Edison could have quit after just one failed attempt at creating the light bulb. But. No. He kept going. What kept him going? Why did he keep going? Passion? Persistence? Patience?
Often, I wonder why people do things. Why do people say what they say? Why do they do what they do? Why…?
Several months ago, someone asked me why I write historical fiction and for a moment, I was a bit stumped.
Because I find it fascinating? Because I love the classy eras? Because I think that the items they used are pretty? Because I have an affinity for writing about history to show others what unique things happened, things that are not in today’s history textbooks?
Well, all of that is true. But I couldn’t just say that. 🙂
After a few quick seconds, I figured out the response:
Historical fiction is based on facts, facts that are measured by time and events that people can relate to in some way. Historical fiction is based on reality, a reality that establishes facts and tells the world that the planet they’re living in is not just a big blob, but that is real and created by the Father. Historical fiction shares the deep heart-of-the-matter moments that change lives and influence people to choose either good or evil. Historical fiction points to a real world with real issues.
Growing up in school, Edison’s teacher told him he wouldn’t amount to much. He was constantly in trouble because he would never pay attention. However, what the critics failed to notice was that Edison’s mind was already turning over inventions, inventions that have advanced society for the better. Edison enjoyed what he did. And that’s what spurred him to keep trying.
I’d love to hear from you! Why do you do what you do? What keeps you going?