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The Moving Pencil
by Julie Jordan Scott

Emma writes deliberately and passionately.

A kindergartener, Emma has learned that within letters and words is the power to change the world.

She knows that from out of her pencil and onto the paper. She can createa powerful impact..she can express each and everything that matters. She also knows words can be expressed from one of two places.

They can build up, they can tear down.

They can invite, they can turn away.

At thirteen, I was told not to write anything down. "It can then be held against you! Whatever you do, DON'T write it down! Certainly DON'T write creatively or expressively!!" Put your pencils DOWN.

What a conflict! My pencil longed to dance across the page. It wanted to move, to flow, to make words, to make meaning.

One of my greatest joys, one of my favored methods of expression seemed to be taken away from me.

I turned to writing term papers with incredible heart and vision. From the 35 page tome in the fifth grade with almost 40 sources on Migrant Farm Workers to the Ten Page Single Spaced College Paper on the Ivory Coast which one of my classmates "read twice, just cause it was so interesting and written so well!". I wrote words. I moved my pencil.

I wrote poetry in the hushed stillness of my dorm room. I wrote songs which I sang with full alto tones imitating my favored performer, Carly Simon. I revered her: she overcame stage fright to win Grammy Awards.

I could overcome word fright to become a published author.

Earlier this year I stood at a local book store for my first book signing.

As I signed my very first autograph ever, I paused within. While I stood in the store poised and smiling, inside I was the no-longer-confused-thirteen year old, arms over my head shouting in delight.

I stood up to the conflict and peacefully persevered.

Choose to build up the world with your words.

With your words, invite others along for the adventure alongside you.

Keep your pencil moving.

Copyright © 2002 Julie Jordan Scott

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