I am thankful for a lot of things this Thanksgiving, but it came and went so fast that my head spun. It's the Sunday afterward, heading into Dec, and Christmas. I've been so glad that I made it and could enjoy another holiday with my family. I was sick most of the year and in the hospital five different times.
I learned a lesson as a writer. PACE YOURSELF, I had become over-baked in my writing and I burnt up early in 2013. I had to stop and make some clear choices about where I was headed.
Was getting a book close to my heart published, worth the risk of continued personal verbal abuse in the editing process? I think not and when I reflect, I realize what happened. I was so eager that I overlooked some vital elements to book publishing and communication.
If you are with someone who isn't an encourager and you begin to second guess yourself as a writer then it's time to change direction, even if it means that you need to wipe your feet and find another home for your project. I want to make it clear that I'm not a person who needs constant attention and hand holding but neither do I need to be raked over burning coals and line up for the whipping post or even roll over for others. We as writers have plenty of that from the world.Yes, I am thick skinned but not to the point of being skinned. That's where I put my foot down and that's where we all need to make better choices.
The experience hurt deeply, I trusted this person, but attack on a personal level is never right. I did learn and I am praising the Lord for this experience. It was painful and humbling. I had to backtrack and the stress did land me in the hospital. I took it hard and personally but I'm a better writer and person for it now so I'm full of Joy going into the Christmas Season. I feel free to write again and I feel free to stick my tongue out to catch snowflakes. Oh...did I mention I wrote another novel in July? It's called The Christmas Needle. I had a blast doing the research for it, a historical romance.
I have a great schedule for book signing in December. They will be on Military Bases and a Coffee Shop in Highlands Ranch, Colorado. Look for the schedule on my website and Facebook. www.pauletteharris.com
May the Magic and Love of Christ be with each of you wonderful writers this Christmas and may you be richly blessed. Take the time with Jesus at the waterfalls of life and be refreshed as you move into the most wonderful time of the year. Hugs in Christ.
Thankful for a Thanksgiving and Free to move through the Holidays.