When asked in a casual conversation what I did for a living, I replied, “I am an author”. I had just published my first book, and I admit that I felt a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction in hearing myself say the words. The reply however, was not what I expected. The words, “Oh, living the easy life. It must nice to just work when you feel like it, ” rang out in my ears like a jack-hammer. I thought to myself, “Are you serious”? I thought about a quote I once read: “It is only when you open your veins and bleed onto the page a little that you establish contact with your reader…” (from “Confessions of a Story Writer” by Paul Gallico, author of “The Poseidon Adventure” and “Lou Gehrig: Pride of the Yankees”)
When an author writes, they are exposing a part of themselves to the world. One never knows what kind of reviews (if any at all) their work will receive. What if people hate it? Or even worse, what if no one ever reads it at all? There is an endless list of fears (both real and imagined) that can fill an authors head.
So what does an author do to overcome those fears and put the pen to the paper? Some do nothing, and those words stay locked up inside forever. I chose to “do it afraid”. I felt like if I tried to keep those words inside, my head would explode. So I just started writing. To change Mr. Gallico’s words slightly, I opened my heart and let it bleed onto the pages.
Most of the authors I know work in that way. They write because they love it. They write the words that are in their hearts and minds. It is not an easy way to make a living. In fact, most authors work at other jobs to pay their bills, at least in the beginning. But it is a great reward to see the fruit of your labors in print, especially if others are sharing it by spreading the word about it.
Which brings me to this week’s #FridayForwards, and a message to all the authors out there: Keep writing, FEARLESSLY! And when you find something you enjoy, PLEASE SHARE IT!
The Wolf of Tebron by C.S. Laskin. C.S. Lakin’s first novel in The Gates of Heaven series is about the journey of Joran in his quest to find his wife. Along the way, he is joined by a huge wolf, Ruyah, who soon becomes Joran’s companion, friend and teacher. It’s written in classic fairytale style, where magic, fantasy, and the forces of good and evil abound. Rich in vibrant language, adventure, personification, and more, this allegory offers the reader more than just a thrilling story. As Lakin says, “Joran’s journey inspires and encourages readers to focus on our deep purpose and meaning in life.”
The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis. A classic masterpiece of religious satire that entertains readers with its sly and ironic portrayal of human life and foibles from the vantage point of Screwtape, a highly placed assistant to “Our Father Below.” At once wildly comic, deadly serious, and strikingly original, The Screwtape Letters is the most engaging account of temptation—and triumph over it—ever written.
Faith, Hope & Miracles by Amber Leggette-Aldrich. A tragic snowmobile accident that resulted in the death of 8 year old Christian Aldrich is just the beginning. Miraculously revived over 40 minutes later, there was still little reason to believe that this child would survive, let alone fully recover. What Christian describes about his experience with death and heaven has had a profound impact on many. Faith, Hope & Miracles is a true story about a family’s 18 month journey through tragedy and blessings. It is a story of hope and encouragement. Anyone who has lost a loved one, suffered in agonizing pain, or felt desperate and alone will appreciate this straightforward account which describes in detail what Christian and his family went through, and the true miracles they witnessed.
Have a great weekend and God bless! – Amber
#FridayForwards #TBSU #Authors #Books
Thanks for this encouragement Amber. It is hard to expose your truths sometimes only to have them criticized.
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That is so true Joseph. But I have found it helpful at times in spite of the painfulness. I look at criticism as a chance to grow, even if only in terms of forgiveness and grace. Someone once said that it builds character. If that’s true, then I must have a lot of character by now, lol. Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you have a wonderful and productive weekend! God bless, Amber
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