When I was lost and floundering, a mere droplet in a pond of writers composing stories to impact the lives of readers, one person opened her smile, her arms, her spirit and welcomed me. She encouraged me to--well, do pretty much all I am doing today in writing.
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Mary, Sue Herringshaw, Casey Herringshaw |
You might be surprised at her youth. I guess that is one plus for me, always willing to learn from anyone, no matter their age, and enjoy their presence.
Her amazing plus, among a heap of others, was the willingness to be a kindred spirit to one who was older.
We were chatting about what defines us, which turned into this post written by my good friend, Casey Herringshaw.
Defining You
Iām a writer. Words make up my world into a brighter, cheerier place (though sometimes when my characters misbehave, it can become a darker, more dangerous existence. ;-)
I have a list of words that describe me. Words that make up who I am to my friends, my family and to myself.
Avid reader.
General all-around farm girl.
Sister.
Daughter.
Aspiring author.
Contest finalist.
Friend.
Jewelry designer.
Nursesā Aide.
Virtual Assistant.
Virtual Assistant.

I wear a lot of hats. I use a lot of words. But you know the most important ones to me? The words that represent those closest in my lives. Daughter. Sister. Child of the King.
Sure, being an aspiring author is great. Donning the scrubs is a challenge. And making the jewelry is just plain fun, but they donāt represent me.
Some people would say itās my chair-dancing personality sneaking out and Iām just a fun-lovinā gal. (Thatās what my ACFW friends would say.)
My Alley Cats would just call me cheeky and sassy (when they are having a friendly, be-nice-to-Casey) day.
My family would tell you Iām helpful and a great daughter (might as well aim for the best, right??) but can be a might disagreeable at times.
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Casey's Facebook page |
But what I do I really want to be labeled for? What words do I want people to think of when they see me?
Christ-like.
Loving.
Giving.
Those are the words I want remembered of me and spoken of when my name is said. I want my heart to be so synonymous with Christās that nothing can separate one from the other.
If you had three words you had to pick, which ones would you choose and hope people would say of you? I hope youāll share in the comments, Iād love to get to know you!
Casey
Casey
Mary here...
Even in her twitter bio, Casey first tells her readers she is a Christ follower.
Casey Herringshaw is a homeschool graduate and has been writing since high school. She grew up in rural Eastern Oregon in a town more densely populated with cows than people. Taking the words and stories God has placed on her heart and putting them on paper is one of her passions in life. Casey is a member of ACFW.
So, what three words would you choose? Tough question, right? Yeah, me too. Just think of today. Right now. I suppose I'd pick: Listener, Christ-sharer, God-nature-art-lover.
Comments
Thanks Mary for sharing your friend Casey.