I've been feeling overwhelmed with gratitude from those in my writing community, and have been trying to figure out how to eloquently put that into words. I haven't come up with anything fancy, so I figured I'd just write it down. Over the last few years, I have worked on connecting with people in the writing community, and I'm lucky to have met so many great individuals. And I'm not just talking about writers (though they rock!). My community consists of fellow writers, but also the editors, agents, publishers, and especially the readers, who have offered me advice or support. These are great people.
I realized just how true this is over the last few months. I've had some feedback from beta readers, critique group members, author friends, my new editor and my new agent. And though I don't have much to offer yet, I do what I can to help support my writing friends and volunteer at events. I am deeply grateful that all these fantastic people have taken the time to help me as a writer and a storyteller. Someday, I hope to pay it forward and assist others in my shoes.
My takeaway from this - appreciate those who are willing to help you. And also, work on surrounding yourself with people that can help you grow as a person and a writer. Writing might be something I do by myself, but that's not where the process ends. If I had not started volunteering at writing events, attending critique groups, and other activities that put myself out there, I would not have met these people.
