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WritersNotes.Net: Helping Writers Follow Their Dreams Through Information, Inspiration, and Encouragement!
September '08 Comment Recognition
I'm honored to once again recognize my valued readers who have left comments at Writer's Notes. To all the special people who have graced this little corner of the blogosphere with your wit and wisdom during the month of September, 2008, "Thank you!" You help to make this blog better! Special thanks, also, to those who commented here for the first time last month! You, too, are truly appreciated!
Thanks, Everyone!
I'm truly grateful for all your thoughtful, wise, inspiring, informative, and incisive comments! Thanks so much for taking the time to read and share your thoughts, experiences, and support at Writer's Notes! I really enjoy reading your insights, viewpoints, and perspectives! They add so much richness to my own experience! Thanks so much for making September another great month through your valuable input!
September '08 Commenters
The following is a list (in no particular order) of all the wonderful people who have left comments at Writer's Notes during September, 2008:
Brad Shorr, at Word Sell, Inc.
Lillie Ammann, at A Writer's Words, An Editor's Eye
pay blog review
Cheryl Wright, at Cheryl Wright Writes
Chris Champion, at Vyoos
Amy Derby, at Write From Home
Joanna Young, at Confident Writing
Sharon Hurley Hall, at Get Paid to Write Online
Laura Spencer, at Writing Thoughts
Wilson Pon, at TechnoStuffs
K-IntheHouse, at ShanKri-la
Melissa Donovan, at Writing Forward
Jean Wise, at Kindred Heart Writers
Karen Swim, at Words for Hire
James Chartrand, at Men With Pens
James Rickard, at Angling Fish
Dan C. Rinnert (aka, dcr) , at dcrBlogs
Jean Browman, at Cheerful Monk
Bobby Revell, at Revellian
Joel Ratner (aka, Zirdlander) , at Zirdland.com
Janet Collins, at The Social Critic
Katyzzz, at MS Paint Art
Anonymous commenters during September: 1
Comment left after midnight Australia time on 10/1, which was still 9/30 in the US:
Jarrah, at Back to the Eighties
I Truly Appreciate Your Comments!
Thank you so much, everyone, for making the Writer's Notes conversation so much richer during the past month by visiting and sharing your, insights, opinions, advice, and experiences with us! You add so much value to this blog, and for that, I thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Many, many thanks,
Jeanne
P.S. If you've commented at Writer's Notes during September, and I've somehow managed to overlook you, please be sure to let me know. I do my best to keep track, but every so often I do slip up. I appreciate every single commenter, and I definitely want to give each of you the recognition you deserve!
Did you enjoy this post? Have anything to add...any insights to share? I'd love to hear your thoughts! After all, your comments are what these monthly recognition posts are all about!
Please note: If the StumbleUpon and other social bookmarking buttons aren't visible, please click the "Add Comments" link beneath this post. Thanks!
September 21st 2008 01:26
The Lowdown Right from the Lizard's* Mouth!
Joel Ratner, Director of Zirdland.com, has graciously responded to several somewhat skeptical comments left on my recent post: "That First Line" Contest Offers $500 Prize for One Line! In his comment, Joel addresses a few issues raised by some Writer's Notes readers. I've decided to reproduce his fairly lengthy comment in this post to be certain that everyone who's read the earlier post and either entertained or expressed doubts about the Zirdland website and its writing contests will see his remarks and benefit from hearing the other side of the story.
The Inside Scoop from the Top Man at Zirdland
The following is what Joel had to say about his site:
Hi Jeanne -
Thanks for writing so many wonderful things about our web site. It's been a long development process. But we want to make sure we get this right. For too long, writers have been left in the dark wondering how to get published. Publishers are similarly in the dark about where the "truly" great works can be found. They rely on third-parties to evaluate and recommend. Seems to us (as writers) a tragic failed business model.
So, maybe we're crazy for trying to change things, but somebody needs to do something - the same old stuff keeps getting published - and I can tell you from what we've seen in both the first-line contest and the new novel competition, that there are some incredibly talented people with very meaningful works out there. Even more tragic are some of the tales of their querying experiences.
The Arc Angel is something we've worked on for 4 years now, and when deployed, we hope it can bridge the gap - helping writers structure their plots and characters for maximum reader satisfaction, and helping the publishers wade through their slush-piles in a more organized way. While it can't "read" like a human - or interpret the social significance of a work, it can accurately detect emotional development, dramatic ebb and flow and chart-out the arc structure for each character and for combinations of characters.
The actual user-interface you will eventually see on the site will be very intuitive, graphical, and integrated with a text editor so a writer can work in the desktop environment and have the Arc Angel analyze the edits on the fly.
Our writers focus groups have given us valuable feedback and even some of the die-hard skeptics remained well afterwards to get more hands-on with the Arc Angel - addicted, as we are.
