For the past several weeks, I have been immersed in the world of Emma M. Lion through her unselected journals, a delightful series written by Beth Brower. The audiobooks have been my companions as I have sorted and packed parts of my home in preparation for our upcoming move, drove said boxes – packed nicely stacked precariously in the back of a U-Haul – across the country, and unloaded them into our new Missouri home.
I have laughed at Emma’s thoughtfully recorded antics, felt the weight of her sorrow, marveled at her resilience, wished I could meet her in person (we are already friends!), and pondered about how a well-written journal can make everyday life a work of art.
And then, I considered my own life.
A couple of months ago, I decided to re-engage in the work of sharing my faith online after more than a year of half-hearted attempts. But then a series of events, far outside of my control, led me into a state of great upheaval that could potentially last for most of the next year.
While navigating so much uncertainty and preparing for a new chapter of life that promises to be light-years outside of my comfort zone, the mental energy needed to step into the fray of sharing the gospel on social media feels elusive.
Given my current reality, I have wondered and prayed about how to make use of this time in the muddy middle of a challenging situation. I don’t know that I have it in me right now to navigate the growing social media opposition that comes with creating consistent, relevant, faith-based content as a Latter-day Saint woman. But nor do I want to sit back and do nothing.
The other day, I heard these words come out of my mouth in prayer: “I just want to write like Emma M. Lion.”
I have been thinking about that brilliant idea ever since.
I am no Emma Lion. I am not nearly as witty, do not get myself into half as many ridiculous situations, and may not have as many interesting things to report each day as she does.
But I am, first and foremost, a writer. My love of writing led me to this world of online journaling (aka blogging) nearly 12 years ago – a love that has been overshadowed in recent years by “content creation,” which is not at all the same thing.
At this point in my life, I want to write for the joy of writing, not for the approval of the algorithm gods. (I am far too old and tired to chase their acceptance.) And the journey I am currently taking, with all its confusion, uncertainty, and well-timed miracles, deserves a permanent record in the book of my life.
Yes, I could keep my musings to myself, hoping that someone in my posterity will one day discover my dusty journals and glory in the wisdom and grit of one ancient Lynnette I. Sheppard. But I am unconvinced that particular thing will ever happen.
So, I invite you to follow along as I process the world in real time. May you find something of value as you do.
And, in the style of Emma M. Lion, I dedicate this record to all who have the presumption to read it.
**Read the rest of this series here
