Literary agent Don Pape joins me for a conversation about a lifetime in the publishing industry, the sacred work of shaping stories, and how creativity shows up in both the books we write and the ordinary rhythms of our everyday lives.

Don shares what it really looks like to walk alongside an author as they steward their message from a rough draft to a published work. We explore the tension between the "striving" of the industry and the "stewarding" of a creative calling, and why art is ultimately an invitation to see God's love in the world around us.

Don also shares a deeply personal "thin place" experience: simple pieces of artwork made by his granddaughters—pieces that have become a doorway into prayer, presence, and love. Whether you're an aspiring author or simply someone looking to reconnect with the joy of creating, this conversation is an invitation to trust the process.

Resources & Links

• Pape Commons

• Order: Art Is How God Loves Us

• Leave a review of the book on Amazon and Goodreads

• Share your story: We are doing a call for guest-post submissions on Substack. You can learn more and submit your own essay about a time art opened a door for you by visiting: artistsforjoy.org/artsopendoor

I would love to hear about the works of art that have become thin places in your own life. You can share them by submitting to our guest post series via the link above.