Howdy!
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and has come much faster than I could have imagined. Where has this year gone?
With the coming holiday, I find myself reminded of how thankful I am for so many things. Family. Friends. A wonderful writing community like this one, filled with people of faith who share the dream of being published. Authors who are published, and are thankful for the many changes in the writing world since the early nineties. The wealth of research opportunities online. The ability to keep in touch with each other for support and camaraderie, with just the flick of a few keys. The evolution in publishing, which gives everyone more options for reaching readers.
And while I’m thinking of all of things I am grateful for in my writing life, I find myself reminded that I would not have made my first sale without the generosity of contest judges giving me advice and teaching me some hard lessons about where I needed to improve. Teaching me that being thin-skinned about that advice would get me nowhere, while striving for an open mind and a willing, humble spirit would help me go much farther in my quest. And then there were all of the hardworking contest coordinators. The people who worked tirelessly to put on conferences, or who generously gave writing workshops to share their knowledge. The critique partners. The published friends who encouraged me during the years when I imagined that I would never be good enough for a first sale. Who are the people you are thankful for?
With so much to be thankful for, I am reminded that I also need to do my part, and make sure I’m doing enough to give back to the writing community. And I hope that, wherever you are in your writing journey, you feel the same. So, in the coming years, when ACFW or your local writer group asks for a volunteer, step up to help. Maybe it isn’t possible right now, if you are overwhelmed by your day job, your family, and other commitments. But someday. Not only will you be helping others, but you will be making connections with other writers, forming friendships, and become a greater part of this wonderful community.
Best wishes to all of you for a wonderful Thanksgiving and Christmas, and best wishes to all of you with your writing in the coming year!
Blessings,
Roxanne Rustand
USA Today Bestselling author Roxanne Rustand has written thirty-five novels, and enjoy writing for Harlequin Love inspired as well as the indie market. An Aspen Creek Christmas is a December, 2016 Love Inspired release. You can find her at www.facebook.com/roxanne.rustand and www.roxannerustand.com.