How Bad Do You Want To Be In This Anthology?
Little did I know when Karen Helene Walker asked me that question that it would open doors for me to another level of writing and bring me closer to my dream.
To say I was stunned when Karen asked me this question is an understatement. She was referring to the deficiencies in my submitted piece. Deficiencies only a professional editor, award-winning writer, and teacher like Mark David Gerson could see, which meant extensive revising for me.
My heart beat like a snare drum as I counted the cost. I was writing in NaNoWriMo, taking three writing classes, caring for two people who are dear to me, fulfilling concert obligations and working on the manuscript I hope to submit before the end of this year. In other words, my plate was overloaded.
Did I have the time? Should I forget I said yes and move on to something else? These two questions went through my mind. I consider my word to be more valuable than any currency in the world, and the fact that I had given Karen my word is what grounded me and kept me from saying, sorry, I have no time. Forget it.
Today, my joy lies in not only being one of the writers among the outstanding writers in Still Me… After All These Years, but more so from what I have gained by working with Mark David Gerson, the editor of this anthology.
Still Me…After All These Years is a challenging book. Every essay challenges you to lay self-pity aside and stop thinking about what you cannot do and do it. When I look at my copy, I hear it knocking on my door, encouraging me to keep moving beyond my self-imposed boundaries and to walk out on waters that will take me higher than I can imagine.
As MF Sanborn says in her essay, A Lesson in Trust, out of the anthology, Still Me…After All These Years.
I lean into life, curious and unafraid.
I wish all of you a peaceful weekend and be safe.
Shalom aleichem,
Pat Garcia
Pat, this book does indeed make one realize they need to keep moving forward no matter their age. Thanks so much for being a part of the tour and for your contribution to the book.
Mason
MC Book Tours
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Pat, I had no idea what I triggered when I asked what I thought was a simple question, but I’m so grateful it spurred you to this new place. And I totally understand what it means to work with Mark David. He’s an extremely gifted editor/coach and writer in his own right. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your willingness to keep going with this and for keeping your word.
Many many blessings to you
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I’m glad you decided to stick with it so your essay could be a part of this anthology. I think all of us who participated gained from the experience.
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Congratulations Pat for moving forward and working to tell your story. You are such an incredible dynamo, and I’m so proud of you. Keep holding your head high! Hugs!
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Glad you said yes, Pat. Still Me After All These Years wouldn’t be the same without your story.
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I’m so glad I could be part of your journey toward realizing your dreams! Write on!!
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