When I do author talks or school visits, one of the questions I’m often asked is what I like best about being a writer. The question came up again the other day. Until now, my answer has usually been twofold. I’m most thankful, I generally say, that I can write in jeans and slippers (there’s something incredibly freeing about not having to pluck, mousse, iron, and endure heels before plonking down at the desk). I also admit that because I’m a writer I feel entitled to spy on people at the grocery store. I do. Character is truly revealed in the generally mindless acquisition of food (is my subject buying Kraft dinner or quinoa? Wearing sweats or silk? Do they stack and toss? Smile or glare? Rush or linger? Treat the cashier with kindness or indifference?)
With American Thanksgiving now upon us, I’ve decided to ponder the question of thankfulness more deeply.
I am most thankful to be a writer because:
I can ask questions of anyone, anywhere, and at any time, all under the guise of research (Although I do refrain at weddings, funerals and during bikini waxings).
I have a valid excuse for an extra twenty pounds since writing requires sitting for many long hours (given that I’ve just set up a treadmill desk, this sentence is subject to revision).
I get to read. A lot. And this I can do on a treadmill or an elliptical. At a stop light even. Until the guy behind me honks.
I can write anywhere and at any time. Though I don’t recommend mixing laptops and hot tubs. Especially after midnight. Trust me on this.
I set my own hours which means I can get a root canal in the middle of the day or take off to watch a movie do heavy, intense research. And I don’t have to ask my boss.
I am always learning. Fun, neat facts like ‘intelligent people have more zinc and copper in their hair’ and ‘women blink twice as many times as men do.’ Without these random bits of trivia my life would be seriously incomplete.
I’ve met many wonderful people through my writing, and I’ve made lifelong friends too.
I get to experience the thrill of the unknown twice a year when the royalty checks land in the mailbox. Sometimes I even get to shop afterwards.
I am allowed to daydream. Staring into space for long periods of time is mandatory. And my family understands that even when I look like I’m paying attention, sometimes I’m not.
I play every single day. And that, really, is the thing I am most thankful for. I play with words, with worlds, with people and emotions. In my slippers, on my laptop, at the gym or in my office. I play. Only everybody else calls it work.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I especially like your phrase -playing with words. Yes, Yes.
And also asking folks limitless questions. Truly it is very fine to be a writer.
Thanks for dropping by, Jodie. Happy Thanksgiving!
Loved this post – it’s so important to find the positive and things-to-be-thankful-for in everything….On the days where the writing doesn’t flow, this will remind me to be thankful for finding my passion and having the means and freedom to do and write what I want – thank you so much for this!
Lisa McManus Lange