As I scrolled through a website listing the top 51 quotes from literature, I couldn’t help but think of the passages that I have deemed my favorites; the ones that at one time or another helped me through hard times or just lifted my spirits. My favorites didn’t make the list that I was reading, but as I read through the quotes I could understand why others chose them as their favorites.

I had read many of the books quoted, but some I had not. I was moved by some of the quotes I found, but I particularly liked one from Kite Runner, a book I have not read.  The quote said, “I wondered if that was how forgiveness budded; not with the fanfare of epiphany, but with pain gathering its things, packing up, and slipping away unannounced in the middle of the night.” I found this to be beautiful; simple and beautiful.

One of my own goals as a writer, and I’m sure one of the goals of many writers, is that my words will resonate with someone so much that they wish to hold onto them forever, memorizing them, and pulling them out when they need to be comforted, inspired, or reminded of God’s love.  I wish my words to bring joy, laughter, consolation, and peace. When someone reads what I have written I want them to know they aren’t alone in what they are going through.  I want us to laugh and cry together.

While I have no inflated notions that my words will last long enough to be quoted and shared, I do hope that those who read them now will find a sense of understanding and connection. I hope they make a difference for those who read them. If by chance they last for longer than the day they are written, then I pray they will be received with love and with hope by those who discover them later.

My main vocation in life is a wife and mother, but I hope one day I am also remember for inspiring others to be the best they can be; for reminding people that they are beautifully and wonderfully made and that God loves them with an undying love; for connecting with others through everyday life experiences; and by encouraging them to keep going even though the darkest nights seem to have descended upon them. I pray my writing will support, uplift, encourage, inspire, and impart a great deal of hope and love. If I have done that, regardless of if I am ever quoted or not, I will be successful as a writer.