“A book is a gift for a reader, a connection from their hearts to the heart of someone out there who really needs their words. This is especially true of stories that delve into sensitive, difficult, and/or vulnerable topics. Instead of focusing on what you’re exposing of yourself, focus on what you’re normalizing for them — and what relief and liberation might come from that gift. Your courage might literally save lives.” — Loren Oberweger, “Taboo, Tender, True, How to Write Difficult Tops with Authority and Heart” by Ryan G. Van Cleave, July/August 2026 Writer’s Digest
Lorin Oberweger [Note spelling] is a highly sought-after independent book editor and ghostwriter with almost thirty years experience in publishing.
Her company, Free Expressions, offers intensive, deep craft workshops nationwide. She’s also known for her one-on-one story mastermind session for writers of all genres of fiction and creative nonfiction.
Make a list of five physical / tangible things you want to own or have.
In your wildest dreams, what are five material things you want?
Prompt Two
Make a brief list of five changes you would like to make.
Could be emotional, health, financial, or personal.
Be specific. For example:
Emotional: Change attitude or feelings that don’t serve you. Is there something you are having a hard time letting go? List that, or those, if there are more than one.
Rather than good health: Lose weight, change eating habits, drink more water, etc.
Rather than exercise: Be specific about types of movement, etc.
Rather than the broad category of “financial,” consider: Freedom from present money worries, wanting future financial security, etc.
In your wildest dreams, what are five personal things you want?
Prompt Three From Facebook post by Interesting World, April 24, 2025:
Sometimes, the real reason for something isn’t the first one . . . it’s the fifth.
Sakichi Toyoda, founder of Toyota, had a habit.
Whenever something didn’t make sense, he’d pull out a simple tool — not from a toolbox, but from his mind:
The “5 Whys” rule.
It’s exactly what it sounds like. You ask “Why?” — not once, but five times.
Note from Marlene: A fur coat is somewhat of a silly example, but you will get the idea.
Sakichi Toyoda:
Let’s say you want a fur coat.
Ask yourself:
• Why do I want a fur coat?
Because I want to impress people.
• Why do I want to impress people?
Because I want attention.
• Why do I want attention?
Because I feel insecure.
• Why do I feel insecure?
Because I feel stuck — like I’m not growing.
• Why am I not growing?
Because I’m doing something I don’t love.
And suddenly, the coat has nothing to do with warmth or style. It’s about purpose. About identity.
And that fifth “why”? That’s the one that tells the truth.
That’s where you are hiding. And sometimes, that’s where healing begins.
Sakichi Toyoda gave the world more than just cars.
He gave us a method to peel away the layers — until we finally see ourselves clearly.
So next time you’re unsure — don’t just stop at the surface.