The novel competition is our beta test - giving the Arc Angel and the processing engines a work-out with real submissions. While we've taken reasonable precautions to protect the entries, writers should always copyright their works. No rights are lost by entering - we only expect to test the system. Eventually, each entrant will receive the analysis output of their entry. And of course, one exceptional writer will also get $1,000.
No entry fee this time around. The first-line contest was an effort to raise money for our literacy partners (Firstbook and National Center for Family Literacy) while providing a fun opportunity for writers. We love competitions and feel it sparks creativity. I think Zirdland will always have some sort of contest running...at least we'll try.
Hope that helps. I'm excited to see so much discussion about our project and we'd welcome any suggestions or insights your readers may have.
Thanks again for great coverage of the adventure!
Joel Ratner, Director
Zirdland.com, LLC
Permission to Quote Graciously Granted
In response to my request for permission to turn his comment into a blog post, Joel later posted this friendly follow-up comment:
Hi Jeanne -
No problem at all in distributing my comments. Yes, I did see your later post. Again, thanks for sharing your thoughts and comments about Zirdland. I'm glad to get some opposing viewpoints from all the responses to your post - it helps us understand what areas we need to focus on as we develop this site.
It's been a lot of fun and we've received so many well-wishes.
Let me know if you or your readers have any additional questions, comments or concerns. I'll do my best to answer them.
Any Questions or Comments for Joel About His Site?
There you have it--right from the source. If you still have questions, concerns, thoughts, or opinions about Zirdland, its contests, or its Arc Angel Story Analysis Tool that you'd like to share, Joel would be more than happy to listen and respond to any issues you may have.
Thanks to All!
Thanks so much, Joel, for your willingness to entertain our comments, answer our questions, and assuage our concerns!
And thank-you, Writer's Notes readers for your thoughtful comments left in response to my earlier post! Thanks, too, for any feedback you may decide to give Joel in response to his gracious offer to clarify his site's plans, goals, philosophy, policies, and practices!
To your writing future!
Jeanne
* The Zirdland trademark/mascot is a bright green lizard, appropriately called a zird.
Did you enjoy this post? Have any questions for Joel about his site, his software, or his contests? Any suggestions for ways his site could better serve you as a writer? Any concerns that haven't been addressed either on the site or in his comments? Both he and I would love to hear your thoughts!
Please note: If the StumbleUpon and other social bookmarking buttons aren't visible, please click the "Add Comments" link beneath this post. Thanks!
September 19th 2008 06:14
A Writing Project Too Good to Miss
The topic of this month’s WILF (What I Learned From) group writing project at Middle Zone Musings is What I Learned From…My Friends. And while I was unable to complete my post in time for the deadline, I wrote it anyway because I still wanted to contribute my own thoughts on this very important topic. (Be sure to read the other great entries over at MZM!)
As Robert Hruzek comes back online after his recent battle with Hurricane Ike, during which the thoughts and prayers of his many friends went up on his behalf—and were answered in that he and his wife are safe and their Houston home has suffered no damage—I feel that this is a fitting time to broach the topic of friends. (Robert, how did you know that the topic you’d chosen earlier this month would be so timely?)
Here are my musings about the friends I’ve made both online and off and the many profound ways that these fantastic folks have spoken into my life.
Friends: A Host of Gifts, A Host of Lessons
Friends care. They always have our best interests at heart. They’d much rather hear how we’re really doing than listen to a litany of pretentious pleasantries. They teach us that honest communication is absolutely necessary for getting our needs met.
Friends accept us as we are. They don’t expect us to be perfect. By accepting us unconditionally, they help us to accept ourselves—weaknesses and all. They teach us that we have value, that we are worthy of acceptance—regardless of our shortcomings, simply because we are us.
Friends encourage. When nothing seems to be going our way, when the whole world appears to be against us, when we’re most in need of a cheering section, friends are always there to encourage us and build our confidence. They teach us that "two are better than one...for if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow..." *
Friends provide perspective. They have an amazing way of cutting to the heart of a matter and pointing out the aspects we can’t seem to recognize for ourselves in the midst of our own hurts, hang-ups, insecurities, mental blocks, and self-imposed limitations. They teach us that things aren't always as they seem--and that, so often, that's very good news!
Friends allow us the luxury of making mistakes—and learning from them—without judging or thinking less of us and without saying “I told you so.” They teach us that it’s OK to be fallible and that when we fail, we will recover.
Friends forgive. They care enough to place the value of our friendship above their own hurt feelings. They don’t close us off when we’ve said or done something foolish but willingly talk it out in a non-accusatory way. And by setting that wonderfully generous example, they increase our capacity to forgive ourselves, teaching us that we aren't the wretched, hopeless cases we sometimes think we must be.
