Monday, April 23, 2012

A decision

Seven years ago this July, I dove into the blogging world hoping to meet a few other writers.

I did.

It's been amazing.

But this morning I woke up with the strong notion that I needed to stop blogging. Maybe forever. Maybe for a year or so. I really don't know.

What I do know is that I've lost that joy in writing and I've hinted at it several times here. I find myself wanting to get back to where I used to be where sitting at my computer and spilling out story after story filled me with excitement.

I really don't need a following yet like many published writers do. So that's not why I would blog. I used to think I had something to blog about and if I really blogged about what's been roaming through my head lately it wouldn't be pretty.

I'm at that awkward stage in life--trying to discover my purpose again.

It's eluding me.

So I won't go on and on about it here but when I do find it, I might just return and give a shout.

Thank you for all of your kind comments over the years. I intend to still read blogs as I want to stay in touch as well.  And then there's Facebook. Can't give that up.

Thanks again for sticking with me through everything. It has meant so much to me.

55 comments:

Andrea said...

I am in a similar yet different situation. Lots going on in my heart and body right now. I understand your struggle and I am thankful GOD has given you and answer. I am also thankful you are not totally disappearing. Your encouragement over the years means a lot to me and I probably don't tell you enough. For that, I am sorry!

Praying GOD renews your spirit and reveals the next step HE has for you whether it is in the writing world or doing something else.

Blessings, hugs, and prayers,
andrea

Heidi Willis said...

I have stepped way back in blogging this year, so I know where you are. I used to love writing and connecting with other writers, and now it seems like keeping up with it is one more big chore.

Letting yourself off the hook is fine. No one is holding your feet to the fire for this! There are no rules!

Allow God to drive your passions, to find where you want to be NOW. When you find it, you won't even miss all this stuff you've lost your longing for. :)

So many great, amazing things in store for you. Transitions are hard, but so worth it to get to that place your joy is waiting for you in.

Amie Borst said...

of all the blogs i've read over the years, yours has always been my favorite. i love the way it uplifted and inspired. but i respect your decision and will pray that you'll receive the direction you seek!

Joanne Sher said...

Will miss you, AND will be praying. Love you, sweetie.

Robin Lambright said...

I think blogging serves many purposes, however when it becomes a source of stress or a stumbling block then it is time to step away. I know for me there are times when God prompts me to share insights received from my study time through my blog and other times it is all I can do to get a few pictures up.

We all need to be listening intently for the direction that God has for our lives.

Praising your insight and your willingness to listen to his prompting!

See ya around FB!
R

Vie Herlocker said...

Hi Terri,

Sometimes hearing God say stop is not easy. I too (althougn not a blogger) am at a time of God reminding me to be still, or just to BE. Period. I too long to put aside working like a crazed possum and return to my own writing. It's been a long time...
Prayers for you as you listen to the Father and rest in his arms. He'll renew your joy and put you back on whatever path is next. Allow yourself this time of just being. Hugs and sparkles, Vie H.

Kathleen said...

There is a season for everything, isn't there? I have found that the Lord often draws me away when He needs to prepare me for the "next" ... whatever that next may be.

Cyberspace will be a little less lovely with your absence, but the literary world may just be a lot more lively because of it.

Love & prayers,
Kathleen

Wendy Paine Miller said...

God = purpose.

I'm trusting Him to guide you.
~ Wendy

BECKY said...

Hi Terri! I wish you joy, in whatever you choose to do. I know you aren't nearly as old as I am, but I'm sure you can relate to one of my favorite quotes:"Looking back you realize that a very special person passed briefly through your life - and it was you. It is not too late to find that person again." Robert Brault.
Be happy. Find your bliss!

Ginny said...

Oh Terri, I fully understand. I don't know what is going on with me either, but lately, I have not been blogging, because I have, nothing to say.I know that God has a mission for me and right now, I am waiting, listening and praying for direction.
When you feel this strongly about your exit from blogging, then it must be the right decision. I still have facebook, and email, so I can continue to keep in touch. May our Risen Lord guide and directyour ways, always.! May you feel his Grace abundantly wash over you as you continue to search and discover.

Great Grandma Lin said...

personal inspiration is what should drive all of us. happy journeying wherever you are led....hugs

Deborah said...

I'm kindof in the same place, but I sure will miss reading your blog....gotta find you on FB!!

Keli Gwyn said...

I've enjoyed your posts, Terri, and will miss them. I pray the Lord will speak to you, revealing His plans for you and filling you with a sense of peace.

Loree Huebner said...

I will keep you in my prayers today. We will talk soon!

Kenda Turner said...

Seven years is a long time, Terri. But in that time you've encouraged and inspired many. Thank you! I'm glad our paths crossed, if only for a "blogging" season. Praying in this new season for you that joy returns abundantly, whatever form and/or direction it takes. Take care...

Margo Berendsen said...

