While reading in a waiting room, I glanced up to see an older man walking towards reception and continued on reading. 

However, when he said his name, I instantly looked up again and did a double take, a smile spreading across my face.

Twenty-five years ago as a college freshman, I sat in his course, Writing 131: Exploratory Prose Writing. He was the one who taught me to love revision–even though my first reaction to his feedback was far from appreciation.

Teenage me was used to rave reviews and praise–not critique and recommendations to keep working.

So naturally, rather than gratitude, I was annoyed and angry. 

But I also cared exceedingly about my grades, so I begrudgingly applied his feedback. 

To my surprise, I realized he was right. My writing was enhanced through the process of continuing to craft it.

Over the years, I have shared this brief anecdote with my students as a memorable teaching and learning experience. He helped me to be receptive to a critical disposition of a writer–to trust the process and be willing to explore. That pivotal moment has shaped me as a writer and teacher of writing; it has helped me to see the value in communities that support on-going cultivation of writers.

Over the last two years, PraiseWriters has been an integral part of my life as a writer. The overall apostolate’s mission states, “Write These Words is a place for Catholic writers to find inspiration and information about the craft of writing and the world of publishing.”

Week after week, events through the community provide access to interviews with people representing a range of experiences within the writing and publishing community, as well as support for the business and marketing skills that are beneficial for writers. Interactions with other community members provide opportunities to read and respond to each other’s writing, as well as to share our dreams and challenges.  

Just like that moment in the classroom over two decades ago, I know the moments of learning shared among the community are shaping me. Possibilities are sparked through words and experiences shared. Insights linger as I sit down to write or draft up my goals. 

As Proverbs 27:17 conveys, “Iron is sharpened by iron; one person sharpens another.” That is the power and beauty of Praise Writers.

Questions for Reflection:

• Who have been key mentors in your life as a writer? How are you investing in your on-going development as a writer through learning and intentional community?
• To what degree are you receptive to support at different phases of the writing process? In what ways is it challenging to receive feedback? 
• Are there any perspectives or beliefs that you might need to reconsider in order to better embrace the writing process?

At the core of Amanda Villagómez’s work is a belief in the value of story–learning from the experiences of others and exploring the themes woven throughout our lives just waiting to be discovered. Through her writing and teaching, Amanda invites you to consider: What’s the story of your soul? She would love to support your process of writing and inquiry.

Note: This is the version of the Bible for the verse: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/proverbs/27