Good Friends and Family…

Well, I didn’t place in the Accentuate Short Story Contest…this time.  I made the finals, so I am happy to have shown improvement after my first entry.  Michelle Devon (Michy), who runs the contests and the forum, said a couple judges liked my story, but my dialogue was weak.

I can learn to write good dialogue, right?  Of course I can.  I learned a long time ago that I can do anything I set my mind to.  Although some things may take longer than others.

I emailed Michy at the tail end of my self pity party and asked her if a mediocre writer could learn to be a good writer.  Some people are born with a natural talent to write. Hehehe…I thought I was one of those people until I started learning what makes a good writer.

Okay, so my ego took a blow.  It wasn’t the first time. I’ve survived each and every other time too.  Not only did I survive, but I picked myself up and became a little better for it.

Michy gave me hope, too.  She told me that any person with a passion to write can learn to become a good writer.  I just have to want it badly enough.

I want it badly.

Good Friends

Rissa Watkins, a very good friend of mine, won the contest.  I am happy to say I was bouncing in my seat when I read that she had won first place before I allowed myself to wallow in self pity.  The tears of joy for her success started before the tears of disappointment.

She is going to be published in the anthology book that is set to come out next year.  Not only will she be published, but her name will be on the front cover for all the world to see.

Her story was incredible, and very close to her heart.  She deserved to win, although she didn’t think she had a chance. 

I think she’s still in shock…hehehe.

Rissa and I started entering these contests together.  We have supported each other and cheered each other on every step of the way. 

You don’t find friends like that very often.  At least, I don’t.  Especially when you consider the fact that technically we were competing against each other.  But it never felt that way.

Even though Rissa and I have never met in person, and even though I don’t hand out the title of “friend” very often, I can honestly say that she is one of the dearest friends I have in my life.  I am incredibly happy for her success.

And I know that we’ll be cheering each other on for the next contest.

Good Family

After the winners were announced last night, I had myself a little pity party.  Just a little one.  I gave the negative voices in my head about two hours to tell me I’d never make it as a writer and that I’d never be good enough.

Bah!

Then I poured myself a small glass of Bailey’s, went out to the patio and called my momma.   She cheered me up, as always.  And she encouraged me, as always. 

It’s good to have people in your life you can count on.

She told me to not give up, that she knew someday she would be holding a book that I had written.  She also said she’s told other people that they would someday see a book published that I had written.

We laughed when I told her I hoped she wasn’t telling any old people that since it may take awhile. 

Rissa…if you’re reading this…Mom was thrilled and excited you had won.  She’s very happy for you.

So, I’m (almost) ready to get going on my next entry, or entries.  I may submit more than one this time.  I would like to wait until I receive my critique from Michy on my last entry so I can see how to improve my writing.

You see, I’m going to learn how to be a good writer.  And I will be published some day.

After all, I have to make an honest woman out of my mother.

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Tags: Accentuate, book, contest, publish, short story, write, writer, writing

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