Recently, a friend of mine and I were having a conversation about his affinity for posting philosophical quotes on his social media platforms. He would always share thought-provoking material on theology and Christian doctrine. Every time he posts, I am transported to a space where I am reminded of why I appreciate words in the first place. I comforted and convinced and persuaded why I need to be a light in this world.

Though these words are not his own, he is like the men and women he quotes: Wise, intelligent, and intentional with his words. It could be because of his profession as a pastor, or his passion for reading. But, in my estimation, his scholarly mind and kind heart properly position him to be a good writer someday. I feel it in my bones.

I replied to one of his posts and asked him when he would be releasing his book. “Give me 10 years or so when people have a reason to read my content,” he said. “Ten years?” I thought to myself. Granted, this young man is not 25 years old yet, and he is fresh out of seminary. However, I believe ten years is too long of a time. I shared with him that I believe he has a reason to write now. The truth is we currently live in an era where the production of meaningful literature is few. What’s of good quality is frowned upon because of “likes and subscriptions”. His voice, through God, would be refreshing, I believe.  He has a voice now and should be used now. He then told me that he was thinking about short articles for now. The book, of course, would be done later. I encouraged him to go for it. I told him to start small.

And that may be the reality for all of us. We may have a major idea or goal in mind but shrink back or delay because we may not have the experience or visibility to get there. The answer then is to start small. Get your feet in the water, so that when that major project is ready to be done, you will have experience under your belt.

I often think about algebra. Solving math problems with a combination of letters and numbers was not done overnight. Rather, the process started years before that when we learnt to identify letters, numbers and how to use mathematical processes effectively to get the right answer. We started small. We used counters / an abacus, learnt concepts and the basics. All of these made us know how to do advanced mathematical equations.

It’s the same for reading. I recall reading short books with three-word sentences in my early years. I could not read a Sidney Sheldon novel. I had to start small. I did not only learn how to read words, but I understood over time what those words meant. Throughout the years, I was able to use them correctly and effectively in my works literary works.

There are so many other examples around us. Trees start from seeds. A building is formed by laying blocks one by one. A musician becomes skillful because of practice. Though tedious, we should not despise humble beginnings. Use these occasions to learn, grow and develop. We should also use these opportunities given to us wisely, recalling we have a goal in mind. The “small stuff” may seem insignificant and useless when we look at the bigger picture. However, they are meaningful and will serve as building blocks for the journey and the destination. I have said it before, and I will echo it again: Use what you have now. You will never know whose life you will touch (yours included), and your journey will be one for the books. Pun intended.

And as for you, my friend, I look forward to your literary works. May the Lord empower you and give you all the tools needed to start the process and reach all your goals.

Start small, and finish well.

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