Introduction

My name is Brandon Ray. My pen name is B.C. Ray. I’m a husband, dad, and lover of stories. Stories have always been special to me. I love to hear them, love to tell them. Life is enriched sitting together with loved ones, sharing food, drink, and stories. It is how we share ourselves with others. Through story, we bring people into the story of our lives. They become the audience and we the characters, life the plot, lessons the theme.

Why I started a Substack

I have been watching a friend of mine develop his writing through regular blog posts. He set writing goals and applied techniques he learned. It became an avenue for him to practice his craft. I have felt God’s calling to write like a pounding drum on my conscience for quite some time now. A second friend of mine got me compilation book of notes on writing by C.S. Lewis for Christmas. Lewis is my favorite. I just came across a part of his letter to Arthur Greeves where is says practicing is critically important. Even if what we write gets tossed in the fire, I will be better for the work. I could not deny it any longer. I need to write. I will be using this platform for that. I will be honing my craft with writing prompts as well thoughts and notes on the writing process.

I’m hoping to connect with a group of people who love the craft of writing and story telling who will provide constructive feedback as I work through what I learn. What I publish here will be raw. My goal is not to produce publish ready material. My goals is to get better as a writer so the writing I do publish is continually getting better. If you would like to join me on that journey progress, I welcome you and your thoughts.

About Me

My life’s goal is to sit and write in a shop that I own. I love craft beverages (coffee, beer, wine). I’ve been writing for long time, but just publishing recently. I have a few short stories on Amazon. I published my first novel. I had finished writing it 10 years ago and finally put in the work to give it a quick edit and publish. It was a big deal.

I am husband of 15 years. I’m a Girl Dad through and through. My two daughters have been an inspiration for nearly everything in my life. I started a series of short stories called Tall Tales For Little Girls, which are stories that dads would like to tell their daughters. I love cooking and serving food to my loved ones.

All of that is wrapped up in my faith. I chose to follow Christ when I was in 6th grade. I still carry the commitment card in my wallet. I have the InkleDeux podcast with my cousin where we process questions and topics regarding our faith and look for life lessons. My writing will be fully informed by my faith journey. In my about the author, I always thank God for allowing me to participate in the creative process because I get a glimpse of His creative nature. It is the one place where I feel I get to participate with God.

I’m going to start writing. I you will join me on the journey, but I’m willing to walk it alone. This is something I need to do. I’m excited to start.