently.
By continuing to maintain this blog, I force myself to write. Even though I slip and forget to write or post for a week or two or even more, the fact that something needs to be put up on this blog spurs me to continue to write something. Anything. And my mind is also constantly thinking of books I can review. Some are books I’ve read; others I want to read.
If I stopped writing for this blog, I could spend the mental and physical time creating stories and writing them or studying aspects of the craft of writing. Trouble is, would I? I have a procrastinating personality. Without the tiny prod from the obligation to write this blog and these reviews, I might slip into less productivity. In fact, having to regularly prodece something here probably helps fuel my fiction writing.
See my dilemma? Do I keep writing, hoping there are some people listening? Yes! I keep writing. And I’ll keep striving to be consistent in my posts. I hope my words inspire you!
Autumn Jordon
JMO. Yes. You said writing the post feeds your muse. That part of you needs nuturing and if this blog does it for you, then yes continue.
A rose doesn’t stop growing because only a few stop now and then to enjoy it’s beauty. It continues to grow each and every day because it has too. It’s God’s plan.
I’m only one person, but you have touched me–twice now. Smile and sleep well. AJ
Sonya
I blog at http://www.musicofthewords.blogspot.com/ and I’m listening ; -) If you believe that the Lord would have you continue with your blog, then market it. How do you market a blog? You leave comments on other blogs with your URL in the signature line. You post about it on Twitter, you join like minded forums and promote your blog.
I know exactly what you mean about science fiction. I grew up reading it and loved it. When I became a Christian, I struggled so much with what genre to read and what genre to write. What was ‘right’ and what was ‘wrong’. There was a great post on Write Thinking some time back on R.K. Mortenson’s ‘Landon Snow and the Island of Arcanum.
If you can’t find what was said about it, let me know and I’ll email it to you.
I believe that God gave us the gift of writing and that we are not to bury the talent. God also wants us to enjoy this life He gave us. Including the books we read.
I once had a writer tell me to look at all the topics God talks about in the Bible. Lots of eyebrow raising stuff in there! Francine Rivers wrote a book based on the character Hosea’s wife and it shocked some Christians. How dare she write about a heroine acting like a prostitute? There was a scene in there that made me cringe, but only because it challenged what I had been taught was ‘acceptable’ for Christians to read/write.
Yet, it was in the Bible. The book focused on God’s redemptive love no matter who the person is or what their prior acts are.
I think if God led you start the blog, if He wants you to leave it, He’ll let you know. Pretty blog, by the way ; - )
Sonya
Shonna
People are shy. Keep writing
Stephanie
Thank you, Autumn, Sonya and Shonna! Good points, all! So I’ll keep “blooming” here and try to comment on more blogs and lists (I already do some, but in a pretty haphazard way) and remember why I started this. That should keep me writing!