What’s a focal practice? In the simplest terms, it’s something that doesn’t involve a computer screen. It’s something that gets you outside, engages you with God’s creation, gets your hands dirty. He defines a focal practice as having these criteria: (1) it demands discipline and hard work; (2) it connects us with others (and our own hearts); and

If you’re going to deal in the currency of language, then read, read, read.

Read poetry. Study poetry.

don’t tell them what the song is about. Tell them just enough to engage them; let the song be the answer to the question you raised in your introduction.

On the other hand, don’t make them work too hard, or they’ll check out, either because you’ve made them feel dumb or they just get bored.

the audience wants to work for their entertainment, but not too hard. You don’t treat them like they’re idiots,

Write like other writers. If you’re stuck, pick your favorite songwriter and try writing a song like her.

the story of one of us is, in some measure, the story of us

Ah, Lord, I’m so weak! And so foolish. I’ve hurt my wife, my children, my friends. I just want to go home. Write that song. Write that story. Homesickness is the way home.