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Shannon's avatar

So glad to read your words again. In the monastic life ordered around praying the hours, it’s said that when the bells ring, it’s an invitation to begin again. The bells are ringing for whatever new rhythm awaits. 💜

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Aimee Guest's avatar

Thanks for the beautiful imagery, friend! I love it. It’s feels celebratory and that’s how I felt when I pushed the “send” button yesterday. ❤️

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Shannon Hood's avatar

I loved reading your origin story, Aimee. Thank you for sharing it, and now that I’m back from a three week trip, it’s time to get into a writing rhythm again!

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Aimee Guest's avatar

Shannon, thanks for the encouraging words. I hope you have an easier time getting back into the flow than I did!

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Lauren Muller's avatar

Boy, was this timely for me! I haven't written a post since the middle of May, and I feel that "crusty old car battery" feeling you mentioned. I can find plenty of excuses for why I've let my writing fall by the wayside once again, but the bottom line for me is I need to work on the habit of regularly sitting down to write/create, which I sometimes think is half my battle (at least it makes space for creative juices to start flowing, even if not much comes out). Really appreciate all that you shared here!

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Aimee Guest's avatar

Hi Lauren! I get it! I had to find the right balance of self-compassion (because some of the reasons for my unplanned break were the real deal) and also "now go sit in the chair and write". I hope you find your rhythm again and the juices start to flow!

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Tresta Payne's avatar

It is always hard to start again—for me it's the voices of doubt and second guessing and mockery. It's like the habit of writing removes the power of those voices in my head, but if I stop for awhile, the voices get free rein again. I love how you went back to the beginning, to remind yourself of your "why". And I'm glad you're back in the saddle ; )

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Aimee Guest's avatar

Thanks Tess. I agree completely. And thanks for your encouragement along the way!

I also think if it feels that hard to sit down and do something, it's a good idea to ask yourself if you're still meant to be doing it or if it was only meant for a certain period of time. Looking back on why I started this newsletter helped me consider: is this still my work to do? And if so, am I still doing it for the same reasons or have they shifted? In this case the answer was yes I should keep going and yes I still feel passionate about the same themes! Now it's a matter of how often...

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Annelise Roberts's avatar

This was a good boost for my spirit when I read it last night, Aimee. I've felt like I have two left feet in the writing world and everything is just silly. But you have to start somewhere. I'm glad you wrote again!

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Aimee Guest's avatar

I'm glad we get to shuffle along together. I love seeing how you weave your thoughts together. Every post we get out is a success story! Keep going, at whatever pace works with your "little breaded fish stick" by your side.

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