Friends share our joys, as well as our sorrows. They never envy our successes or begrudge us our moment in the spotlight. Instead, they cheer the loudest and step forward to become our greatest fans. They teach us that, contrary to the popularity of the phrase, there’s really no such thing as a fair-weather friend. There are only fair-weather acquaintances--because real friends stand by us through sunshine and rain.
Friends give. They contribute to our well-being in countless ways—from sharing their insights to sharing their sympathy—providing the mental, emotional, material, and even physical sustenance we require in order to thrive. They teach us the wisdom of the age-old truth that it is indeed more blessed to give than to receive. **
Friends tell us the truth—gently and with love. They know that dishonesty and lack of candor drives a wedge between people; yet, by the same token, they recognize that tact is one of the greatest ways of showing they truly care. They teach us that harshness is never required for getting one's point across.
Friends help us laugh at ourselves. They never laugh at us but only with us, and in that delightfully liberating way, they teach us never to take ourselves too seriously
Friends inspire us to use our gifts. Through their influence, they bring out the best in us. They teach us that resources reside within us that we ourselves don’t always recognize—or utilize—and they gently remind us to do so. Because of their belief in us, they plant within us the desire to fulfill their highest expectations--and they make us believe we actually can.
Friends smooth our rough edges. Through their example, their patience, their insight, and their counsel, they teach us to see ourselves as we are, and they jump-start the process of gradually narrowing the gap between where we are and where we’d like to be, as they sand away our imperfections and help us refine our personalities.
Friends sharpen us. They help us hone our mental facility to a razor’s edge by asking incisive questions that urge us to analyze, describe, express, explain, and often even defend our motives, opinions, ideas, and perceptions. They hold us accountable for responsibly developing both our humanity and our intellect. “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another” *** In the process they teach us that, in order to reach our full potential, we need one another.
Friends validate us. They teach us that we are unique, that no one else in the entire universe can take our place, that the air we breathe and the space we inhabit, while gifts, are things of which we are supremely worthy. They teach us, too, that when we are gone and our personal space is empty, we will leave an inexpressible void which no one else can fill—and we will be missed.
The Wonderful Impact of Friends
These are the many lessons I’ve learned from my friends, lessons that impact my life—and my writing—in so many wonderful ways!
Your friend,
Jeanne
* Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 – The Bible, King James Version
** Acts 20:35 – The Bible, King James Version
*** Proverbs 27:17 – The Bible, New International Version
Did you enjoy this post? Have anything to add? How do your friends impact your life? How do they impact your writing? Do they inspire? Encourage? Believe in your talent? Help you sharpen your skills? Hold you accountable for taking care of business? Give you constructive feedback? I’d love it if you’d share your thoughts!
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September 18th 2008 19:09
Blogs, Forums, Free Polls, or Exciting Prizes, Anyone?
Are you looking for a free online blog community where you can share your thoughts, photos and videos, music files, podcasts, and more--without pressure, deadlines, or stress? Would a friendly and active forum where you can meet new people and discuss current news, events, or any other topic that strikes your fancy, or the opportunity to win expense-paid retreats to fabulous places excite your interest? Does unlimited free space for your postings sound like a great deal to you? You might even already have a blog of your own and would simply like to create free polls to post on it. If any of the above features sound good to you, you might want to check out a new community which is growing up at Thoughts.com--a community which focuses on Blogs, with a capital B!
Thoughts.com: A Great Place to Try Your Hand at Blogging
For those who have the creative urge, yet who've mainly focused on reading other people's blogs, possibly going so far as to comment occasionally, and have begun thinking about trying blogging out for themselves, yet up till now, have been a little shy about doing so, Thoughts.com can be a great place to start. The friendly, casual, easygoing atmosphere of this site can help make the sometimes-frightening prospect of becoming an official blogger a positive, enjoyable, even fun experience, helping you get your "Web feet" wet, with zero performance anxiety.
Something for Everyone
Whether you've always dreamed of blogging, but haven't yet had the nerve to try it, or are simply seeking a site where you can engage others in conversation--or pick up a nifty, free poll for your own website or blog--Thoughts.com could just be the site you've been looking for. Why not stop by and check it out? You may just like what you see.
Happy blogging!
Jeanne
Did you enjoy this post? Have anything to add? If you've never blogged before, would you be more inclined to try blogging on a more casual, low-profile website or an "official," high-profile site? Why? If you're an experienced blogger, do you often check out forums and other social media sites where you can connect with others of like mind? I'd love to hear your thoughts!
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September 11th 2008 21:08
Which Term Do You Use?
While I realize this isn't an issue of earth-shattering importance, the question was brought home to me this morning when MS-Word unceremoniously informed me (via the dreaded squiggly red underline) that the word "commenters" was incorrect. (For those of you who may not yet know it, this is the form I use exclusively [and without apology]--at least with reference to the people who comment on blogs.)
