Writers Have Big..... HEARTS!

First of all, I'd like to thank Kristina Riggle for her wonderful interview. Kris - You're an inspiration to writers everywhere. Your time and thoughtful answers are greatly appreciated. The ripple effect of your inspired words will manifest over time. There is no way to measure the gratitude or count the creative ideas you've sparked in the minds of others. I thank you and wish you the greatest success with Real Life & Liars and all your upcoming works.

Kristina is the perfect example of what I've realized lately: writers have big hearts. We are dedicated and devoted not only to our own writing, but to each others' work as well. In other words, we are our own biggest cheerleaders. (If only we could look this good!!)

And, it doesn't matter where we are along our path. Whether you're a newbie just dipping your toes in the tepid writing waters, or a big-time best-selling author, we all have something in common - our love for the written word and for the simple wonder of telling a story.

There are many writers I've encountered lately who have been helpful to me along my journey. They are unselfish folks who possess generous, creative, beautiful souls. I am honored and humbled to have crossed their paths. Some I will be interviewing over the next few months, some I've had great "conversations" with via Twitter and/or e-mail, and all have left a deep impression upon my heart. They've made a difference in my relationship to my writing, and there is no way to properly thank someone for that kind of unselfish devotion.

The desire to elevate our own ideas and hone our own craft is one thing. It's natural to want to improve, expand and become the best writers we can be. But, to take the time to support others along the way is a tremendous gift. The desire to elevate those around you is what makes the journey of life so much more meaningful. Knowing there are kindred spirits willing to give of their time and experience is, for me, part of what makes the writing journey so fulfilling.

Of course, writers aren't the only people willing to contribute. I've come across many agents who are funny, helpful, and more than willing to give of their time and expertise to help writers along their way. My gratitude to them can not be measured.

Sometimes it's easy to get lost in the woes of the economy and how it's effecting the industry, but staying focused on our work is what matters. As writers, it is all we have and all we will ever have. The ability to pour our hearts and souls on to the written page and move others to tears, laughter, bliss, rapture, fear, reflection, and all manner of human emotion, is thrilling, transformative, a privilege, and a joy.

So, here's a toast: To writers everywhere, no matter where you are along your path, may you be filled with inspiration, passion, and the desire to write to your heart's content. And to the agents who help make our dreams come true. Cheers!

Tweet! Tweet!

I know some of you are still lagging in the discovery of Twitter's awesomeness. That's okay. I'll let it go a while longer. After all, I was once in your shoes; sad, lonely, bitter, perhaps a bit arrogant, and certainly far too busy to be bothered by such trivial nonsense as what Joey Smith of Bumblersville, AK had for breakfast this morning. Who the hell cares what Joey ate? I sure don't.

Plus, what's all that nonsense with the "@" and "#" signs? Way too confusing. Better to get back to your freshly baked, hot-out-of-the-oven chocolate chip cookies and watch Oprah.

But, wait! Don't give up so fast! Twitter is so much more than random ampersand and number signs and what Joey's having for breakfast. It's more. It's oh, so much more! And you can still eat all the cookies you want. Remember, you're on the internet - no one can see you! (Well, except for the aliens, but that's a whole 'nother story...)

Want to connect with other writers? Want to get great tips from agents? Want to participate in chats regarding the publishing biz? Then get your lazy bum over to Twitterville and start tweeting! It's fun, easy, enlightening, surprising, and ever-changing. Go on. Dive in. The water's a perfect 85 degrees.

Just don't tell me what you ate for breakfast.