on writing and humility
If writing has taught me anything, it is humility.
These closing days of April mark the last full week of classes here at Princeton Seminary. While I am often thinking more about what is on the horizon than what is behind (I know, ironic for someone studying history), I have spent the week reflecting on these past three years in Princeton.
Seeing folks subscribe to this small newsletter over the past week reminded me of my first attempts at writing for a public audience years ago. I spent hours creating a spreadsheet of emails and submission links, and many hours more crafting a pitch for each platform.
Most didn’t reply.
Those who did only offered a blunt “No, thank you.”
Eventually, I learned to ask for help. I asked writers how to pitch better. I asked editors how to stand out in an inbox full of pitches and submissions. I asked authors far ahead of me in this work how they got to where they are now.
Everyone replied.
If writing about our common life has taught me anything, it is humility.
First, I am humbled by my editors who, with kindness and grace, correct my non-sensical rambling sentences and my egregious grammatical errors. Even when I believe I’ve submitted the perfect draft, edits come back in abundance.
Second, I am humbled by critical readers. While I do not pay attention to Facebook and Twitter threads about my writing, there are always some who send an email or DM. While not always the kindest, some of these folks engage thoughtfully with my work and offer (at times, constructive) feedback.
Finally, I am humbled by the way God has brought my words to folks across the world and, through the Spirit, used them for Christ’s glory.
I never thought that when I began this journey three years ago that writing would become such a central part of my life. But even in the struggle (and there have been many), it has been a joy to, with God’s help, put words to the experiences of our life together.
Thanks to all who’ve subscribed.
The work continues.
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Reading:
Bruce McCormack, “Revelation and History in Transfoundationalist Perspective: Karl Barth's Theological Epistemology in Conversation with a Schleiermacherian Tradition” in The Journal of Religion, Jan., 1998, Vol. 78, No. 1
Jeffrey Stout, “Radical interpretation and pragmatism: Davidson, Rorty, and Brandom on truth” in Radical Interpretation in Religion, edited by Nancy K. Frankenberry (Cambridge University Press, 2002).
Watching:
The Flight Attendant - Season 2 (HBO Max)
Better Call Saul - Season 6 (AMC)
Ride the Eagle (Hulu)
Listening:
Lush (Album) - Snail Mail
five seconds flat (album) - Lizzy McAlpine
Live at Electric Lady (album) - Bleachers