Allow me to add here that my personal preference for the word "commenters" over "commentators" is in no way intended as a criticism of those who choose the latter term. However, my mention of this issue is intended to present the reasons for my preference, as well as the reasons why MS-Word--and anyone else who believes the word "commenters" to be second-rate English--is just plain wrong.
Dictionary Definitions
My (print) dictionary tells me that "commenter" is indeed a legitimate term for one who comments, since it happens to be listed as an accepted form of the word "comment." It also defines a "commentator" as either "one who writes commentaries" or "one who discusses or analyzes news events." Personally, I've always tended to view the term "commentator" in this more specialized and official manner.
I am aware, of course, that, because the word "commentaries," used in the first definition, can simply mean "comments," it's also perfectly legitimate to use "commentators" to describe those who comment on blogs. But, my intention in writing this post never was to dispute that fact in the first place, but rather to demonstrate that "commenters" is an equally valid alternative.
Other dictionaries I've consulted (online), however, tend to reinforce my interpretation of the term "commentator" as an expert who writes and/or broadcasts analysis of the news, sports, weather, and the like, most of these websites making no mention of the simple, casual act of "commenting." But, apparently, as in most questions which involve the continuous evolution of the language, there's a great deal of room for interpretation on this issue. So, dear readers, I would contend that the choice is entirely ours.
Judge Not
Nevertheless, I've always been--and I suspect will always remain--partial to the term "commenter" when referring to those who offer feedback on our blog posts. I also suspect that I'll continue to reserve the term "commentator" for more specialized use. You, on the other hand, may choose to do otherwise, and that's certainly your prerogative. I promise not to judge you if you won't judge me.
What's Your Take?
Which term do you prefer and why? Does it bother you to read or hear the alternate term (when used to refer to those who comment on blogs)? If so, why do you think that is? Does one or the other term seem less appropriate or somehow less grammatically correct? I'd sure love to hear your take on the topic!
Question for Those With More Recent Versions of Word
If you have a version of MS-Word that's more recent than 2003, does Spell-Check indicate that the word "commenters" is incorrect? I'm quite curious whether Word has caught up with the times and corrected this anomaly.
For the love of Words!
Jeanne
Did you enjoy this post? Have anything to add? What are your own personal thoughts on the "commenters/commentators" issue? Do you care? Do you view it simply as another interesting rhetorical question, or is it a pet peeve of yours? I'd love to hear your thoughts!
August '08 Comment Recognition
I'm honored to once again recognize my valued readers who have left comments at Writer's Notes. To all the special people who have graced this little corner of the blogosphere with your wit and wisdom during the month of August, 2008, "Thank you!" You help to make this blog what it is! A special thanks, too, to those of you who commented here for the first time last month! You, too, are greatly appreciated!
Thanks So Much, Everyone!
I appreciate all your thoughtful, wise, inspiring, informative, and incisive comments! Thanks so much for taking the time to read and share your thoughts, opinions, ideas, experiences, and support at Writer's Notes! I truly enjoy reading your insights, viewpoints, and perspectives! Thanks for making August another special month through your valuable input!
August '08 Commenters
The following is a list (in no particular order) of all the fantastic folks who have left comments at Writer's Notes during August, 2008:
Brad Shorr, at Word Sell, Inc.
Lillie Ammann, at A Writer's Words, An Editor's Eye
Raven, at Alaska Chronicle
Cheryl Wright, at Cheryl Wright Writes
Wilson Pon, at Techno Stuffs
Chris Champion, at Vyoos
Shamelle, at The Enhance Life
Joanne Fedler, at Secret Writers Business
AmyHuang, at Travel String
Ash, at Australian Traveller
Lilla, at Enviro Warrior
Workflow, at Gedys IntraWare
Ravens’ wraith
Robyn McMaster, at Brain Based Biz
Meggie, at TV Chit Chat
D. Armenta, at The Florida Keys and Everglades
Brenton, at Downwrite
Joanna Young, at Confident Writing
Karen Swim, at Words for Hire
Graphic Design Blog, at StuffHeaven
AnonymousC (Cheryl)
高須クリニック (Translation: Clinic)
I Truly Appreciate Your Comments!
Thank you so much, everyone, for making the Writer's Notes conversation so much richer during the past month by visiting and sharing your thoughts, insights, opinions, advice, and personal experiences with us! You add so much value to this blog, and for that, I thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Many, many thanks,
Jeanne
P.S. If you've commented at Writer's Notes during August, and I've somehow managed to overlook you, please be sure to let me know. I appreciate every single commenter, and I want to give each of you the recognition you deserve!
Did you enjoy this post? Have anything to add...any insights to share? I'd love to hear your thoughts! After all, your comments are what these monthly recognition posts are all about!
Please note: If the StumbleUpon and other social bookmarking buttons aren't visible, please click the "Add Comments" link beneath this post. Thanks!
Two Big Moves: a Domain and a Domicile!
