So in between the constant robo-calls and the ceiling cracks and the flooding on the floor AND the non-stop barking because ringing phones and working folks in the house call for non-stop Libs patrol, I have managed to come up with something over at the Muffin.
And considering that as I’m typing this post, Libs is cowered behind me, in my office chair, because the YARD MAN IS HERE WITH TOOLS OF DESTRUCTION (leaf blower at the moment), it’s kinda amazing.
Um…just to be clear, the blog post itself is not that amazing. It’s just me, speaking my truth in “This I Know 2.0.” But after I read it this morning, I realized that I’d left out something very important that I know. Which is not too surprising, all things considered (see above).
And so I’m glad I have this spot here to add another truth, to share this I know as well:
That writers appreciate their readers. Not because they need reviews or want people to buy their books, though of course, either of those are nice. And not even because of lovely comments or the occasional thank-you note or email, though those are certainly swell, too. But mostly, writers appreciate readers because…well, I guess it’s sort of like this quote from The Velveteen Rabbit:
“Real isn’t how you are made,” said the Skin Horse. “It’s a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become Real.”
Readers give writers validation. Readers make us real. And so thank you to all the readers who make me a real writer. Even when my efforts are less than stellar due to extenuating circumstances (see above).
Cathy C. Hall Writes 
As usual, Cathy, you write a truth and one that I often think about. Without readers, I probably shouldn’t call myself a writer, because others are required to validate what I say. Or to call BS. Or to give advice. All are welcome.
Exactly! And I welcome whatever a reader gives, too.
So true, Cathy!
Thanks, Pat. I had a big editing project come up and so I’m behind in my reading but I’m *almost* finished which means I can get back to I AM MRS. JESSE JAMES. Y’all, it’s a good ‘un!
Readers are the best! Also bookstores that invite you in to do story time.
Yep, I’ll raise a cuppa to that, Lisa!
#readerlove is something a friend of mine has ended her emails with for a long time. It is, as you said, all about loving our readers. That’s who we’re writing for, after all, because without them, we’re just stuffed rabbits. Er . . . wait. That didn’t—eh. You know what I mean. 🙂
I know exactly what you mean, Lovely Lisa. (And P.S. There are times I feel just like a stuffed rabbit. Just sayin’. 🙂 )
Cathy–At least for me, what appears at the end of this post is a woman pinching her more-than-an-inch poochy belly. It’s some ad from a group of doctors, I believe. I wonder if that was meant just for me? 😉
I constantly am grateful for the kindness of not strangers but instead, of readers and fellow writers. Granted, my readers are limited, but I occasionally get a comment from a reader who’s also not a writing colleague.
By the way, you look fabulous in your photo that’s on your Muffin post.
Yep, I’m grateful for those people I don’t know, and will likely never meet, who take the time to say something nice. And though you don’t count because I feel like I know you, Sioux, I still appreciate the compliment! That was taken at Juniorette’s Hall’s wedding. Amazing what getting a kid married off will do for one’s complexion. Hahahahhahhaa!
Or is the wine you consumed at the reception that’s responsible for the glow? 😉
Your posts are so REAL and that what makes your writing so appealing.