Side-by-Side Writing

I’ve written many times about how much I love Shauna Niequist’s writing, and her beautiful new book, I Guess I Haven’t Learned That Yet, is no exception. The whole book feels like a long conversation with an old friend, because Shauna has definitely lived in the season she’s describing: a season of starting all over, being a beginner, and opening the self to curiosity, wonder, and delight, even when it’s painful. I loved every word of this book, and I’m actually reading it now for the second time. 

The school year is ending, and we’re almost halfway through 2022. I chose generosity as my word this year because I wanted to learn more about how to think generously–assuming the best in others and in myself–and to live generously–sharing from whatever abundance I have with those who cross my path, whether for a few minutes or for years. All of this requires me to let go of ideas and practices that are often firmly entrenched. Sometimes being generous is easy, and sometimes it’s impossible. I’m learning all the time.

Today I’m thinking about that learning and trying a side-by-side writing exercise in imitation of Shauna. I’m using the quotation below, which stood out to me in Shauna’s book in both of my readings, to help me think about what I’m learning about generosity, what I still need to learn, and how to do both of those things in a way that’s true to myself.

Shauna:

I thought I needed a great army of friends, eleven sets of dishes, six pairs of boots, and two thousand books. I thought I needed an institution, a board of directors, a cozy blanket of like-minded, supportive people spread all over the country who would have my back in a heartbeat. Turns out you need three sweaters, rent money, and five really good people. You need eggs and coffee. A Kindle account, a metro card, and one good umbrella.

Me:

I thought I needed a Friends-style open house, a flawless guest bedroom, endless fun t-shirts, and a perfect outfit for every occasion. I thought I needed a close variety of friends, constant affirmation, an array of conversations going on at all times on Voxer. Turns out you need a couple of delicious recipes, jeans that make you feel good, and someone to laugh with in meetings. You need water and Birkenstocks. A library card, a soft couch with a spare pillow, and an open heart.