Writer's Spark: Childhood Hopes

Some of you may wonder what drew me into writing. Well, you have to give some credit to my favorite books, authors, and anything that inspires me. But whenever I think of something incredible, interesting, or inspiring, I have to put it on paper. So here's the deal: it started first grade.

I suck at remembering anything, but this was my Writer's Spark, and I'll never forget it.

It was a rainy day, and everyone was either sulking inside or playing card games carelessly. I was thinking about a book I had read not too long ago. Then I sparked an idea. It was a silly story, now that I get back to it. Something about a girl who wanted to go to the park and it was raining. (Picked up some inspiration from outside the window.) So I took out my drawing book and my pencil.

Typically, my story, as a first grader, only lasted about a page. Sure, the words were squiggly and they were all over the place, but I was proud of my work. The teacher was sitting at her desk and I finally gathered up my courage to go and show her.

She was impressed. Not just "impressed," but fascinated. Astonished, even. She immediately ordered me to read it out loud to the class. I can still feel their little eyes on me…

So I did. I read it out loud to them. Some were interested, others just wanted to go back to playing. But I was proud.

That day, everything changed. At home, I began writing ultimately lame stories that showed no passion, inspiration, or that I had talent. So for second grade, my ability to write creatively faded away, and I ignored it…

Until fourth grade. Actually, I was kind of failing to write anything decent in third grade.

Forth grade. The best year ever. My teacher was as strict as strict can be, though. Plus, I got on her nerves often. But I liked her. Whenever she read books to us, her voice seemed to take me to the story itself. Everything that a character said was enhanced by her voice. She even gave us book recommendations.

Then, we had a writing assignment. I knew exactly what to write, but didn't know how to write it. I just sat there in my seat. Staring at the walls and thinking. Did I forget to mention I'm a slacker at times?

I suddenly totally didn't care about my assignment and began writing everything inside my head. It felt awesome. Like unleashing your inner thoughts through a pencil onto paper.

When the due date came, I handed my assignment in confidently. Later, my teacher said she would share three assignments that had excellent quality. I knew it wouldn't be me so I sat back and relaxed.

"And this one is by Ashlyn," I suddenly heard her say.

I couldn't believe it. Everyone stared at me like they did in first grade as my jaw dropped open. Sure enough, she read out my assignment. It was good, now that I had heard it out loud.

Later that year, we had a public speaking contest. Two students would be chosen from each fourth grade class to participate in the final rounds. I wrote something enjoyable, humorous, and satisfying. A day from the perspective of my beloved (now dead) budgie named Snowy.

The class loved it. My teacher loved it. I thought it was good enough to make it to the finals. But it wasn't. That depressing day was one I'll never forget. I cried and cried, tear after tear.

I thought I couldn't write anymore. That I had lost my talent, again.

But in fifth grade, everything changed. This year the public speaking contest required fifth graders to enter too. Unfortunately, I can't seem to remember what my topic was this time -_-.

But nevertheless, the class loved it. In fact, it was better than last year. I made it into the finals and got so close to winning. Although I didn't win first prize, I still have a medal sitting in my display case.

Now, writing is a part of me.

I live to write.

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So… how was it? I might have a contest for Writer's Spark stories, which will be when you tell your story of how you came to know writing. Or, I might just open up some guest posting slots for people. If you are interested, use the contact form on the side or email me at authorashlynshore@gmail.com

If you are interested in a guest post, please ensure your post is at least 700 words and under 5,000 words. You may also tweet questions to me at @Ashlyn_Shore

Tell me your thoughts and if I should have a contest!

- Ashlyn, Aspiring Author of Today