Confident Writing coach Joanna Young has been very busy of late. First, she moved her Confident Writing blog to WordPress--a big enough job in itself! Then, she took on the Herculean task of moving her residence, as well. Some Internet connection problems right before her move only added to the stress, but I'm happy to report that Joanna's move is complete, she's happily tucked away in her new home, her Internet connection issues have been resolved, and she's raring to resume her activities coaching wordsmiths like you to become "confident writers."
Confident Writing: A Blog You Don't Want to Miss!
If you're not familiar with Joanna's blog, you don't know what you've been missing! And if you've been looking for a place where you could learn the secrets of writing with confidence, you're in luck! Joanna's blog is chock-full of tips, techniques, encouragement, advice, and inspiration to help you become the writer you've always known you could be.
One Confident Writing post I think you'll love as much as I did is The Secret: 20 Ways To Attract More Comments On Your Blog. And this is just one of many, many excellent posts Joanna has written to help you become a more confident writer (and blogger). Do yourself a favor and mine her archives--after you've read all her recent posts, that is.
You'll Feel Right at Home at Joanna's New Home!
One of the best things about Confident Writing is that Joanna will welcome you with open arms! Please make it a point to visit and let her know you're glad she's back. (When you do, you'll see what a gracious hostess she is.) And while you're at it, why not bookmark her site? You'll be glad you did!
Welcome Back, Joanna!
You have many friends in the blogosphere, all of whom wish you well. Please accept our heartfelt wishes for a wonderful life in your brand new home, a prosperous season on your new domain, and a glorious sense of the warmth with which we welcome you back to your rightful place among those of us who care so much about you!
Many good wishes for the future!
Jeanne
Did you enjoy this post? Have any thoughts to share about writing with confidence--or about your visit to Confident Writing? I'd love to hear them!
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July '08 Comment Recognition
Once again it's time to recognize my valued readers who have left comments at Writer's Notes during the month of July, 2008. My apologies that my July posts were so sparse. Life has been especially hectic again this past month! And consequently, because I wrote so few posts, my list of July commenters will be correspondingly short. (Special thanks to this loyal group of die-hard Writer's Notes fans who decided to stick with me anyway! Thanks, too, to those of you who commented here for the first time last month! You, too, are greatly appreciated!)
Thanks So Much!
I appreciate all your thoughtful comments! Thanks so much for taking the time to read and share your thoughts, opinions, ideas, experiences, and support at Writer's Notes! I truly enjoy reading your insights, experiences, and viewpoints! Thanks for making July another special month through your valuable input!
July '08 Commenters
The following is a list (in no particular order) of all the fantastic folks who have left comments at Writer's Notes during July, 2008:
Brad Shorr, at Word Sell, Inc.
Lillie Ammann, at A Writer's Words, An Editor's Eye
Raven, at Alaska Chronicle
Cindy Nichols, at Kaleidoscope
Dan (dcr), at dcrBlogs
Cheryl Wright, at Cheryl Wright Writes
Dianna G., at I Wish This Was 42
Wild Bill, at Passionate Blogger
Lindsay, at Writing for Your Wealth
Wilson Pon, at Techno Stuffs
Chris Champion, at Vyoos
And Two Honorable Mentions
I'd like to also add two of my favorite blogging buddies to this month's comment recognition list, though neither was able to comment during July, for the reasons mentioned below.
Due to technical difficulties which were entirely beyond her control, Krissy Knox has been unable to comment at Orble lately but has contacted me more than once via MyBlogLog messages:
Krissy Knox, at Sometimes I Think
While Michele Tune's life has been extremely hectic during the past month and therefore she hasn't found the time to comment, she has communicated with me via e-mail and has also given one of my posts a Stumble:
Michele Tune, at Writing the Cyber Highway
Thanks, ladies!
I Really Appreciate Your Comments!
Thanks again, everyone, for making the Writer's Notes conversation so much richer this past month by visiting and sharing your thoughts, insights, opinions, advice, and personal experiences with us! You're the best!
Many, many thanks,
Jeanne
P.S. If you've commented at Writer's Notes during July, and I've somehow managed to overlook you, please let me know. I appreciate every commenter, and I want each of you to get the recognition you deserve!
Did you enjoy this post? Have anything to add...any insights to share? I'd love to hear your thoughts! After all, your comments are what these monthly recognition posts are all about!
Please note: If the StumbleUpon and other social bookmarking buttons aren't visible, please click the "Add Comments" link beneath this post. Thanks!
June '08 Comment Recognition
Once again it's time to recognize my valued readers who have left comments at Writer's Notes during the month of June, 2008. (My apologies that this edition of my monthly comment recognition post is so late. Life has been especially hectic again this month!)
Thanks So Much!
I appreciate all your thoughtful comments! Thanks so much for taking the time to read and share your thoughts, opinions, ideas, experiences, and support at Writer's Notes! I truly enjoy reading your insights, experiences, and viewpoints! Thanks for making June another special month through your input! It's been fun!
