I’m just back from a religious retreat where we were encouraged to compose our own prayers.
Reading all the inspiring and uplifting thoughts our group came up with made me think there should be a prayer for freelance writers.
Shouldn’t there be? I’ve never seen one!
Of course, it’s easier to do this sort of thing while you’re still at a relaxing camp with others in a group to help you.
Doing this on my own, I found it was hard to keep it short! There are so many aspects to the freelance writing life in which we might ask for divine help.
Here’s what I came up with:
Just for today, let me be compassionate with myself.
I forgive myself for not writing enough, or well enough, or fast enough.
I am thankful today for my unique creative gifts. Instead of dwelling on regrets about what I haven’t accomplished yet, I will focus on what I can do now to develop my craft.
Let me take at least one, small step today to put my writing out there.
When my query letters go unanswered, I will remain serene and remember that it’s often not about me or my writing.
I will listen and learn from people whose feedback I value, but trust that my most important guiding voice and source of confidence as a writer lies within.
When opportunities arise, let me evaluate them with clear eyes and have the wisdom to pass if the gig isn’t right for me. I will not let feelings of panic or desperation lead me to make bad choices, but trust that if I do my marketing, the right gigs will come to me.
Because the people who matter to me are important, I will strive to set aside device-free time today in which I am fully present for them.
I will make time to move my body, stay healthy, and take in the beauty that surrounds me. I know it will fuel more creativity.
Grant that I lie down in peace tonight, grateful for the chance I’ve had today to write, to grow, and to send my message out into the world.
What is your prayer for freelance writers? Add yours in the comments.
