What's Been Goin?

Have you ever done something that was bigger than yourself? You dive in to this Thing that’s calling out saying, ’hey, hey, you! Will you take this huge leap into the unknown, knowing it contains no guarantee of success for You but will help Others?’

That’s what sits embedded at the root of writing for me. It’s an act of faith, almost as if it were an act of breathing. It’s *so hard* to write the actual *good story*… and the writing is the easiest part.
Because after the sloughing off of pride, and planning, and pushing characters into a new universe and carving them into heroes, that’s when the beautiful process of articulation becomes tangible. And after the writing, well it’s all uphill in the snow pulling a broken wheeled wagon to its rightful destination for readers to meet.

I go back and read the books I have written and see how they were not just “my ideas” and “my words” but inspired by Something Much Greater. They, hopefully, point toward light. They draw out valor and hope and courage. Don’t your teens — don’t you — deserve to read books like that?
**
And even if you don’t really care about me or even like me, something to consider… bookstores which carry those books need your attention. Show up to support local people and their passions, because they are within your circle of influence. Small ripples of support travel great distances.
**
So save the date, next Saturday, April 29. 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. It’s Independent Bookstore Day. Intermission Bookshop in Downtown Brownwood has welcomed me in for a book signing and has THREE of my Alliance series books available. Make a plan to visit. Can’t wait to see you there.

---

April 14-15th I had the pleasure of attending a Mini Comic Con and leading a breakout session on “The Big Bad Evil Guy: Is It You?” The students were so engaged and meeting new readers is always an exciting experience. Books! Games! Merch! Oh my!

**
So -- what's been going on with you? How's that courage holding up for you? It doesn't always look like big, bold steps, and often doesn't feel like progress. But courage includes showing up, taking one step forward at a time, consistent, persistent, patient, enduring.

Don't forget the Alliance motto:
Be powerful.
Be consistent.
Never quit.
Finish the mission.

---