As I mentioned last week, the first draft of my first nonfiction book for adults is now done. Today I began going back in to tweak it for grammar, spelling, more thoughts, etc. Then it will make its way to my editor. I want to take my time with the 2nd revision, but also am excited about the editing process.
As I’ve begun reviewing what I wrote, I find myself having fear come up about being judged. More than 85% of the people in the world want to write a book, but many don’t. I think often times it is fear that holds them back. As I’ve been writing this book the last 11 months I find myself getting stronger in my courage and my truth. My story may not resonate with everyone- that would be silly to even think that it would- but it may help just one person. I remind myself to speak my truth not only for myself, but in hopes it will help that one person.
I also have a reminder on my desk next to my laptop, where I write that reminds me about my truth. Years ago when I decided to pursue writing, I joined a woman’s writing group. One of the exercises we did at one of our gatherings was to write a word (or two) that resonated with us. My Truth came to me right away. I knew it because my heart raced and tears filled my eyes immediately.
I was lead to living my truth after watching my 9-year old lab, Cassie live eight months with terminal bone cancer. The joy I saw in her sweet face each day despite her impending death was a jolt to my own mortality. We never know how long we each have on this earth, right? How often we spend it struggling and living with not much joy. I didn’t want that- I wanted to live my life in my own way, and my own joy.
My stone reminds me of that when I lose my way… or today, just as I finished working on my manuscript for the day, Frankie perked her head up and looked directly into my eyes. I think it was her way of saying, “Keep on going, Mom. You can do it.”
Others stones in my collection of words are sentimental, just be, happy, joy, and reflect. I also have the date 11-08 on a stone. That was the day I held my first published children’s book in my hands. I especially like the word sentimental too. For so many years I thought I was werid for getting so mushy over things others didn’t. But being sentimental, I’ve come to realize, is a gift. I wouldn’t want to be any other way.
Living in a world full of maddening view points can be scary when one is trying to live their own truth. But I’ve come to believe more and more each day that if more of us did just that what a profound and positive affect it would have on the world.
What is your word that resonates with you?