Tell Me a Story

     I simply cannot stop writing. If an idea springs up, I just have to grab it and write it down. To me, it does not really matter if the story isn't finished right then, as long as there is enough of it to remind me of my idea later.

     Do you ever feel this way? I bet some, if not most, of you do. And that is excellent, because I am counting on you to write... right now. Even if you have never experienced the irresistible urge to set your thoughts on paper, you can still help me out.

     You see, I got one of those ideas today. And so now I am writing a short story. I have written the first paragraph and I want YOU to tell me what you would write next. I already know what is going to happen, but because the plot is going to be a little different than "most stories" (I hope), I want to see what you guys come up with. Consider yourself my test lab guinea pig. (Brahahaha!)

     Here is the opening paragraph:

     They came at night. Like gliding shadows, they slipped through the cracks in my windows and door and entered my bedroom. They moved soundlessly, and I had no idea they were coming for me. There was no time to prepare for their attack.

      So, if you care to, comment and tell me what you would write next. What will the main character do as he or she is being assailed by these strange enemies?  I promise not to steal your ideas (as long as your ideas don't unintentionally coincide with my preconceived ones).   ;)

     Once I am done writing the short story, I will post it here... if I ever finish it. There is no promise it will not be forgotten for a year or so, but I will try to finish.

     Come on; tell me your version of the story!

     Post Tenebras Lux!
-ST

P. S. If you are having an imagination cramp (wonder if Barney the dinosaur ever had those?) then you might try writing what you would do if you were in the character's situation. 
    

The End of America?

     

     Like many American's, I am bewildered and troubled by yesterday's Health Care vote. It is very easy to feel heavy-hearted and angry when I think about the direction this country is headed. Yes, my imagination tells a fearful story of America plunging to its doom in the same way that the ancient Roman Empire did.

     But there is hope.

     Not in Washington. I have very little hope that our nation will ever be the same as it was in the time of our Founding Fathers. I am not saying it is impossible; just that I place little confidence in our present leaders.

     My hope is found in only one place, or rather, one Person. He is the only perfect One to trust.

     I truthfully believe that every form of government will eventually fail unless its people and its leaders know God as Supreme. No amount of laws will stop sinful people from doing sinful things; only Jesus can do that. No amount of politicians will be able to make good decisions all the time if their worldviews are flawed; only Jesus can give us new eyes that see clearly. No amount of money can heal every illness; only Jesus brings peace to the hurting. Jesus is the only Solid Rock.

     America may one day be destroyed. That is the stark reality. But God is the King of kings. No matter where we are, no matter what happens, He is with us.

     As Believers in Christ we are "convinced that neither death nor life... neither the present nor the future, nor any powers... nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Rom. 8:38-39) There is no fear in God's infinite love for us.

     This is not to say that we should sit back and watch our country crumble. We have been given the gift of freedom. Let us use it while we still can! But use it for the sake of the future generations, and not out of fear.

     Come wind, waves, or fire... come terrorists, national debt, or Obamacare... God is firmly seated on His throne, and nothing can make Him walk away.

     Post Tenebras Lux!
-ST

How Goes the Search?

     I cannot believe it has been over a month since my last update!

     So, how goes my search for an agent? Slowly. This past week has seen more progress than the previous four, I think.

     Let's see, I told you about the book, Christian Writers' Market Guide. This month I've been reading through the agents section. As I went through the lists, I looked specifically for agents who are seeking new writers (like me) and books in the sci-fi or fantasy genres (like my book). I narrowed down about nine agents. Yesterday, I emailed four authors about one of the agents. One of the authors replied already, and it looks promising. One agent down, eight more to research. *sigh*

     I'm afraid my book has taken the backseat lately. Necessarily, though. I've only been able to pursue agents on the weekends, for the most part.

     I bet most writers do not have as much trouble finding an agent. But I am picky. I do not want to end up with someone less than helpful. I am seeking someone who will be able to help me understand the steps of writing and publishing, who will listen to my ideas, and give me wise council. And I would love it if he or she is a Believer.

     But I am beginning to wonder if this person exists. Oh, well. I am praying God will lead me to the right one.

     On a lighter note, I have been writing on this blog for half a year, now. I am amazed and excited by all the "traffic" it has seen! As of today, there are 32 followers! I never would have thought so many people would take an interest in my blog. So, thank you, reader, for being a part of my journey. Your encouragement is such a blessing!

     And thank You, God, for guiding me and blessing me on my way.

     Post Tenebras Lux!
-ST

Book Review- Hunter Brown and the Secret of the Shadow

     Hunter Brown is your average High School prankster; the only thing he seems to be good at is getting into trouble. But his whole life changes when he is given a mysterious book and key. Strange dreams and visions lead him to the land of Solandria where he must find a man named Aviad.

     

     Hunter soon learns that something dark is hunting him. The Shadow wants to turn Hunter away from his mission to find Aviad, and they will stop at nothing to capture him. With the help of the Codebearers (warriors who are part of a Resistance against The Shadow), Hunter trains in the ways of the Author. But Hunter is not completely sure he trusts the Author with his life, as the Codebearers do. Will he join the Shadow? Or will he learn to have faith in the Author and Aviad?

     I loved the way this book parallels the journey to Salvation. It really made me think about what it is that Christ does for us when we accept Him as Savior. The book is packed with plenty of surprises. I would recommend it to anyone.

If you would like more information about Hunter Brown or its creators, The Miller Brothers, here is the link to the official site: http://www.codebearers.com/
  
Post Tenebras Lux!
-ST