"Fear of failure must never be a reason not to try something." --Frederick Smith
I never learned to ski. Truthfully never desired to. Besides, the ski lift always looked a bit risky. What a wimp, huh?
But once a few years back, I finally did it--I rode a ski lift. Hubby and I were on a cross-country road trip and stopped at a ski resort that offered summer rides to the top of the mountain. At first I balked. I would only ride the gondola, thank you very much, even if it meant just going half way. But hubby was patient (bless his heart) and convinced me to go on. I'm so glad he did.
For the lift took us to an amazing, mesmerizing view. Supposedly we could see three states (Idaho, Washington, Montana) from up there, as well as British Columbia, Canada. I felt like Maria/Julie Andrews in the opening scene of The Sound of Music. It was that beautiful. And to think I almost passed on the chance...
It's time now for me to take a chance on query submissions, the writer's personal mountain to climb. But my ski lift experience taught me that it's worth the risk--even if it means rejection. For if we concentrate too much on risks, we risk talking ourselves out of something neat before it has a chance to fly. So we'll see how this goes. At least I'm not afraid to ride the lift this time!
And certainly I'm grateful for all the fellow travelers along the way. Special thanks to Karen (Write Now) for her book give-away last week--and for being named her winner. That was exciting news. And not only do I have a chance to read a new book, I've been introduced to yet another wonderful author. A Distant Melody was written by Sarah Sundin. Read Karen's two-part interview with Sarah here and here.
So, what about you--are you a nail biter, too, or do you love the challenge of the climb?
Great post! You totally nailed this!! Sometimes risking it all is worth the reward!! Especially querying, even the rejection coming back to us allows us to take a second look at something we might have missed!!
ReplyDeleteEven though I stress, the climb is what makes it all possible. You have to really want the end result to make it work... and I have what it takes.
Ahhh.. I'm definitely a little bit of both. While I will stress the ENTIRE way there, the end result makes it all worth it :)
ReplyDeleteSo jealous of your gondola ride. I love the mountains and skiing.
ReplyDeleteBut yes, querying makes me nervous. I'll be doing it soon. Good luck to you!
You will do great! I have done it and it is scary but makes you feel as though you are climbing with everyone else. This week I sent my book to beta readers--talk about climbing a mountain. Ugh.
ReplyDeleteJen--thanks! And I cheer you on in your climb, too :-)
ReplyDeleteWriting Nut--I agree, the end result WILL make it all worth it!
Janet--Great to meet you! Thanks for the follow. Good luck in your querying process, too.
And Terri--thanks for the encouragement! And best to you on your critique results.
Thanks to all for your comments...
How funny - I always compared the writing life to a roller coaster - the same sense of thrill and "danger" as a gondola ride. I just remember that God promises to be a light unto my feet - He doesn't illuminate the whole path including the final destination - He just gives us enough light for the next step. My job? Be courageous and step into that tiny circle of light. So keep stepping into the light, fellow writers - our obedience is more important than our "success." And Kenda - your book will be in the mail soon :) I hope you like it.
ReplyDeleteI like to follow writer’s blogs as I feel I learn from each one. I have a book of Communion devotionals at the printers which I authored, although I don’t consider myself an accomplished writer. I am a follower on your blog and invite you to follow mine as well…and please leave a comment when and if you visit.
ReplyDelete"For if we concentrate to much on risks, we risk talking ourselves out of something neat before it has a chance to fly". LOVE that--it's so inspiring.
ReplyDeleteAnd I remember hearing about that climb ;) Good thing you are courageous about taking risks personally and professionally!