Reading back over the recent Ladies of Suspense posts, I came across Ramona Richards’ post about awards and such. It made me think of something I learned recently.
I have to admit, I entered the Rita. Nothing. I entered the Booksellers Best Award. Nothing. I entered ACFW’s Book of the Year Award. Nada. I entered a couple of others. Nothing. I can honestly say I was happy for those who finaled or won, however, I’m big enough to admit, I would give a sigh and say, “Hm, so what was wrong with my books?” Not that I was whining…much. Still, it made me wonder. It affected me to the point that I was questioning my writing, thinking things like, okay, so my books aren’t good enough, what redeeming qualities does my editor see that apparently no one else does, etc.
Then I really had to have a conversation with God about the reason I was writing. Like God generally does, He set me straight. All in all, He once again reminded me that HE is in control of my writing, my career, and my books. And all of the contest wins and losses. Once I accepted that—AGAIN (I went through all that angst before I was published), I came to a peaceful conclusion that as long as I was writing for Him, nothing else mattered…much. LOL. And then I got the call that I finaled in the Maggie Contest. Of course I was excited and thrilled. And laughing at the way the Lord teaches us lessons. Hopefully I learned it well enough not to need a repeat. Has God taught you anything about your writing in the last few weeks? If so, I’d love to hear about it!
Christian Romance Authors with Fictionalized Tales of Intriguing Edginess
6 comments:
The industry is so wide and God is so all-knowing, that it's hard to understand any of the' why/why not's.
I had to laugh at how you said you learned that lesson AGAIN. Oh, how I wish I could learn them well enough the first time, too.
I do so agree that God has a funny sense of timing for us. And perfect timing for Him. How often he blesses us when we feel the least deserving.
Lynette, boy do I understand the contest nail-biting. I didn't start entering contests until I sold to Harlequin. It was much easier back when I didn't even know or care to worry LOL
As I was reading your post today, I kept thinking, isn't Lynette a Maggie finalist? Then I got to the part where you mentioned being in the running! Congrats, Lynette!
Wish you could make the Moonlight and Magnolias Conference this year! It's always a great weekend and the GRW members are the best! We'll miss you!
Lynette, I completely understand the angst and the lesson. One I've had to repeated learn. I constantly have to remind myself, I write for God's glory, not my own.
Take care.
LOL here. Glad to know I'm in such good company! Thanks for your sweet comments. And Debby, I think I am coming for the M&M conference. I'm going to do my best to work it out. Thanks!
I used to complain years ago about having to go to work every day. And I do mean complain, until one day God told me that He is allowing me to go to work, and that when He wants me home, my husband's salary would meet our needs. I've never forgotten it. (Now I'm home with disabilities and wish I could work!)
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