Sharing Others' Stories

Me (kneeling) to interview Stan Freitas, Lead Minister of Hope Christian Church in Paradise, California after the November 2018 fire

I tend to write less for myself lately. Lest you think I’ve simply run out of ideas, please note this to the contrary—my brain and heart are simply tired after holding tightly to the stories entrusted to me.

Much of my writing this year has been about communicating other people’s stories. While I get energized and inspired as I interview them, when it comes time to drafting the words that will go out into the world, I suddenly feel the pressure.

(Self-created pressure, that is.)

How can I create intriguing copy that will draw readers in? How can I present this piece in just the right way? I want everyone in the world to learn about the wonderful people I meet; I want to honor these amazing journeys. So I agonize.

In the end, when the star of the feature says they enjoyed the outcome, I breathe a sigh of relief and know that it was worth it.

Then it’s on to the next.

Please read some of my most recent interviews of people who have faced fire, cancer, and poverty as they care for others and serve the Lord:

• Hope in the Ashes [feature profile from the November 2018 Paradise, California fire] (CDF Capital)
Additional pieces: Stories from Hope, Updates from Paradise, Escaping the Flames
• In memory of Tyler Trent: Purdue football, family, faith (CDF Capital)
• Kendi’s Cows of Grace
• The Silent Struggle of Suburban Poverty