I haven’t written on here much lately. Once I turned in my manuscript for my book, it felt like a well had dried up. I wasn’t expecting that feeling. But after I crossed my first finish line, it was like I had expended my resources and didn’t have much more to give. I left it all in the book.
Frankly, it was discouraging. I like writing on the internet. Whether it’s this newsletter or articles at other outlets or shorter tweet threads, being able to think out loud is an extremely helpful practice in sorting through and clarifying thoughts. And I genuinely see it as a way to serve. Not that I have everything figured out or think I’m right about everything. But if I can articulate thoughts I have or lessons I’ve learned in a way that serves others, I want to help in that way.
After a few months of sitting in this mental trough (and emotional discouragement), it started to dawn on me that part of my problem wasn’t so much that I didn’t have anything to say, it was that my life wasn’t organized in a way that allowed me to think clearly and articulate those thoughts. I succumbed to the tyranny of the urgent and ironically became much less productive. Chasing the most urgent things left me scattered and unable to focus. So, I’m working on restructuring my days to allow for more creative work. I hope that I’ll be able to get back on a regular rhythm of producing content while also increasing my overall productivity.
On top of that, I’ve just recently read some great books that have helped me tremendously and put some wind back in my sails. You’ll probably see me quoting Augustine’s Confessions much more from here on out.
In terms of the book, I’m currently in the editing phase. It’s much less fun than the writing phase, but it is cool to see a book become better and start to take shape into its final form.
Also, it finally has a name. The book is called Walking Through Deconstruction: How to Be a Companion in a Crisis of Faith. It’s on the calendar to be published in January 2025, but nothing is set in stone, and the timeline could be pushed up.
If you’re not already subscribed to this newsletter and want updates on the book, like when it’s available for pre-order, subscribing is the best way to stay up to date.
In the meantime, there are a few other articles I’m cooking up for other places, and the seeds of some future projects have been planted that I’m excited about the potential for. I’ve also turned my personal Instagram into a #Bookstagram account where I share book recommendations and quotes. If that’s something you’re into, you can follow me there. I thought sharing good books would be better than sharing bad selfies.
Finally, my wife and I are welcoming our second son into the world in March. We’re preparing for his arrival and can’t wait for him to be here. If you remember us, please keep us in your prayers.
That’s what’s going on! I’ll have a new newsletter out next week, and the plan is to have it every week after. Thank you to everyone who has subscribed to follow along. I’m excited for the year ahead.