There's no subject you don't have permission to write about. Students often avoid subjects close to their heart ... because they assume that their teachers will regard those topics as 'stupid.' No area of life is stupid to someone who takes it seriously. If you follow your affections you will write well and will engage your readers.

Editors are licensed to be curious.

Dare to tell the smallest of stories if you want to generate large emotions.

All writers should strive to deliver something fresh-something editors or readers won't know they want until they see it.

Writing is thinking on paper.

As a writer I try to operate within a framework of Christian principles, and the words that are important to me are religious words: witness, pilgrimage, intention.

Examine every word you put on paper. You'll find a surprising number that don't serve any purpose.