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| Insecure Writers Support Group Blog Hop |
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November 5 Question
When you began writing, what did you imagine your life as a writer would be like? Were you right, or has this experience presented you with some surprises along the way?
When I began writing in the second grade, I wrote for the joy of dreaming up stories and sharing them with classmates. I was rewarded with watching my friends smile as they read.
Fast forward to when we sold our business, and I finally had the opportunity to write the stories I had waited 40 years to share. I always knew I was meant to be a writer.
After selling our flower shop, I put on my writer's hat and boldly visited the editor of my local newspaper to offer ideas for articles I could submit to the paper. To my surprise, he actually published my first submission and then many more. I was thrilled when I saw my first byline. I learned so much from Richard. He was a great editor. I did get a bit miffed when he cut a portion of my article to make space for an ad. But that's the business end of it. He needed ads to keep the paper going.
When we decided to RV full-time, I began penning travel stories for RV magazines. I was surprised when the magazines published my photos that accompanied my articles. Plus, I was paid to visit places I enjoyed!
After eight years of writing nonfiction, I returned to fiction, hoping to rediscover the joy I felt as a seven-year-old. Stories that had lived in my mind for years poured onto the page—short stories, cozy mysteries. I was thrilled to be part of a supportive group of writers who encouraged me along the way. We met every Friday at the Koffee Kuppe in our hometown, sharing ideas and laughter. The best part? All four of us eventually became published authors.
When my first book was accepted and published, I was surprised not to receive a royalty check for nearly a year. I believe it was an oversight on the publisher’s part—she paid me promptly when I brought it up. Looking back, I realize I was too inexperienced to speak up sooner. I’ve since learned how many dishonest people prey on writers, promising to make their books #1 bestsellers on Amazon, only to take their money and disappear. Be aware.
I believe the biggest surprise I had in this writing business was the generosity and support of fellow authors. I was in the retail business for 19+ years. We had competitors, but we didn't help each other out like authors did. I wrote cozy mysteries, and fellow mystery writers would give advice to this newbie. Just like the amazing members of IWSG offer their wisdom and support to fellow writers.
As an author, the last and best surprise is how I have made friends throughout the world. This could never have happened if I hadn't put myself out there as an author. I haven't met all the authors/writers face-to-face, and yet, they are some of my best friends.
Writing has enriched my life, offering experiences I never expected. I am grateful that I can claim authorship at this time in my life, allowing me to have connections with writers, to have a purpose for my life, and to learn something new every day.
A heartfelt thank-you to all the volunteers at IWSG who keep this incredible community thriving!
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Please leave a comment below about the surprises you have had during your writing career.
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| J.Q. Rose, Author |
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