THE REAL REASON I WRITE IS . . . YOU

I've had a number of people approach me lately and ask if I would sign a copy of my new book for them.  Often they seem embarrassed, like they might be bothering me or something.  In my heart I wish each one of those kind people knew that their request gives me great joy.

Making a one-to-one personal connection with a reader is why I write.  Writing is a solitary and lonely occupation . . . just me and my computer in my office.  An author's life also comes with a lot of rejection.  Yes I have a pile of rejection letters and unpublished manuscripts.  In addition to that, many publishers these days are having a hard time making a profit so the small piece of the pie they offer to the author keeps going down and down.  So, in reality, I could work a minimum wage job and earn more.

Every time I'm tempted to give up on writing, a thoughtful individual will contact me and tell me how much a few words I've written have meant to them. Though they are unaware, their personal contact and kind words are my real pay.  So I want to thank you, my readers, for your words of encouragement or for asking me to sign a book for you.  You simply can not know how much you mean to me.  You are the reason I write . . . not for the masses . . . for you.

For example, the other day I heard from Krista.          

Dear Janene-

I just wanted to take a moment to tell you thank you for your priceless new book, For Every Mother. Over the weekend, I purchased 4 copies- one for my mom, mother in law, my sister, and one for myself. I have just finished the first section about the Spring (which happens to be the season I am in now, with 3 small children at home.) I have been sneaking away every possible free moment I have had to get some reading in. This book has really moved me so far, and brought me a renewed sense of purpose and hope and remembrance of the importance of the work I am now doing. It means so much coming from someone who has been there, and done that. Many of your touching anecdotes have brought tears to my eyes and joy to my heart. I just wanted to say thank you, and I can't wait to finish the book. I also can't wait until Mother's Day, when I will present these priceless gifts to the most special women in my life. You have a true talent-this book is a treasure.

Thanks again,

Krista Chamberlain

Dear Krista,
Thank you so much for writing to me.  You are the reason I write.  When an author and a reader make a personal connection we become deeply satisfying and endearing friends.
With great love and appreciation,

Janene