Pass it on

When I first started to get serious about writing, one of the things I had to do was learn my craft. I had all these ideas but there is a technique to crafting a good story. I had to learn POV, active versus passive, dialogue tags, etc. I had to learn how to take critiques that I wouldn't always like.

Let's face it, writing isn't for sissies. It's a hard business.


It's also a solitary business for the most part. The characters in my head don't count *cough* (though they think they do). We live in our own heads to write most of the time.

Not to be corny, but you have to have friends. Friends you can trust and work with. Friends who stick by you even if the word count gets sparse or the going gets tough.

I'm so very very lucky.

When I was first getting serious, a very generous woman by the name of Mary Stella gave of herself to me and several others. She helped craft make a bit more sense. She also, along with several others and I, formed a small group where we could share about writing. The group was/is literally a godsend. It remains a great place to share about the ups and downs of writing.

Several people from that group and I are critique partners. Thank goodness for them. Melissa, Maureen, Corinne, Cindy. They are awesome. They read and give great feedback. We share goal counts and again, the ups and downs of writing.

I'm not sure I'd be where I am, doing what I love, were it not for the help of Mary, Melissa, Maureen, Corinne, Cindy, Jenn, and Karen. I know it wouldn't have been as much fun to get there.

One thing I have really tried to do lately is pass it on. I judge unpublished contests and try and give the best feedback I can. I became secretary to Passionate Ink, a chapter that has given me a lot of camaraderie.

I'd encourage you today to find that group that you can be you with. And also pass along your experience. Because you never know when it will hit home for someone.

Mechele Armstrong aka Lany of Melany Logen
http://www.mechelearmstrong.com
http://www.melanylogen.com