June '08 Commenters
The following is a list (in no particular order) of all the fantastic folks who have left comments at Writer's Notes during June, 2008:
AmyHuang, at Travel String
Brad Shorr, at Word Sell, Inc.
Lillie Ammann, at A Writer's Words, An Editor's Eye
Raven, at Alaska Chronicle
Krissy Knox, at Sometimes I Think
Cindy Nichols, at Kaleidoscope
Renae Brumbaugh, at Morning Coffee
Dan (dcr), at dcrBlogs
Michele Tune, at Writing the Cyber Highway
Cheryl Wright, at Cheryl Wright Writes
Mike Goad, at Exit 78
Bobby Revell, at Revellian Dot Com
Morgan, at Red Raven Circling
Amy Derby, at Write From Home
TravelinOma, at TravelinOma's Library
Dianna G., at I Wish This Was 42
I Really Appreciate Your Comments!
Thanks, again for making the Writer's Notes conversation so much richer this month by visiting and sharing your thoughts, insights, techniques, advice, and personal experiences with us!
Many thanks,
Jeanne
* Haven't managed to write my last several comment appreciation posts on the first of the month, as I like to do. In fact, this month, I'm even later than I was last month--which was already later than usual! But, though I'm again late posting my thanks, please know that I appreciate your comments--and you--every bit as much as I do when I post my appreciation on time!
P.S. If you've commented at Writer's Notes during June, and I've somehow managed to overlook you, please let me know. I appreciate every commenter, and I want each of you to get the recognition you deserve!
Did you enjoy this post? Have anything to add...any insights to share? I'd love to hear your thoughts! After all, your comments are what this post is all about!
Please note: If the StumbleUpon and other social bookmarking buttons aren't visible, please click the "Add Comments" link beneath this post. Thanks!
May '08 Comment Recognition
Once again it's time to recognize my valued readers who have left comments at Writer's Notes during the month of May, 2008. (My apologies that this edition of my monthly comment recognition post is so late. Life has been especially hectic lately!)
Thanks So Much!
I appreciate all your thoughtful comments! Thanks so much for taking the time to read and share your thoughts, opinions, ideas, experiences, and support at Writer's Notes! I truly enjoy reading your insights, experiences, and viewpoints! Thanks for making May another special month through your input! It's been fun!
May '08 Commenters
The following is a list (in no particular order) of all the fantastic folks who have left comments at Writer's Notes during May, 2008:
AmyHuang, at Travel String
Brad Shorr, at Word Sell, Inc.
Lillie Ammann, at A Writer's Words, An Editor's Eye
Joanna Young, at Confident Writing
Raven, at Alaska Chronicle
Krissy Knox, at Sometimes I Think
Robyn McMaster, at Brain-Based Biz
Cindy Nichols, at Kaleidoscope
Yvonne Russell, at Grow Your Writing Business
Lynn Smythe, at Freelance Online Work
Renae Brumbaugh, at Morning Coffee
Whitney, at Gaming Life
Mark Antony, at Hotel Mark
Dan (dcr), at dcrBlogs
Mother Earth, at Best of Mother Earth ~ Creating Healthier Lives
Michele Tune, at Writing the Cyber Highway
Diane, at The Mommy Diaries
Amanda, at The Mom Crowd
Cheryl Wright, at Cheryl Wright Writes
I Really Appreciate Your Comments!
Thanks, again for making the Writer's Notes conversation so much richer this month by visiting and sharing your thoughts, insights, techniques, and personal experiences with us!
Many thanks,
Jeanne
* Haven't managed to write my last several comment appreciation posts on the first of the month, as I like to, due to my incredibly busy schedule. In fact, this month, I'm even later than usual! But, though I may be late posting my thanks, you may be certain that I still appreciate your comments--and you--every bit as much!
P.S. If you've commented at Writer's Notes during May, and I've somehow managed to overlook you, please let me know. I appreciate every commenter, and I want each of you to get the recognition you deserve!
Did you enjoy this post? Have anything to add...any insights to share? I'd love to hear your thoughts! After all, your comments are what this post is all about!
Please note: If the StumbleUpon and other social bookmarking buttons aren't visible, please click the "Add Comments" link beneath this post. Thanks!
April '08 Comment Recognition
Once again it's time to recognize my valued readers who have left comments at Writer's Notes during the month of April, 2008. (It's so hard to believe that May is here already!)
Thanks So Much!
I appreciate every one of your thoughtful comments! Thanks so much for taking the time to read and share your thoughts, opinions, ideas, experiences, and support at Writer's Notes! I truly enjoy reading your insights, experiences, and viewpoints! Thanks for making April another special month through your input! It's been a blast!
