Today’s Question: What is your favorite aspect of being a writer?
What a great question for November, the time of year when we reflect on our favorite things and count our blessings. I’m a people person, so I’d say my favorite aspect of being a writer are all the people, places, and experiences that have come my way as a result of publishing my YA trilogy, 18 Things. Growing up, I had some pretty dark days, and I never dreamed the life I have now would be possible. I’m so grateful for the gift God has placed in my hands, and I love hearing from readers who’ve said my books changed their life. The way written words can transform a soul never ceases to amaze me. I didn’t strive to make my books religious, but I did pray God would use my novels as a vessel through which love flowed outward, touching people the way His love touched me. To see the fruits of that prayer is a humbling experience.
My first event as a published author. I shared a vendor’s table with fellow members of my local writers group & brought a box of my books to sell. I thought I’d sell one, but I sold . . . wait for it . . . 18!!
And I love meeting other authors, too. Most writers are great at spreading the love, and I strive to do the same. The last three years I’ve spearheaded a literacy festival at the middle school where I taught English, and now that I’ve switched to high school, I’m planning the same event but on a much larger scale. Already, 12 YA authors have agreed to come FOR FREE! Of course, they’ll get lots of book sales out of the event, but it’s just so awesome to see their level of excitement matching the students enthusiasm for this festival. Spreading the love helps me to count my blessings because I’m constantly reminded how supported I am by those around me, and vice versa.
This has been a post for the Insecure Writer’s Support Group, the brainchild of Head Ninja, Alex J. Cavanaugh. Feel free to join us the first Wednesday of every month! Purpose: To share and encourage.
The awesome co-hosts for the November 2 posting of the IWSG are Joylene Nowell Butler, Jen Chandler, Mary Aalgaard, Lisa Buie Collard, Tamara Narayan, Tyrean Martinson, and Christine Rains! Thanks for spreading the love, guys!!
Jamie Ayres 
You were a willing vessel and God used you. That’s all we can hope for.
You sold eighteen? Now that was confirmation!
Riiight?! And you are quite the vessel too . . . you’ve been a major blessing in my life!
I agree! Meeting other writers has been the best part of being a writer. Happy IWSG Day, Jamie.
Counting blessings is so important. I pray as I write too- sometimes for forgiveness and that God has a sense of humor. But seriously, if there is some good that can come from a mainstream book, I hope the message is in there.
You’re not the only one who feels like connecting with others is a huge benefit of writing. I agree too and have seen many people say that.
I’ve definitely had fun with that since I published my first last year. It’s amazing the people you meet and the experiences you have after you put yourself out there.
You are an inspiration to other authors and everyone around you. What a neat thing you’re doing in the schools. What a beautiful story of your life. So happy to meet you.
God definitely used you to be an inspiration and an awesome writer! Best wishes in all you do!
Great job on working for those festivals. That’s a wonderful idea.
Yes! That rocks. Way to go building a community and sharing in a meaningful way with others. (On a separate note, remind me where you are in Florida. If you’re close and looking for more authors, I might be interested in joining you.)
It’s great that you’re using your position to inspire those students! Who knows, some of them could be the next great writers of the future thanks to your encouragement.
Absolutely . . . there’s always one every year that I think definitely could be!
Congratulations on selling 18 books and on your first event! It’s exciting each time (at least so far.)