Keep on Praying and Writing

From Barbara Baranowski, director
Dear Writers,
Life is very different now, with difficulty and uncertainty every day.  We should continue in prayer for one another, for families who have experienced loss, and those on the "front lines" of this COVID-19 Virus,  In addition, to encourage ourselves and others, let’s write through this!  Here are some writing ideas that I hope you will consider:

1.  Just as individuals have written their thoughts/experiences during war times, why not write/journal your impressions of this “Invisible War.”  I haven’t been out much, but I am taking pictures of things like “standing six foot apart” signs, hand washing signs, restaurant closed signs, etc., when I have.   We get the newspaper.  I plan to cut out some articles about it. This will document our part in such a crucial time of history.  Remember, this time in history will live on in history books, just as WWII, Civil War, etc. The last time of a pandemic like this was in the early 1900’s, according to a report I heard. How has church changed?  How has getting your groceries changed?  How are your children/grandchildren handling the changes? How has “socializing” changed for you? Of course, you can include a lighter situation, such as the toilet paper crisis.  Preserve your thoughts for the next generations in your life.
2. Sit outside and compare/contrast in writing your quiet time to the way you live life at a more hectic pace—like just a month or so ago.
   
3.  Search the Bible for Scriptures that you are helping you during this time. One of my favorites is Psalm 56:3.  Write it down and explain how it is helping you.
4. Spend time in prayer and write down how our Lord is speaking into your life.
5. Write down the blessings you are receiving, even now.
6. Write down how you are helping others through this time—neighbors, friends, family.
7. Write down your praises and prayer requests.  Some will probably be different than what you were praying a month ago.
8. Write a note to others that will lift their day and their Easter season.
   
9. List ways this Easter and spring are different from 2019.
   
10. Share ideas that will help others cope, especially with children out of school or husbands out of work.