Seth Godin in a podcast and other places refers to Stephen King’s pencil. Seth says that in writing conference with Stephen King, inevitably after many questions this one arises, “Mr King, what kind of pencil do you use?”
It seems silly out of context – but I know I have been in that place over and over again, where if I just had the right equipment/circumstance/people on my team/funding/leadership I would THEN be successful. It must be a magic pencil – for Stephen King to have produced such great work.
Maybe it is. But I bet it only works for him, regardless. Do I need a magic pencil? Or a better job, secluded artist hideaway, unlimited funding? Maybe. Or maybe I also have exactly what I need to manifest the person I am supposed to be right now.
This fall my travel plans have changed considerably. I’m home every day with a kiddo trying her best to get through her senior year with a broken ankle and a lot of healing ahead. I’m not engaging in person with my community in the way that has always felt best to me in creative, open ministry and wondering. And…
- I’ve started a new job with a steep learning curve and opportunities to learn more about international Quakers, publishing, social media and outreach, and webdesign
- I’ve been invited to teach a workshop, in person only, for Quakers in my yearly meeting about communications and social media – two topics I love exploring with others
- I’m working from home, and have a gentle schedule that allows me to get myself and my kid to all our appointments
- I’ve started some new medications, which seem to be helping with a number of my chronic illnesses and work best when I have consistent rest and am home
This weekend I missed a yearly gathering among Friends in Maine. I was sad that I could not attend – but was clear it was too much driving, too much heat, and too much risk of my health. Instead, I unexpectedly still ended up in Maine in the early evening – closer to my home, with my whole family, and in a dinner gathering with friends of ours from many years, and our spouses and kids. It was informal, and loving, and a wide range of experiences and life circumstances and lots of appreciation and love. For this time, it served the purpose in filling my heart in the very ways other Maine Quaker gatherings in the past.
I have been longing for the perfect pencil. I’ve been handed a box of watercolors and a number of brushes. Do I know how to paint? Not yet. But I’m hoping that my curiosity and willingness to listen will guide me towards what I need to know. That’s the thread of ministry that has always been my own “magic pencil”.