If blogging has become a chore you dread, that's very understandable. But if you fear you just don't have anything to say anymore, or you fear sharing the thoughts that are in your head right now, there's something to say for someone willing to share transparently. Not enough Christians are transparent. We put on our happy smiley faces and pretend that all's well in in the world. Personally I would still love to continue following your journey - where ever the Lord takes you - because I fell in love with your blog because you've always been so honest and open, something I struggle with.

Just a thought. As you said, there is still Facebook!

Carol Riggs said...

Enjoy your break! We will support you no matter what you do. Best wishes and blessings, Terri! :)

Lillian Robinson said...

A break. It's just a break. We all need it at times. And even though you think it's depressing, I'm sure a lot of people would find encouragement from reading about what you're going through.

We all hit walls and struggle. I've been on my own break for 2 years! But I know I will be back. I have to. It's what I am.

Diane said...

Good luck on your decision and praying for God's continual leading! :O)

Karen Lange said...

I applaud your decision to step away and figure out where to go from here. I can relate, actually have been thinking about cutting back or taking a long blogging break. Will pray the Lord gives you continued peace and wisdom.

Thanks for all you've shared, and thanks also for the wonderful support you lent to me and my blog. You were among my earliest followers and you were/are such an encouragement!

Hugs and blessings,
Karen

Susan said...

Hi Terri....
Well, seven years is a long time. If you no longer feel joy in blogging, perhaps it's a good thing to take an extended break. I'll miss your columns but hope you will keep in touch.

You have had quite a journey (as we all do) and now you are in a new, light-filled valley. May the days be filled with continued sunshine.

You know I wish you the very best of life. Susan

Sally Wessely said...

I will miss you. I look forward to your posts. You are an inspiration even when you might not think so.

Seven years of blogging is a long time. I understand how you may want to give it up after that long and all you have gone through and are going through. We have phases in our lives. I think the worst thing we can do is try to impose something that was important in our lives at one time onto a time that is different from where we were before. The wise person recognizes that.

Unknown said...

Terri,
I read your post and want to tell you will be missed. I can't imagine that you would give up blogging for good, as you are a writer and we are your audience!
It's good however, to take time to renew your spirit and get a fresh vision. I need to do the same. I have found that I write much less than I used to before I began blogging regularly...and what I do write isn't my best work. I was just telling my daughter that yesterday.
Good luck sweetie. Enjoy the adventure.
xoxo,
Mary

Sarah Forgrave said...

We'll miss you, Terri, but I understand. I completely understand.

Linda O'Connell said...

Blessings to you in all your endeavors.

Jill Kemerer said...

I want you to sit down and find the joy in writing, just like you mentioned in your post. Maybe all the extra stuff is just that--extra--right now? I have a good feeling it won't be long before you're enjoying writing again!

Jennifer Shirk said...

I will miss your blog posts, but we'll always have Facebook.
I pray you find your purpose and that writing joy again, my dear. {hugs}

Cindy in PA said...

I am beginning to wonder if it's just me. I no sooner begin "following" a blogger, than she takes time off for a variety of reasons. (See how I made it about me? Ha!)

But seriously, I will miss reading your posts. You are a lovely writer and have been kind enough to leave encouraging comments for me. May I encourage you to take the time needed? Rest and pray through the scary thoughts, and I pray that you'll return to bless me/us with your writing when you're refreshed and feel that it's the right time.

Blessings and peace to you!

Nikki (Sarah) said...

Terri...you're one of the first people I connected with when I started blogging. I loved getting to know you. Your words...your inspiration...your kindness.....and your honesty and openness have always touched me....Glad that I can still stop by and say hi on Facebook.

Melissa Amateis said...

Take care, Terri. Will see you on Facebook!

Carmen said...

I totally relate! Although I enjoy blogging most of the time, it is a commitment and there's so many other important things that need doing as well. I'm trying to figure out where God wants me right now, and so I'm keeping up one blog...but not sure what will happen down the road. I hope to see you around FB! I think if I ever have the privilege of meeting you, it would be a wonderful experience!

Sally said...

Go and find peace. Godspeed.

Rachna Chhabria said...

Seven years is indeed a very long time, Terri. I know that you will make the right decision. Will be praying for you. We will be in touch via FB.

Rhonda Schrock said...

Rest, re-store, re-fresh, re-new, and only re-turn when you feel so led. Blessings, my friend.

Cheryl Klarich said...

It sounds like letting go is what you need to do!

I can't wait to see what God does with that... It's going to be awesome.

Prayers for your journey. (((hugs)))

Nancy said...

I would definitely miss your blog if you quit posting, but I can understand how you feel because I feel a lot the same way. I hope to see you on my comments some time. I'm still praying for you. I know God has great plans for you. He will slip them in as you continue to move forward.

Tiffany @ Tea w Tiffany said...

