Although I seem to be good at figuring other people out, it’s a little crazy how many times in my life I have been wrong about myself.

I once thought this was a hobby. Silly me. I tried to make it into one so many times. I tried for years to get a ‘real’ job and build a ‘real’ career. I found things that I am good at and that I can make a lot of money doing. Doing them is how I discovered that it isn’t about the money. It is about the need, the passion, and the love.

I once thought I was a loner, or should I simply say alone. I was wrong. So many people have stepped in, encouraged me, and helped me along my way. By comparison, very few have tried to knock me down or deride what I chose to do, what I have to do. I have been one of those few more times than I can count.

I once thought I hated people. I came to realize that I love them as individuals with all their differences, bad and good. They give me so much to write and so much to discover. Endless pools of fascinating material.

I used to wonder if I would ever stop and, even in moments of great frustration, I never have. I don’t wonder anymore. Rejections build up alongside the rare and treasured acceptance. I see in those rejections a trend of growing encouragement and helpful feedback. It fans the flames of what was always a bonfire.

Will I ever succeed as an author? I don’t know. Looking back on my life so far, it feels like I already have.

No matter where you are in your own journey as a writer, you are never alone. There are so many others just like you. Always remember, it is about the need, the passion, and the love.

Oh! And the cats. Never forget the cats. J

Happy writing!