Reach down and lift someone up

by Michele Boy | April 25, 2024

I got out of my comfort zone last week and attended a publishing conference in Colorado Springs. I had anxiety going in wondering what it would be like. My fears fell apart and I was pleasantly surprised and relieved to have made the journey. 
I learned a tremendous amount. When I came home I took a risk and emailed the publisher. I was pleased with the results. Okay, very excited.  A dream is becoming more of a reality. We worked out a deal to publish two books of mine, one mostly written, the other I am just beginning. 
It’s easy for me to sit thinking about what I want to do. It takes courage to pursue it. What if I am rejected? What if it’s not that good? What if no one buys it? It’s a whole new set of what ifs waiting around each corner. It can overwhelm me. 
During the conference there were many signs to me that I was in the right place. I enjoyed the people and the atmosphere. 
On the first day of the conference I walked by a roomful of men in suits and ties staring at a PowerPoint presentation. I got nervous wondering if this was the conference I signed up for. Nothing against them it just clearly wasn’t my vibe. The first sign of discomfort,  I was ready to run away. I guess that doesn't say much for my strength of fortitude. lol
I was relieved to find the room with people who were dressed more casually and relaxed. 
Throughout the entire conference the thing I appreciated most was the presenter’s attitude. She was not condemning of anyone just aware of what was for her and what wasn’t. 
I loved it. Often the world seems so polarizing. If you don’t think this was, get away from me. Or you are wrong I am right and I want nothing to do with you. These attitudes don’t bring us together, they push us further apart. 
Can you do that? Separate out what is meant for you and what isn’t? Too often we push for our way, our position. 
The people I have learned the most from had completely different views than mine. I learned a ton from walking by the men in suits that day. I saw I was clearly on the right path for me. 
So it is time to take more risks. Today, Wednesday, is World Book Day. I am excited that next year at this time I may have my own bucket list book published.  
This past week I bought two books - one a book of short stories and poems. Another a memoir.  Both the genres I am looking to publish in. 
I think one key to furthering your dreams is to support others along the way. 
The presenter at the conference said a number of things that hit me. One of them was collaboration. In truth writing is mostly a solo act. But collaborating with an editor, with readers, and helping others find their path seems to be more complete than doing it alone. 
 Do you need a hand? I think we all forget that. We need each other. 
What stops you? Sometimes friends get it wrong. Sometimes there is rejection. Sometimes people just don’t understand or we think they are too busy. I hope I am not so busy I can’t stop to help someone. 
Maybe you are afraid. But look around you. Someone could use your support, your friendship. And if you are willing to get a little vulnerable, maybe you could use theirs too.
There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up.  -John Holmes