That is what my Faith Lifts post is about today-- the value of listening.  I think this is an important post for all women to read, as I think that we all struggle with really listening.  We all tend to want to talk, to be heard.  Instead, we get so much out of tuning our ears in to really hear the voices around us.  So, I hope this post ministers to someone today-- this truth is one I am learning in my own life, as always! 

And on another note, I have recently learned that Jodi Picoult, Anita Shreve, Alice Hoffman, and Elizabeth Berg all have new novels out!!  Where am I going to find the time to read all these books??  Good thing summer is fast approaching, as all of these will fit the bill when I am looking to read something by the pool or on the beach... who am I kidding?  A mom of six never just lounges by the pool or sunbathes on the beach with a book in hand!  (Though I do look forward to the day when that will be possible.) But, seriously, this is good news... these ladies are giants to me, and while I may not agree with all of what they write, I learn so much about the craft of writing just by reading their stuff.  They write in such a way that many times I have to go back and read a sentence all over again just to appreciate how they have strung the words together.  Their writing takes my breath away, and it is a gift when I get to dive into one of their books and appreciate their talent all over again. 

These women inspire me to be a better writer, to raise the bar.  The quality of their writing is why I very seldom read Christian fiction-- it pales in comparison.  I don't mean to dis Christian fiction writers, but I generally can't read what I deem as bubblegum literature.  It is like comparing pop music to Classical.  I just can't bridge the gap, and don't want to waste time reading the pop stuff when I can have the richness of really good writing to inspire me and spur me on.  That's just my two cents on this subject, and I know many of you will disagree.  And yes, I do struggle with that verse about "Whatever is right, whatever is true, whatever is pure and holy, etc."  But in this case, I read for more than the story-- I read to learn from those who have perfected their craft.  (Although I bet they would never say they have perfected their craft!) 

And to the commenter who asked if I have read Elizabeth Foss' book Real Learning, I have, and I loved it!!  It is so rich, you really have to read it twice just to take it all in.  I keep it handy at all times, just for when I need some inspiration.  I highly recommend this book to all homeschoolers.  Though she writes from a Catholic perspective, there is good stuff there for all.  For more info on getting this book, you can find it at Amazon, or go to her blog, which is listed in my sidebar.  Enjoy!