Welcome back! Unless it’s your first time here. In that case, have fun browsing.
As a fiction author, I need to know what matters to my readers. Then I can weave those elements into my stories. My blog is like the sign at the ice cream store that lists all the flavors: Walnut Whimsy. Vanilla Bean Valor. Epic Espresso. You get the picture.
One theme that recurs in my stories is the importance of identity. Just like fiction and friendship, identity evolves. Or maybe it’s just our perception of who we are that changes. I’m not talking about the latest personality quiz, as fun as they are. But who you are at your core is more than just your preferences and aptitudes. A huge part of identity is knowing your intrinsic worth. The truth is, you are enough. Read that again. Out loud.
My hero from Book One sees himself as being low status. And as someone who couldn’t possibly need a father. Wrong on both counts, dude. While the book forces him to draw on his natural leadership skills, he secretly grapples with intense insecurity. Hmm, remind you of anyone? I suspect we all go through seasons of wondering, even agonizing, over our own significance.
A critical factor can be how others see us, and how they do or don’t share their perception. How often do we express admiration for a friend, and they’re blown away because they had no idea? Or we assume they know how much they matter to us. Not that we need to rely on outside opinions, but we were born for community. Weren’t we? Sometimes our own perception is enhanced by someone else’s. Almost every time I have an in-depth conversation, I learn something. And I love that.
Each book in this series has a different main character. After depleting their resources for those who desperately needed them, two of my protagonists choose to pursue more personal interests. Before long, they encounter even more desperate people. As they accept the invitation to engage with the conflict, they see their own strengths with greater clarity.
What about your story, the one you’re living right now? I wish you more wisdom and strength to give a definitive yes or no, both to yourself and to others when needed. More patience with yourself. More confidence to know that you aren’t defined by anyone’s opinion, especially not your own. Truth? You matter more than you know.
Ciao for now,
Kai