No matter how many plays I start, I always seem to have a period of time right before in which I’m filled with fear, which usually leads to procrastinating and many “almost” starts. It’s the creative version of running to jump in a pool but convincing yourself at the very last moment how freezing and uncomfortable the water will be, so you screech to a halt, much to the dismay of your feet. But then, eventually, something happens. Maybe you run a little too fast or you find a new pocket of courage somewhere within you and you finally jump in. Maybe the water does feel freezing and uncomfortable, but almost immediately, your body acclimates and the fear disappears. I have recently started a play that is incredibly personal to me which has caused me to do my running/screeching dance a lot more than I’m used to and it was starting to hurt. That’s because I know that the water for this one may never stop feeling uncomfortable. But, I’ve realized that perhaps this is exactly what I need as a writer, something challenging. And even though it may be uncomfortable, I still gotta find the joy in it anyway. Because one way or another, this play is getting written. All of this to say that I have officially jumped it. I’m freezing, uncomfortable, but I’m going to enjoy it as much as I can. The writing process for most people is always a personal one and we bring our lives at that very moment into each page we write as well as taking the writing we accomplish that day back into our lives. It’s cyclical. So please, if you see me around, know that your kind words and support go a long way, especially during the beginning phase of writing the darkest and most personal thing I have in my bones. I know, Mr. Funny Man is writing something dark. But, again, I appreciate everyone’s support and kindness always, especially in the coming months. I love you all!