April '08 Commenters
The following is a list (in no particular order) of all the fantastic folks who have left comments at Writer's Notes during April, 2008:
AmyHuang, at Travel String
Brad Shorr, at Word Sell, Inc.
Lillie Ammann, at A Writer's Words, An Editor's Eye
Joanna Young, at Confident Writing
Laura Spencer, at Writing Thoughts
Raven, at Alaska Chronicle
Krissy Knox, at Sometimes I Think
Robyn McMaster, at Brain-Based Biz
John Hewitt, at Writer's Resource Center
Cindy Nichols, at Kaleidoscope
Yvonne Russell, at Grow Your Writing Business
James Rickard, at Angling Fish
Dances with Words
Lynn Smythe, at Freelance Online Work
Renae Brumbaugh, at Morning Coffee
Jill Browne, at Skip On Over
Scott, at Enterprising Energy
Joanne Fedler, at Secret Writers Business
Cheryl J. at Rhythmatism
Sharon Hurley Hall, at Get Paid to Write Online
I Really Appreciate Your Comments!
Thanks, again for making the Writer's Notes conversation so much richer this month by visiting and sharing your thoughts, insights, and personal experiences with us!
Many thanks,
Jeanne
* Haven't managed to write my last few comment appreciation posts on the first of the month, as I like to, due to my incredibly busy schedule lately. But, though I may be a day late posting my thanks, you can rest assured--I still appreciate you every bit as much!
P.S. If you've commented at Writer's Notes during April, and I've somehow managed to overlook you, please let me know. I appreciate every commenter, and I want each of you to get the recognition you deserve!
Did you enjoy this post? Have anything to add...any insights to share? I'd love to hear your thoughts! After all, comments are what this post is all about!
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A Wonderful ProBlogger Idea!
I've just learned from Sharon Hurley Hall, at Get Paid to Write Online, in her post, Appreciating Blogging Writers, that ProBlogger Darren Rowse has proclaimed April 14th, 2008 Blogger Appreciation Day. Read about it in his post, Today is Blogger Appreciation Day [UNOFFICIAL]. Apparently, Darren received three e-mails earlier today thanking him for all he's done for bloggers, and that prompted him to make this pronouncement. What a nice thought!
Darren's Suggestions
Darren recommends that we e-mail bloggers who have inspired, taught, or helped us in other ways and thank them--or better still that we thank them publicly on our blogs. And though April 14th is nearly at an end in Australia (and may even be over already in other parts of the world), it's the thought that counts, and I'd like to thank the following bloggers who have had a profound effect on me and my blogging during my past 15-plus months of blogging:
Joanna Young, at Confident Writing
AmyHuang, at Travel String
Michele Tune, at Writing the Cyber Highway
Raven, at Alaska Chronicle
Sharon Hurley Hall, at Get Paid to Write Online
James Rickard, at Angling Fish
Laura Spencer, at Writing Thoughts
Brad Shorr, at WordSell, Inc.
Liz Strauss, at Successful Blog
Krissy Knox, at Sometimes I Think
Dan, at dcr Blogs
Melissa Garrett, at Lis Garrett ~ Silver-Tongued Writer
Robert Hruzek, at Middle Zone Musings
K-IntheHouse, at ShanKri-la
Tracy, at Movies and Life
Cindy Nichols, at Kaleidoscope
Yvonne Russell, at Grow Your Writing Business
Lillie Ammann, at A Writer's Words, An Editor's Eye
Danielle, The Bipolar Diaries
Robyn, at Brain-Based Biz
Lynn Smythe, at Freelance Online Work
John Hewitt, at Writer's Resource Center
And last, but certainly not least,
Darren Rowse, at ProBlogger
Many thanks, everyone, for all you've done!
Sincerely,
Jeanne
Did you enjoy this post? Even if Blogger Appreciation Day is over, it's never too late to thank a blogger for doing something nice! Who would you like to thank and how?
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Inspiration: A Mysterious Influence
Inspiration: that powerful yet ethereal quality that’s impossible to adequately define or quantify. Every time we think we’ve grasped it, it flutters away in a totally new direction, leaving us to marvel at its breadth and wonder how we’ve managed to miss this latest nuance.
Inspiration: a concept so difficult to capture in all its splendor that touching on every facet of its subtle yet powerful influence would likely take an eternity, were it possible to achieve at all.
Yet, as elusive and mysterious as the concept is, most writers are intimately acquainted with the reality. Though we may lack the capacity to put its effect into words that adequately capture its meaning, we recognize the potency of the influence it exerts on us in our most creative moments. We realize that, of whatever mysterious substance it may be composed, inspiration is the spark that motivates us, moves us, animates us, as we seek to express our inmost thoughts in words upon a page. Were we to ask 100 writers to define the term, we’d likely get 100 different definitions—and therein lies the magic of inspiration.
