Confirmation that writers’ craft can seed transformation, inspire partnerships, and change lives
My inbox is usually a minefield of unremarkable messages and spam. However, one early morning last week, as I absentmindedly scrolled through my emails, a subject line shattered the monotony and caught the attention of my sleepy mind.
“Your article spurred a Pilot Program between Dr. Ben Carson & James Patterson.”
Suddenly, the haze of morning dissipated, replaced by intrigue and curiosity. My head was spinning, and questions began to buzz around my brain. How had my article captured the attention of two prominent figures, Dr. Ben Carson and James Patterson, leading to the launch of a new program?
I was soon to learn that the written word — even from a writer like me- can foster the power of connection and create an enormous impact. And make me believe my time spent writing is worthwhile.
Dr. Carson is an American retired neurosurgeon, academic, and author who served in the White House. James Patterson is one of the most successful — and prolific — writers of all time, has regularly topped the Forbes list of highest-paid authors, and is a stalwart advocate for literacy.
James Patterson and Dr. Ben Carson, two distinct luminaries in their respective fields, converged due to my article’s influence. I opened the message with my hands shaking from both excitement and nerves.
“I wanted to reach out to you to share that this article you wrote was read by Dr. Ben and Candy Carson. It prompted Dr. Carson to write a letter to James Patterson as they both support education. Today the Carson Scholars Fund is launching a new scholarship program in partnership with James Patterson….Thank you for your part in making this happen.”
