Blog

How I Became a Member of Larksong

And maybe why you might like to become one too!

This is the first in a series of blogs by Larksong member and volunteer Brandi Shaffer:

My Story:

Hi! I’m Brandi, a current creative writing MFA student at Southern New Hampshire University. I’m also an intern and volunteer for Larksong Writers Place. In the next few blog posts I want to share a little about my experience with becoming a member of Larksong, about the value of volunteering and how writing groups can help writers develop their craft and build a supportive community. I hope this series helps you find your people, identify your mission, and develop a plan for your writing life.

How I Got Involved:

I can’t say that I was excited at the idea of reaching out to Larksong for the first time. I’m a writer with anxiety who was content in the cozy little world I’d created for myself surrounded by hundreds of books, papers and pens, and my laptop.

But then my MFA professor suggested I reach out to my local writing community and get involved to see what they had to offer. The idea of doing that was terrifying. I was perfectly fine where I was at. Then came an essay assignment that “highly encouraged” it, and I wanted that “A” badly. So, I begrudgingly made my first phone call to Larksong to interview the director at Larksong Writers Place. I was completely taken aback by how that call went. Karen Shoemaker showed me the kindness and patience I needed in that moment. She understood my anxiety and had me relaxed and laughing in no time. She explained everything that Larksong was about, and by the end of our call, I knew what it was that I wanted to be when I grew up—I wanted to be the kind of person who picks up the phone when the nervous writer calls, reassures them, and guides them on the right path that will help them grow as a writer and as a person. I want to help spread the joy of the written word to those who need it most, to uplift other writers, and to help people share their stories. I want to be a part of something bigger than myself—to be part of Larksong.

I became a member shortly after that first call and have since used my newfound passion and direction to put myself “out there” and become more involved in making a difference in our community

Final Thoughts:

So, there you have it, that’s the story of how I became a member of Larksong Writers Place. And before I move on, I want to add that I'm glad I did--and I did get an “A” on my essay! A huge thank you to Karen for her help with that!

Now it’s time for me to get back to my grueling assignments so I can finish up this degree and have more time to support my literary community. See you at Larksong!