Oh, to be a Writer

Eastern Mennonite University hosted a writer's read tonight (02/28/25) featuring Rachel Yoder and her book Nightbitch. Several years ago I presented my own book at such an event: Coming of Age in Honduras: a Young Adult's Struggle with Poverty, Faith and Sexuality. 

Every time I hear a writer speak, or whenever I read someone else's work, I get the renewed itch to write. Writing is cathartic. Writing is spiritual. Writing is life-giving. At least that is the way I have come to understand this magical process.

In order to write, one must have a project. I've written a book on the Beatitudes, I've written a book on Spirituality, I've written a book on the experiences of my daughter while she was in Mexico, I've written a memoir and I have consolidated my blog posts into a book.

So what should be my next project? A novel? An historical novel of the lives of my ancestors who emigrated from France to Switzerland to Germany and finally to the USA? Should I write about my son's experiences in Switzerland like my daughter's in Mexico? 

Rachel Yoder in her presentation said that she was inspired by a writing group to write 1,000 words a day which she would do for several weeks, then stop for several months before beginning again. Is this how I should begin?

I have a good friend who encouraged me to do the historical novel about my ancestors. He is a scientist, and I asked him if he would be interested in a book about a dialog between science and spirituality. 

Despite these ideas, one needs some sort of inspiration, or impetus to write. I am waiting for that impetus. I am waiting to be inspired so that I can put my need to write into gear. 

Any suggestions?