Nov. 4/11
Have you noticed how many stories follow a 'hero journey'. The main character (protagonist) receives a call to fulfill a quest of some kind. She/he starts out confident and runs into roadblocks and border bullies that discourage them; they get scared and go home. An internal sense of mission ignites the flame of courage and they fight their way around their roadblocks and discover mentors: wizards or grandpas or friends or books or puppies or teachers or...., who encourage them and supply lessons and tools to help them on their way.

When armed and ready our potential hero heads off to complete his/her mission; stepping over the 'threshold of commitment'; there is no turning back. BUT! trials and traps and tribulations make the journey difficult and sometimes almost impossible; but, this is where our protagonist learns what he/she needs to know; this is where endurance, and confidence and leadership are hewn. Our main character  crosses his personal desert and becomes a warrior/ hero, setting the example for those following behind. Our story ends with he/she returning home to help/teach/heal/ save those left behind. Our main character has changed; has grown, the community acknowledges the return of a hero.

And we, the readers, come to acknowledge the hero characteristics in our own lives.
Keep thinking, keep writing,
Mrs. J