Posts in Series for Annette McCleave
It’s easy sometimes to get caught in the negative currents of life. The undertow can suck you right out to sea if you’re not paying attention. 
But lately I’ve been struck by how lucky I am. Struggling to become a published writer is like many things you do for yourself–it can be grueling and lonely. So when someone who has absolutely nothing to gain helps you along the way, it’s a real treasure.
I can honestly say that if it were not for those helping hands, I’d never have made it this far. Some of them I can put a name or a face to, some I can’t. Who are they? The women of my chapter who’ve applauded my every advance, no matter how small. The contest judges who’ve clearly spent hours pouring over my entries, marking up my pages with examples and writing reams of comments (both good and not so good). Those people who’ve taken late night pathetic emails from me and responded with “of course you’ll get published, I can’t believe you’re not already”. Wonderful people who’ve reached out and invited me to join a new loop. Writers willing to give their time and energy to teach a workshop, or critique a synopsis or just share their experiences. Critique partners that have squeezed reading hundreds of pages of my writing in between the things that are really important in their lives. People who’ve blogged or emailed about painful mistakes or challenges they’ve faced, so I could learn. The on-line buddy who started it all with a simple “I hope this won’t be the last time I talk with you”.
These same people help others as often and as unstintingly as they’ve helped me, and were it not for them, the world would be a much colder, harsher place. Thanks to all the generous people out there. For whomever you’ve helped along the way.
Beautifully said, Annette. I know I couldn’t have done it without the help of special people along the wayl
by Cheyenne McCray April 23rd, 2005 at 8:48 amNice to see you here again, Annette.:smile:
All the little things that have helped you–and all of us–along our paths are so easy to forget. Often times we get stuck in the trap of how hard life is, and forget about the treasures of our friends. Those we know and those out there just looking after us.
Thanks for making me take the time to reflect on what is important to me, and to send a silent thank you to everyone who has helped along the way.:grin:
I have a first sale, but I’m still trying to get there. The career, you know. I have so much to learn still, and this sisterhood of writers has already taught me so much.:grin:
by Renee Luke April 23rd, 2005 at 8:54 amOh, I love this post! You’re right about the negative currents. It’s important to take the time and really appreciate the positives. Thank you for the much needed reminder.
by SylviaA very nice reminder. Well said.
by HelenKay April 23rd, 2005 at 3:13 pmBrava! I am learning to appreciate the positives in this business instead of dwelling on the (sometimes perceived) negatives. Thank you for your eloquently written piece.
by Evangeline April 23rd, 2005 at 11:15 pmAnnette - what a great post! I’ve had pretty much the same experience as you. Despite all the bad stuff that happens, you’re right, there are a lot more good things to outweigh them. And yes, you WILL get published!!:grin:
by Teresa April 24th, 2005 at 7:35 am