We're not in Kansas anymore, Dorothy

I owned a Christian bookstore for almost five years. During that time, I must have heard hundreds of people tell me how much they always wanted to own one. I still hear that comment.

They have no clue what really goes on behind closed bookstore doors. Inventorying, budgeting, ordering, decorating, worrying and praying. Keeping a ministry afloat on a shoestring budget is not a walk on the yellow brick road—or maybe it was because I was totally amazed how it did survive. (Thank you, God.)

Since becoming a writer, I’ve heard similar comments. “Oh, I’d love to sit on my porch all day and write.” “It must be so wonderful to know you will have a book on a shelf in a matter of months.”

This is where all the dedicated, committed writers groan together.

Writing is much more than journaling in a notebook in front of a picturesque lake. If a person thinks that’s all it is, then they’re in the wrong profession. Whether I write inspirational or secular—the process will be the same. I will need to write, edit, promote, then market and finally sell. Not necessarily in that order but the bigger picture says it takes a whole lot of hard work (along with prayer) just like any other profession.

I know there are writers who make it right away—but not many and not every day and I would still have to bet (if I did) they worked hard to get that manuscript edited, prepared and in the hands of a publisher.

There will be the writer who goes the distance and then there will be the writer who gives up because it’s too hard or not rewarding enough. If writing is your gift--persevere. Take care of yourself; but don’t let the dream die.

We may not be in Kansas anymore but we’re entering a whole new state.