I just finished my first class at DTS and my TA suggested I submit my final paper for publication in one of three journals of Christian education. I trust his judgment—he went through this same program and has a doctorate in education—I’m just frozen by shock. I was just trying to get out of this class alive.
My main concern, as always, is, “What if I suck am not very good at this?” I tend to give up on things when there’s a risk that they won’t work out, so this would normally be a no-brainer: stuff this thing in a drawer, then twenty years from now say, “Oh, I wrote this thing once someone thought I should show to somebody about…blah, blah, blah.”
But if I’m going to finish seminary I’m going to have to push past that. So that leaves me a bit confused, because I don’t know anyone who has had anything published before. Well, there are the professors, but who wants their help?
If anyone has some good advice, let me know.
John Dyer
You rule. Take the risk!!
More from authorNiema
I can help you. The writers group I ran while in Arlington covered submissions and review. I can show you.tell you how to do some of the foot work. Editing is important and tangibles to connect with your reader as well.
Let me know.
I still have to get back to my prospectus for submission to an art/art history magazine.
Let me know.
BTW: Part of higher education is publication of works, especially if you ever teach at a seminary or other institution. Building your background of involvement early gets a jump on all the other candidates when they graduate as well.
Besidews if you set in now to publish at least once every other year, you’ll be set for alternative career choices if your chosen path ever gets stale.
~Peace
Beverly
I have self-published and Niema has run a writer’s group and has written articles so you have help within your family.
The suggestion from your TA would not have come if what you have written was not of the highest caliber. Trust yourself. Trust your talent. Trust your love of what you do.
Just allow yourself to say: I don’t know how I am a great insightful writer with the aid of the Holy Spirit. I only know that I am now and I am grateful. This prayer will allow you to let go of the fear and the doubt and let God help you come into your greatness.
Dawn Coe
Get over it, Charles! Where else did you think this was going? If you want to have an effect on Christian education you are going to have to cultivate your voice and be be prepared to have it heard. What are you freaking over? The editor won’t like it? The readers won’t like it? So what? If it doesn’t get published that doesn’t mean you won’t get accepted another time, and I can guarantee that at least one reader won’t agree with what you have to say. Education is what you have decided you want to do, and publishing is a logical step in the process. You didn’t seek this out, so God is guiding you. Find your courage!
Charles
Thanks for all of your encouragement. Unfortunately it is having no effect…
Ok, really, I found a friend who is a writer who’s going to look it over, and I’ll be checking with a professor about content soon. I’ll let you all know when it’s finished!