IWSG March 2014--Letting Go and Unfurling Your Wings

Yesterday I came up with an amazing post title and topic for today. Unfortunately, I was driving around town all day and by the time I sat down to write this post I couldn't remember what it was. So, I'm just going to tell you how I'm doing today.

Pretty darn good.

2014 has been an amazing writing year for me so far and I think I know why.

I finally let go. I mean REALLY let go. Various things in my past no longer hold me back. Whether it was hurtful words from loved ones, professional misunderstandings, impatience with myself, whatever insecurities I suffered through in 2013. They are in the past and I've let them go.

It's the most wonderful feeling ever. After almost a year of struggling to write anything and putting on a happy face in spite of it, I'm full of joy in my writing.

I have--

• One draft complete and waiting for revisions 
• One draft that has been through 3 revisions already this year
• Multiple story ideas waiting to be written
• My health
• Time during the day to write/revise/edit
• A wonderful group of beta and critique partners

Yesterday one new beta reader sent me a lovely email. Here's one highlight from that email (the rest would have spoilers!).

"I also loved the multiple POVs. The only other books that I have read that transitions between the characters as well as you did are the Rick Riordan Lost Hero books...One last thing, I don't know much about the writing process, but I am an avid, picky reader and know a great book when I read one. This one falls into that category. Two of my favorite authors are R.A. Salvatore and Elaine Cunningham. They both write Forgotten Realms novels. On the back of one of her books is a short blurb from Salvatore that describes her style of writing as lyrical. When I read your work, that always comes to mind. Its lyrical and flowing. And I can't wait to add this one to my book collection."

Feel good? By the hearth, yes!

Then I had a text conversation last night: 
6:30 PM
L-Ugh!!!! I never should have started your book! I will  never be able to sleep tonight. I should have started it next week during my spring break.

Me-LOL, so sorry.

L-I don't think you are. You know how helpless I am once I start a good book, and so far this has me hook line and sinker! So, my hats off to you because I haven't started a book that I just had to keep reading in a long time.

9:15 PM
L-half way done. Maybe I should just read the last chapter and go to bed. (she always reads the last chapter first but promised she'd not do that so she could make comments and critiques for me)

Me-I'm shocked you're still awake!

L-I told you I was obsessed with your book. I have to keep reminding myself to leave comments.

Me-So I'm not crazy? Is this the one?

L-This book is fabulous, just enough mystery and love... (You have to know this is my best friend who has always been honest with me. She's even shot down complete story ideas because they were stupid or cliche)


Why do I think these two things are so wonderful? Other than the obvious?

Because it's the proof that I've let go of those insecurities, opened my heart and soul and poured it into my writing.

This is a GOOD thing.

Final thought I found on Facebook this morning:

“I have come to accept the feeling of not knowing where I am going, and I have trained myself to love it. Because it is only when we are suspended in mid-air with no landing in sight, that we force our wings to unravel and alas begin our flight. And as we fly, we still may not know where we are going to. But the miracle is in the unfolding of the wings. You may not know where you're going, but you know that so long as you spread your wings, the winds will carry you.”
― C. JoyBell C

Getting published isn't the success of the story. It's unfolding our wings and taking the chance. The journey itself is more important than the end goal because once we get there we will need the courage to lift off and do it again. And again.

Here's to unfolding our wings and taking flight! Have a wonderful Wednesday! 

Purpose of IWSG: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!

Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time. I'm currently #116.