Sunday, August 24, 2014

Do you have it in you?

I am a risk taker, a cautious risk taker. I often ask for forgiveness instead of permission. Mama always said the worst that can happen is someone will say NO. So move on. Try again.

Good advice, since NO is usually not the end for me, but only a detour.

It's always been that way with my writing. I usually take a different approach than most writers to themed calls for submissions. For example, my published story in Chicken Soup Food and Love is about the bad boy I met up with after so many years. That bad boy taunted me until I got another taste of him. "He" was a piece of apple walnut cake. I then wrapped that story around my late friend who'd introduced me to that delight. My "love" story was not about romantic love, but about the love of friendship, a completely different kind of love story.



I recently got news from Chicken Soup that this particular book, published in 2011, has been amended a little bit, and will be used as an incentive for PBS donors during the month of August fund drive. To think, my story is still travelling, all because I took a chance.

Today I entered another Love Story contest and took a completely different approach, a long shot, but one I know for a fact will grab an editor's attention. I am prepared for possible rejection, but that won't stop me. I am hopeful that my novel approach may pay off with publication or a contest win. If not, it is simply a stop along the way, and I am convinced that one day this story will find a home.

Do you believe in your writing? Your worth? Your self? It is imperative.

9 comments:

Susan said...

Hi Linda...

Love your determination and perseverance.

Well, I believe in my writing. Sure.

And I believe in my worth as a writer.

I believe in myself.

It's the freelancing arena that gives me fits. If I stop to think of how competitive it is, it gives me the willies.

You are a good inspiration, though. Susan

Sioux Roslawski said...

Congratulations! Does that mean that during one of their "drive" times--when they're driven to ask for donations--that your book will be offered?

If so, that is a time I WILL tune in and listen to their "commercials" as I hoot and holler about your book...your story...your writing.

As far as answering your question. Sometimes. Most of the time. Occasionally. It all depends on what I'm working on.

Pat Wahler said...

Awesome, Linda! We must keep plugging away, no doubt about it.

Pat
Critter Alley

Connie said...

This is so true! Sometimes a different perspective or twist on a theme turns out to be just what an editor is searching for! That is exciting that the book is going to be used as a PBS incentive!

Lynn said...

How fun that your story will be out again! I've read all your previous posts that I have missed for quite a while now. When I read about your shingles (poor baby as I understand) and hope your case leaves as quickly as mine. What a sweet pic of your granddaughter and great grandson... if everything was perfect, no one would learn a thing... but I do hope his colic goes away soon! Sending love your way.

Bookie said...

It isn't always money we need from our writing, is it? Nice you have another writing perk! We need them all!

Val said...

Glad your story got another go-round!

I believe in my writing. Because I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and doggone it, I like me.

River said...

Apple walnut cake?
Oh yum!

Cathy C. Hall said...

Amen to that, Linda! And congrats on the CS book coming 'round again!