Victoria Advocate, A Different Perspective
My husband and I recently finished a 750-piece jigsaw. The centerpiece was a vintage model red truck. The background was an old messy garage full of junky antiques for sale. The “sale” boasted metal wagon wheels, a rusty fire hydrant, and a wooden yoke for oxen. Several signs hung on the rough walls, a measuring tool with a wheel, and a steel milk can. Dark rafters and a blue floor were the last pieces to go together.
Early on, there’s always a point where we both declare “this one is a challenge” and ignore it for a day or so. Then, one of us will get bored or have an evening free and wander back to it. Occasionally, I’ll claim the catbird seat, the coveted spot in front of the puzzle. Viewing the puzzle as a whole gives me an overall perspective, then I’m able to separate pieces or work from the top down. If I work on it long enough, the pieces seem to fall in place without much help.
However, every puzzle has a unique personality. My normal approach is to find the edges first, then tackle the largest (or easiest) sections. This last one defied strategy. Aside from the red truck pieces and the blue floor, the rest of it proved a mishmash. Dave and I both commented that the piecemeal method—happening gradually at different times and often in different ways—solved this one. All-over-the-place described it best.
Writing is the same way. Each project goes together a bit differently. Authors often define their writing style as pantser (writing by the seat of your pants, never knowing where the story will go next, or plotter (one who carefully plans each scene). I’m a bit of both. When I write my column, I need a starting place. I call it my God-breath. I listen, and the Lord gently whispers an idea about what to write. Today it was puzzles. As I wrote, the rest of it unfolded into what you’re currently reading—after the editing process. My first column drafts are usually too long.
However, when I write novels, I need a story skeleton before a draft ever begins. Once I have that and enough research done, I start writing. The words of the opening chapters are mere placeholders so I can continue. When the first draft is complete, if time permits, I let it rest for a while, then tackle the editing/rewriting process. I add layers, and usually rewrite the opening scenes several times. Some authors’ first drafts regularly exceed their word limit, but I’m the opposite. Mine are anywhere from ten to twenty thousand words short the first time around. Once I get to know my characters, I’m able to add depth and plot twists.
For me, it’s the word length that determines whether I underwrite or overwrite. Like a puzzle, the project defines the approach.
People are different too. Same circumstances, same environment, same everything, and folks still react in various ways. All parents know what works with one child rarely works with a sibling. Yet, while we concede this in our minds, our actions don’t always reflect it. Unfortunately, we fall into negative patterns of communication and wonder why our relationships aren’t working. Parenting, friendships, indeed, all relationships require creativity.
That said, showing love and patience is a great place to start. And just like a puzzle or a story, once you spend time building the relationship, the rest will follow. Maintaining a good connection may be challenging, but it’s always worth it.
Because God first loved us, we can love others. “He is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us.” (Ephesians 3:20, NAS)