It comforts me that we are creatures of habit.  This is an interesting statement, and the pun is quite intentional.

There are those who crave all that they do not have, whether it be adventure, knowledge or experiences.  With might in hand, they pursue these relentlessly… however it could be said that this type of drive is also a habit.  And so, as previously stated, they too are creatures of habit.

For myself, it’s writing.  Just to sit comfortably and put pen to paper.  This reflects my analogy as well, as to this day, I feel most like myself with a pen and a sheet of paper.  I know that nearly everyone has moved into this century and uses a computer to create, however I only use mine as a last measure (to prepare my work for publishers, this site, etc).

I was speaking to Roger the other day and he was musing over how it feels whenever he misses a couple days of writing.  He explained how it bothers him so not to write anything in a day.  He said he’s prepared to settle for a poem, a line, something, so long as he can let some of the words out.

I laughed, understanding exactly what he meant.

For those of us who write, we must write (preferably every day).  I believe the same holds true for anyone who creates.  For a writer though, there is a psychological aspect to this need… this addiction to words.  Sometimes it is a line or two that keeps replaying within our mind over and over again like a record whose scratch holds hostage the player’s needle.  Other days, it’s a character who will not grant us any reprieve.  They beg to be heard, to perhaps get a chance to speak for themselves. 

If you are reading this, finding it hard to understand or believe, than you are not a creative writer.  Perhaps you write non-fiction (quite well as a matter of fact), but you never argue with voices in your head.  You never play theatre games with characters that you imagined… those who will not let you sleep peacefully… those who will never leave your psyche till you put them into words and let them live (finally).

I’ve spoken to many writers over the years, and have heard the same thing time and time again.  Some have voices, others a line or two, still more who just feel this unbelievable urge.

It’s a strange addition, writing.  And certainly not one which is easily understood.  It has been my experience that it is best just to let it consume you.  There is no inherent harm, and in the end you will always feel complete and satisfied.

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