Validation

I've been thinking a lot about validation lately. I assume the definition is different for each writer, but mostly, we believe that snagging our first book contract will validate all those nights, hours, years spent on our manuscripts. But will it truly?

The term manuscript is tossed around so freely in the publishing world that it's become akin to saying and or the. But in the writer's world, our creative abode, manuscript seems quite an empty word. Too cold to describe the lush, warm, sun-dappled entity that is our prose or poetry.

I've spent far too much time focusing on the validation of the manuscript that I forgot to revel in the validation of my novel itself. Writing my first book has brought me more pleasure and joy than most other experiences ever have or ever could. I love these characters I've spent the past 5 years with. I'll go on loving them probably until the day I die. Having them in my life has made my life better, whether they live on my computer screen or on a printed page nestled beside other tomes in a bookstore. No matter how much I accomplish in the publishing world, I know I've accomplished something great in the creative world and plan to accomplish more.

Remember fellow writers: writing is not something you do for a contract or a royalty check. Writing is simply...what we do.

If you haven't seen Miss Potter, I urge you to rent it today. It gives me such inspiration and encouragement. Not only did she cherish the publishing process, but she cherished the times in between, making the most out of her characters and her stories.

I thought I'd include one of my favorite parts from the film for this blog. Maybe it will encourage you too. I can never watch the beginning without tearing up, knowing that someday I'll experience what Beatrix did when she signed her first contract. I'm excited to present myself to the world and look upon this grueling publishing process as an adventure. But I must remember, publishing is only one type of validation. There are so many others... I'm looking forward to enjoying each one with just as much appreciation and passion.