Inspiration | Cathy C. Hall Writes

I got involved in a bit of a group online discussion today (probably should have been writing, but I’ll write about that WNTD next week) and realized that a writer friend had taken a classic WNTD and turned it around into a What Exactly To Do.

First, the WNTD: Don’t go counting your money for the manuscript ’til the check comes in, grasshopper. But, honestly, is there a writer out there who hasn’t fallen for that? You send your article or story or essay off and weeks later the contract lands in your inbox. Wheee! Before you can say, “I just sold another one!” you get an email saying that you are not, unfortunately, one of the finalists. Or that the magazine will not, unfortunately, be using your article. Or the webzine’s gone belly up. Whatever.

The bottom line is the same. You spoke too soon. And now you feel like, well, I think we’ve said enough about that. Best to move on to the What Exactly To Do, as my writer friend did ever so promptly.

Take that glowing piece of writing and immediately send it back out again. If there’s not a market available now, keep checking back…there will be. Because here’s the thing. If it was good enough to be a finalist, or considered for a magazine the first time around, it’s still good. It’s still saleable. And don’t you forget it. Or the article.

Oooooh, I found something so funny today! (Besides Mr. Hall’s baby picture…although, if I’m being perfectly honest, his brother is much funnier-looking. So I guess I sorta got the better end of that deal).

Anyway, kids and funny have something to do with my second find for the day. I found the website, New Christian Voices, a few weeks ago. I’ve been reading all the columns and articles since then and laughing out loud. So, um, if you like your Christian voices staid and serious, this may not be the place for you. But if your Christian voice is a little skewed on the humorous side, then rush over here right now. And while you’re there, check out my tale of the Parent/Child Chaos Equation on the Relationship Channel. I just realized today that it was up and running. I love this new site and hope it finds a huge audience. The world could use a laugh every day, don’t you think? And if we can laugh and spread a little of the Lord’s joy while we’re at it, then so much the better!

Oh, and here’s something that might make you smile, too, if your story is chosen. It’s called Thin Threads and it’s sponsored by Kiwi Publishing. They’re looking for those moments in your life that made all the difference. They’re hoping to share stories that will bring hope and happiness to readers ( in 1200 words or less). But you don’t have much time…the deadline’s July 1st. I know, I know, I should have told you sooner. But I just found out myself. So hurry, check it out here and start writing.

No, wait! You can start writing after you’ve checked out New Christian Voices. There’s nothing like a little humor to put you in a happy writing frame of mind. (Now if I could just get Uncle Jimmy’s baby picture out of my mind!)