I find that I have slight reservations about tears being a requirement. Perhaps for most people it is, but I have a hard time accepting absolutes.
Here's how I see it: If you're moved to tears, great! If you don't have tears, but you know what you've written resonates, makes sense, and feels right, operate on that purpose for now. Perhaps in time you'll realize that this is your purpose, and perhaps you'll find that it was a step along the way of finding a deeper purpose. If it gives you direction, in the end, does it really matter which?
A thought or two about the writing process:
When you're writing about the things that come closer to touching your heart, ask a question (in print) like...
Is there more than this?
Is it deeper than this?
Is there something that would excite me more?
Is there something that would be even more powerful?
Is it more simple than this?
Then pause a moment, allow a deep breath, and write what comes to mind. Continue until your answer is, "This is it!" If you're going to be moved to tears, you probably will be at this stage.  |