In the arts there are always two perspectives of “gift”. Those would be your own and then the rest of the world’s.  Have you heard the newest pint sized version of a prodigy, Jackie Evancho?  She’s only eleven and anyone who is semi-conscious would say; “amazing”, after hearing her.  She has the sound and technical chops of a seasoned Mezzo Soprano! In an interview the things she identified as her “gut reaction” to her obvious gift was that when she is singing, it makes her happy and when she hears other peoples’ reaction it makes her grateful.  When we exercise our gift of language there is our perspective of our gift and then there is others’ perspective.  In the measure of a “true talent” both are of equal import.
            When I taught junior high, I was also the co-director of the yearly musical extravaganzas.   We produced some amazing stuff especially considering that the kids were only twelve and thirteen.  It used to make me crazy when kids would show up to auditions with a tape and wanted to “sing along”.  The answer to that was always no. Unfortunately there was sometimes fallout from parents who were miffed at the no.  The ability to sing along with a tape is not really a measure of talent and often times it is a long, long way from singing ability that would wash on a “naked stage” with live accompaniment.   The focus of doing an activity that only pleases yourself does not necessarily a talent make. That’s the reality of it.
            As writers we all have tools that can be used as a measuring stick, are readily available, and free.  First you must look at your own work and have some real sense of its quality.  C’mon, in your gut you know if you stuff is well written, to the point, honest and pleasing or interesting to read.  I often re-read pieces done a year or two ago and like them just as much as the day they were written.  Next, you have your circle of friends, contacts and co-workers.  Family is helpful but they always want to encourage.  You want unbiased opinions of your work.  Do not hesitate to take a piece that you are proud of and float it past trusted people in your circle.  If you are too shy to do that consider a serious re-think about wanting to be a writer.  The bible tells us that the gift of a talent is never for personal pleasure: “No one lights a lamp to put it under a tub; they put it on a lampstand where it shines for everyone in the house.  In the same way your light must shine in the sight of men, so that, seeing your good works, they may give praise to your Father in heaven.” (Jerusalem Bible Mt. 5:15-16) Ask a colleague/friend for an honest opinion after they have had a chance to read your piece and then listen with patience and humility.  You might hear things that you don’t like.  This is not a bad thing; it’s a moment of wisdom that you can learn from.  Never be closed to hearing a comment that is not glowingly positive. The reactions that I find most helpful contain comments like; “I never knew that.”, or “I never thought about it that way.” or “I learned something.” As a Catholic writer I must add one personal habit that you might find helpful.  I never compose a piece without first surrounding it in prayer.  The assistance of the Holy Spirit makes for less re-writes!  Good writing to you.

Copyright© 2011, Kathryn M. Cunningham, all rights reserved.  Kathryn is a retired teacher who went to the Catholic Theological Union as a “retirement project”.  In addition to graduate degrees she is a trained spiritual director.  With a heart for informing the “people in the pews” she writes for online sites as well as local church publications. Check out more of her take on the journey @ www.atravelersview.org

Kathryn is a retired junior high teacher. A convert with a love for the Church she believes that its teachings have a more than viable application for today's world. She writes practical theological for the people in the pews believing that they have as much right to good catechesis as our youth and converts. Her writings appear on Catholic web sites and local Church publications. She has even been published in the diocese of Australia and most recemtly Zenit. Kathryn holds a Master's in Theology and is a certified spiritual director. Learn more about Kathryn at: www.atravelersview.org