For two years I’ve been pushing, pushing, pushing. Who knew writing a novel would take so long? The first seven months or so were the fun part. Being creative and letting the words flow to create a world and people and, with any luck, a compelling story. I wrote way more than I needed to. But I opened the gates and trusted that with the help of some helpers more experienced — and perhaps wiser — than me, all the words could be edited down and formed into that story. It took a lot of patience. I found myself waiting. Honestly, it’s not something I am great at. When I am inspired all I want to do is create. Stopping triggers all sorts of fears and insecurities. “I should be doing something.” “I should be productive.” “I should be working on the next book while I am waiting.”
In this moment my debut novel — Return to Star Junction — is in the hands of a few advanced readers. The story has been guided by an amazing story/developmental editor. I learned so much from that process. I absolutely know that she was a gift to this book. After doing my rewrites and tweaking, reviewing, tweaking more, I put it in the capable hands of my copy editor. (Can I just tell you how amazing and surreal it feels to say the words “my copy editor”?) Now the edits are made and minor tweaks and corrections done, but not the waiting. I’ve shared the manuscript with “outside” people for the first time. It is nerve-wracking. I’ve heard from some, and I wait on others. And I am once again reminded that it is okay to pause. Yes, I can focus my energy on the next book, the website, or social media posts, or even some household chores. But the reminder is for that. It is to remember that pausing is also productive. Just sitting and enjoying the moment before the launch. This moment that can be one of Peace if I let it. And so it is. May you all be enjoying your moments.
~ Serra