I write. I write because I must. Sometimes I write my novels. Sometimes I write short stories. Sometimes I write in my personal journal. Sometimes I simply write in my own mind, observing the world–wondering how it works, watching people, analyzing my own actions and my reactions to others and then taking mental notes. I write to remember.

After a story hooks the reader well enough that they turn the page, it is the plot and the characters that keep them reading. As the protagonist progresses through the story, the reader is expecting something: The hero must win. If nothing else, the hero must learn something and become a better person because of it.

There is a writing technique for plot development called The Hero’s Journey. You can read about the basics of this using this technique in your writing here at Jordan McCollum’s blog. An ordinary world, a call to adventure, reluctance to accept the call, mentors, tests and trials, setbacks, etc. are all part of the journey. In the end, the Hero must succeed.

Today is Sunday. For me, a day of personal reflection and worship. A day when I take the family to church, partake of the Sacrament, learn, serve, and spend time with family. And right now I wonder if I am in the belly of the whale, or in the cave facing my darkest demons. Or, it may just be a bump in the road. My friends would most certainly call it a mid-life crisis. But a mid-life crisis which has lasted two years? Or has it been five years? Am I at the point of transformation?

Do you ever wonder if you will be the hero? I wonder about myself. Where am I on the Hero’s Journey? Am I on the right track?

Make no mistake, I consider myself very, very blessed. I have had fantastic opportunities in my life. I have a wonderful family. I love my wife, my kids, my grand-daughter, my parents, grand-parents… all of my family. I live in a nice home. I have a job (there are MANY who don’t have that right now). I have food to eat, clothes to wear. And yet…I struggle.

I struggle because I want to be the hero.

There is a fire that burns within me. It makes me wish for a successful journey–to protect my family, to slay the dragon, to return with the magic elixir of life. To conquer. To receive Atonement.

I am so glad it is Sunday.

As you go through this week, think about your own Hero’s Journey. Where are you on the path? Will you come off conqueror?

What will be your story?

Tags: Spiritual Thoughts