I understand, Terri. I've been blogging for 7 years as well. I did take a good break and got refocused. It helped some.. but I will say blogging has changed a lot over these years. With all the social media, we have to choose where to put our time and words. And I trust you will choose yours wisely. I trust you will follow His lead.

PS I am glad we are friends on FB. I enjoy our connection.

Hugs,

Tiffany

Stacy Henrie said...

I'll miss your blogging, Terri! But I'll watch for updates on Facebook. All the best in finding your writing joy again!

Carol J. Garvin said...

I'm sorry to see you leaving the blogosphere, Terri, but if you believe it's what you're suppose to be doing right now, then go for it! There's no point in asking for God's guidance in our lives and then ignoring him when he gives it. :) I pray he'll provide a clear direction for you in the next chapter of your life story.

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

Seven years is a lot of blogging.
Many hugs to you. I hope you rediscover that joy of writing again.

Unknown said...

You're such an encouragement, Terri! Although I'm saddened that you won't be posting your thoughts here, I know the Lord has a purpose and plan for you! I'm reminded of the verse in Jeremiah that says, "And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart," (29:13). Keep seeking Him and He will reveal His will for you! Looking forward to hearing what He has in store for you, my friend!

Hugs & blessings to you!

elaine @ peace for the journey said...

A courageous decision, friend. I pray God sends you blessing and peace as you make this transition.

peace~elaine

Christine said...

Can I just say something from my heart? When we fall into hardships and depression we think we have nothing to say. We may even feel like failures compared to those who write and share, but don't speak truth. But what about David who wrote the Psalms? Sadness is not taboo. It is a part of every life.

If you no longer enjoy writing that's one thing, but if you think people don't want to read about sadness, I believe you may be misguided. We all need to hear how the depths felt and how God redeemed them. We need testimony. God is no longer here in the flesh. He's here through testimony...he speaks through heart miracles.

I feel your sadness and I will help pray you out. Much love to you. I sincerely hope you come back because I don't do facebook.

Jeanette Levellie said...

Although we'll miss your posts, we understand, and pray you'll find your heart to write again. Blogging can be a distraction from our call, even though it's fun. Balance is a challenge, but I believe the Lord will direct you. YOU are a blessing!

Hugs
Jen

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Christa said...

I'm searching for my purpose, too. I started a blog two years ago and have fluctuated several times on which way I should go with it, or if I should go at all. I want to write, but when I sit down to write a post, I struggle with content. Sometimes, I feel like throwing in the towel, but for some reason, I haven't.

I pray you find your enjoyment in writing again!

Sharon K. Mayhew said...

Terri, I hope stepping back from blogging helps you find the fun in writing again. Writing and blogging should be enjoyable...if they aren't it's time to do something else. You have had a lot of changes in the past couple years. Take a break and find something else to do creatively... I bet you will find the joy in writing after you do something else for a bit. (hugs)

Connie Arnold said...

Terri, you can see from all the posts how much you are loved and how meaningful your blog is to so many. May God lead you to discover your purpose for this season in your life and bless you. Glad to still see you on Facebook!

Jackie said...

Hey Terri....I wanted to stop to see how you are doing and sad to read that you are not bloggin...but excited for you all at the same time! I can totally relate....the six months mia from blogging was mandated by Him and I am sooo glad that I obeyed. Wasn't sure I'd return but at the right time I felt the nudge to return, so here I am.

I, too, am at that awkward stage in life--trying to discover my purpose and realize my dreams again (and again)! And, I must say that He is revealing surprises of purpose that have been hidden deep within my heart for a long time now and I'm more focused and purposed that ever before! It's as if I'm in sinc now....journeying in perfect cadence with Him now. One day at a time... PTL!

I'll keep you in my prayers, friend!

Love and Sweet Blessings!
Jackie

Jessica Nelson said...

I'm going to miss you in the blogosphere. *sniffle*

Carol Lee said...

I love reading and i consider it as personal investing in my own terms. Just keep the communication bridge open though, especially to your fans. For sure they will love it.

Gina Conroy said...

Terri, I believe this time away will do just what you need it to do and give you more time to rediscover your purpose surrounded by family and friends!

Unknown said...

I recently discovered your blog and I was drawn to your authenticity. :) I finally mustered the courage to start my own blog, an inspirational one, as an anonymous encouragement to whomever is in need. I am a college student, who has rediscovered my love for writing. I was wondering if you have any advice on how to expand my blog to a bigger audience. I am so eager to write, I suppose it doesn't matter if only one person ever reads my blogs ... it seems to satisfy me to be able to write. I hope you continue blogging as I will be looking forward to your new posts. :)

yourjoypath.blogspot.com

Joanne@ Blessed... said...

I SO get you. I'm at an odd time in my life, too. What's God up to? You'd think the more I walk alongside Him the easier it would be to figure Him out. Yet, the closer I cling to Him the less I understand me.

I've been away from the blogosphere for quite awhile myself. Sure hope you're enjoying your time.

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