Something a Little Different

Normally, you would be reading a post about speculative fiction or at least a review of a spec-fic book.

Today, however, is MY BIRTHDAY, and I'm going to write about whatever I want. *ducks to avoid flying objects*

I've chronicled my writing journey (or lack of one) before, so I'm not going into that sordid mess again. I'll simply lay out a few things I've learned along the way, good and bad. Hopefully, some of things will resonate with you as well.

1. Fiction-writing is hard work!
2. Getting published is hard work! Or more like a crap shoot. Well, maybe not.
3. Working hard is worth it (I think).
4. Reviewing is way easier than writing, although it is a type of writing. *scratches head*
5. Whoever said making friendships with other writers is important (Randy Ingermanson comes to mind) couldn't have been more right.
6. Terry Whalin was right when he said that fiction writers need to learn how to write nonfiction and get published that way first. How do I know this? Because yesterday, I got a check in the mail from a paid market that bought a devotional of mine. Now, why is that exciting? I don't want to write devotionals. I don't want to write newspaper articles, though I've been paid for one of those. I've even been paid for a book review, though those gigs are few and far between.

I really don't care about the money, realizing that this is more a hobby for me and that I will never make a living off of writing. But I do care that editors out there think my work, whatever form it may come in, is good enough to put in their publications. I care that people know I can meet a deadline and that I have integrity.

I have nothing against nonfiction in general; I read it all the time. But I haven't set about to write it. That's where the most reward has been, however. At least for now.

I pray that God will find me faithful, and that one day, instead of reading this post, you instead will be reading my novel. If not, then I will rest in the knowledge that God will find me faithful.

Happy birthday to me. :)

Chosen of God

Episode 8 of the Light at the Edge of Darkness radio theater is ready for download, this week's episode, "Chosen of God":

Casino owner A.L. Snyder comes of age in the years of the Empire and must find his place in the world.

Click here to download, click here to add this podcast to your Itunes.