While much of a writer’s time is spent alone with a pen and paper or computer, there are a lot of people out there that are involved in the process.  There’s the writing teachers who guide us down the path of punctuation and proper writing.  There’s the friends and family who support us by giving us time to write, ignoring the dust or boring meal while we write, who tell all their friends about the “author” they know and love.  There’s the writer’s group that critiques and commiserates with your struggles through the process, cheers your ups and keeps you company through your downs.

And when it’s done.  Your writer buddies hold your hand and buy you coffee while you wait to hear whether your story has won the contest or is accepted for publication.  They encourage you to keep writing and reading and share their experiences and stories with you.

If you do win or receive a contract for publication, those same friends and family will help you celebrate. If you don’t, then they will console you and encourage you to try again.  When your dream becomes reality and the book is in your hands, they applaud the beauty of your work, voraciously read it, and share it with kith and kin.  They’ll come to your readings and signings and ask questions, hug you and maybe even cry with happiness for your achievement.

They are your best promoters: telling their friends, who tell their friends and family, and so on and so on as the word spreads that you have a wonderful novel published.  They will give you ideas for the next story and wait impatiently for you to finish it so the process of waiting starts all over again.  It is so worth it.  Patience and support are the key.  Believing in your dreams, working toward your dreams, and gathering the support of others is vital.  You’re not alone, dear writer.  There are wonderful people hoping and helping your success.  Thank you friends and family!  I couldn’t have done it without you.