At the Hinges

I've been scared about my long-distance future. Fiscally, socially, pedagogically things appear somewhat bleak. I sought this week for some reassurance by drawing on the powers of heaven for an appropriate spiritual gift, as long as clairvoyance wasn't a serious option. The answer I got was this: let the future sort itself out. What are you going to do this week?

My week was completely empty. Nobody needed me at work, and I had no plans or social engagements. It reminded me of Winters on the mission. So I did last week what I did then. I opened my calendar and said, "Lord, this week is yours. I don't need it," and Monday afternoon God said, "Go to the Temple." "Wednesday," I replied, and He was satisfied. I spent Tuesday outlining my novel up to the final paragraphs.

Wednesday came and I was tempted to put off my promise until Thursday, but the words from General Conference have stuck by me, and I prayed for the strength to go and do what I'd said I would. I received it. When I got back, the Sisters called and asked me to go on a split. I'm always up for that. I adore Sister Shill! Plus, it was God's week. The appointment fell through, but we did some quality contacting.

Thursday Morning my mother interrupted my writing to say, "how'd you like to drive to Vegas?" That's a stupid question. I hate Vegas, but I didn't know the reason she wanted me to go yet. My little sister was in tears because her friend had given her the wrong date for graduation, and she would miss it if I didn't drive her. I showered, loaded my writing stuff into the car, and we headed off. I didn't get any writing done, but my sister was able to support her friend.

Friday I spent writing, and at three in the morning on Saturday I wrote the last words in my first completed novel. I can't say it's any good, but I can say that the original draft is finished. I spent Saturday at the library researching agents and publishers, and becoming informed about the current market. Then I prepared my Sunday School lesson.

It's Sunday afternoon, and although today has been my worst in a long time, my week has been abnormally productive. It absolutely blossomed. Same thing happened in Germany, as I recall.

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