Can You Relate?
Susie and a few Springfield Writers’ Guild Pals: Candy Simonson, Marilyn Smith, Donna Barnes
“To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven.” Eccl.8:1 NKJV
Do you ever have cause to wonder what you were thinking? The following is a true story from a few years back. However, it’s not the first or the last such incident in my life!
While this was a Springfield Writers’ Guild critique event, it could well happen with any project! (I will be anxious to hear your stories; I know I am not a lone ranger.)
Following a detailed lesson on editing, our group was given a test with a $50 prize up for grabs. I recognized some of my bad writing habits as I listened intently and took good notes. With a room filled with seasoned writers, I was at best determined not to come in last!
I’ve never felt calmer working on an assignment. Slash, slash! slash-slash-slash! With a steady hand, I worked diligently, removing all unnecessary words that did nothing to contribute to the story. But then something happened, I got caught up in the story. I wanted to know more about the main character, and I wondered how his story would end. I forgot to finish my edit!
“Time is up, put down your pencils.” Oops! Papers were graded quickly, and I was surprised to find I was very close to the winning score. Could I have actually won? I don’t know because I lost my focus.
I learned something that day about editors and proofreaders — I don’t want to be one! I admire their knowledge, skill, and stick-to-itiveness.
I learned something, too, about myself. I need to apply myself to the task at hand, focus more, and pay attention. Finish what I start. Therefore, in reality, I DID WIN THAT DAY—where it counts!
What an honor to be a part of several writing groups, including SWG. If you are a writer or a wanna be, I challenge you to gather with other authors and writers.
Drop me a note with questions or prayer concerns. I’m sending hugs your way,
Susie
Thank you, Susie, for another wonderful blog! It makes me wonder how many times I would have won if I had kept my focus. The most important thing I need to do is to make sure my focus is on the right subject! Thanks again.
Sondra, you are so welcome. You are a great writer. It is exciting to see how God is and will continue to use you as you keep that pen going. And, thank you for prayers.
Thank you, Susie, for another wonderful blog! It makes me wonder how many times I would have won if I had kept my focus. The most important thing I need to do is to make sure my focus is on the right subject! Thanks again.
My sweet lady,
Funny it was through my beautiful editor/ friend that I met you. And it was an instant godly connection. Your friendship was not only instant but felt eternal as though we had always been and will always be.The price of gold could not compare to your worth.I love how you make known that there is a difference between writer and editor.They are both nec.( hand and glove fit.)
Did you see I abbreviated NEC. because it was just too long of a word and I wasn’t even sure how to spell it.
Surely no one wants their errors put in print for the world to see.
Everyone should have a love of great death for their editor.
My sweet lady,
Funny it was through my beautiful editor/ friend that I met you. And it was an instant godly connection. Your friendship was not only instant but felt eternal as though we had always been and will always be.The price of gold could not compare to your worth.I love how you make known that there is a difference between writer and editor.They are both nec.( hand and glove fit.)
Did you see I abbreviated NEC. because it was just too long of a word and I wasn’t even sure how to spell it.
Surely no one wants their errors put in print for the world to see.
Everyone should have a love of great death for their editor.
Thanks, Donna, for your sweet reply. Certainly the feelings are mutual. When God connects hearts, He does it well! You are a great writer yourself; I have learned much from you. I value your friendship and your opinions.
PS Not sure why everyone’s post is duplicated… oh, well! I’m looking forward to your next great work.