When You Can't Find Your Community - Build One!

A while back, my spirited 9-year-old granddaughter asked me a question that made my heart swell with pride.

"Mimi, how do I become a writer?"

As an avid reader and writer myself, I loved hearing her ask that question. I suggested she look for a writing club or community where she could learn alongside other young writers.

I searched for her but did not have any luck.

I googled. But couldn't find anything nearby that felt like the right fit.

Many people would have stopped there.

Not Olivia.

Because Olivia enjoys teaching she decided to experiment and see if she could gather some friends. They began meeting on Saturday mornings at the school playground while their brothers played flag football. Armed with a blanket, paper, pencils, and plenty of imagination, they got to work. They started with about 3-4 members.

Soon there were six.

Today, there are twelve.

Week after week, Olivia arrives prepared with writing prompts and creative assignments. The children encourage one another, share their work, and celebrate accomplishments. They even award prizes from time to time!

Two weeks ago I had the privilege of visiting and seeing this little community in action. The excitement was contagious! The young writers eagerly shared their goals for the week, discussed their projects, and listened attentively as Olivia explained the next assignment. What impressed me most was learning that they consistently return each week with their writing completed!

Think about that for a moment.

A group of children voluntarily gathering to write, encourage one another, and grow in their craft.

No one required it.

No adult organized it for them.

One little girl simply decided to do something about it.

I left inspired.

I was asked to feature the winner of a writing contest within this remarkable group. Today, I am delighted to introduce Lydia R, a faithful member of Olivia's writing club who is 9 years old. With permission from Lydia and her parents, I am honored to share with you her poem. May her words encourage your heart as much as this young writers' community has encouraged mine.

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What They Think

By Lydia R

From the moment I came here,

I am suddenly filled with fear.

Do they think I'm anything more than a girl who's just a bore?

When I think I'm big and mighty, people make me feel tiny.

When I think I'm tough and strong, I wonder if I don't belong.

Then I hear God say that I'm okay; I have no price to pay.

Because He gave His life, there's no need to pay a price.

We believe in Jesus Christ.

Since He resurrected, we can all be connected.

Who cares about other things when we have a God who listens to our fears?

For I know He is always near.

So give Him your thoughts; He loves to hear.

Give Him your worries, your problems, your fear.

For He loves us with all His heart, and we will never be apart.

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Friends, what dream has God placed in your heart?

Perhaps you've been waiting for someone else to start something. Maybe you've been looking for the perfect opportunity, the perfect group, or the perfect invitation. But what if God is calling you to take the first step? What if the community you're searching for doesn't exist yet because you're the one meant to build it? Olivia taught me a powerful lesson: don't wait for permission to pursue what God has placed on your heart.

Take the next step.

Build your community.

Encourage others.

Show up.

Then show up again.