A Recently Explored Theme Resurrected in April
During the month of March, Confident Writing coach Joanna Young explored the topic of inspiration. And while I’ve kept up with her wonderful posts as best I could, I haven’t been as involved lately in the Confident Writing conversation as I’d like to be. Due to a hectic writing schedule, I never managed to contribute to the recent “4 x 4” writing project*, which explored the sources of writing inspiration from the point of view of each blogger who entered. Since I’ve been planning for some time now to explore this theme, I think the month of April would be a great time to tackle the topic here at Writer’s Notes.
Inspiration: Where Does It Come From?
I won’t attempt to define inspiration here—though doing so is a wonderful creative exercise that every writer should engage in periodically just to keep the imagination sharp. I’ll discuss, instead, where inspiration comes from—which is right in line with the focus of Joanna’s “4 x 4” writing project (except that I won’t be following the “4 x 4” format).
Today’s post will explore people and some of the ways they can inspire us. In future posts I’ll discuss several other sources of inspiration (in no discernable order of importance) which I’ve found, in my own experience, contribute to a writer’s creativity.
Part 1: People, Positive and Negative
The potential of other people to influence our lives (in both positive and negative ways) is huge. No matter how much importance we assign to it, we could never overestimate the impact that one individual—through example, words, or actions toward us—can have on us as people or on our inner, creative lives. A single person can make an enormous difference in our entire outlook on life. And whether this person affects us in subtle or earth-shaking ways, his or her influence will be reflected in our writing.
Inspiration: A Positive Influence—Even in a Negative Situation
Inspiration is normally thought of as a positive, enlightening influence; and well it should be, because it is—even when it springs from negative or painful experiences, emotions, or interactions. This is because inspiration has the mystical ability to make something ugly, bad, unpleasant, wrong, or deceitful yield something beautiful, good, pleasing, right, and true. It's a bit of a miracle, really. While it may not actually alter the negative situation or person in any way, it changes us and the way we view the unhappy circumstances or unpleasant people that inhabit our lives. It helps us negate their power and weaken their influence, empowering us to move forward, to grow, and to create.
Inspiration is the mysterious power that revolutionizes our outlook, changing our focus from the negative interactions or examples themselves to the positive life lessons and inner transformations we’ve experienced as a result of them. These are rich reservoirs from which to draw meaningful material—and potent catalysts to creative growth.
Creating the Positive from the Negative
We’ve all met or heard of people whose nurturing interactions or uplifting stories have inspired us directly—without the unpleasant need for painfully processing the negative into the positive. And that’s the kind of inspiration on which we thrive. How we love those people! Thankfully, wonderful role models abound, and many of us are fortunate enough to have some of these fantastic people in our own personal spheres. Yet, even in the absence of such positive people, when we face the not-so-happy kind of inspiration with courage, purpose, wisdom, strength, and vision; we develop a balance that infuses us with the spirit of the overcomer. Such inspiration is hard-won but immensely valuable to the writer.
So, if you’ve experienced painful interactions with others—and who hasn’t?—don’t ignore this potentially fruitful path to inspiration, because it offers a rare opportunity to turn a negative into a positive and use it to fuel your creativity. There’s no question that such experiences take time to process…to work through…to begin to see objectively. But the results are always well worth the effort.
People: Choose to Let Them Inspire You!
It may seem as if I’ve dwelt a bit too much on the negative in this post—a rather unconventional practice in discussing inspiration, I think. Yet, the positive people we meet inspire us naturally, with very little effort on our part. It’s the difficult people and the unpleasant situations they create that endanger the health of our Muse—unless we learn to handle them in positive, constructive, and creative ways.
People can be an incredible source of inspiration for us as writers—whether or not they intend to be! The deciding factor is what we choose to do with the ideas and emotions they plant within us. So, choose to be inspired! It will make an incredible difference in your work!
May the people you’ve known and those you’ve known about become a living lesson for you. May they spark the inspiration that enables you to produce works of beauty, nobility, and grace—regardless of who they are or what they’ve done.
To your Muse!
Jeanne
* I'd previously stated in this post that Joanna Young tagged me for this project. She actually didn't. I somehow managed to mix this project up with a meme for which she did recently tag me. Therefore I've corrected that statement.
Did you enjoy this post? Have any ideas about inspiration to share? How have people sparked your creativity as a writer? I'd love to hear your thoughts!
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March '08 Comment Recognition
It's time*, once again, to recognize my loyal readers who have left comments at Writer's Notes during the month of March, 2008.
You Contribute So Much!
I appreciate each and every one of you--not to mention your comments! Thanks so much for taking the time to read and share your thoughts, opinions, ideas, and experiences here at Writer's Notes! I truly enjoy hearing what you have to say and reading your insights, experiences, and viewpoints! Thanks for making March such a special month through your input! I've so enjoyed it!
March '08 Commenters
The following is a list (in no particular order) of all the wonderful people who have left comments at Writer's Notes during March, 2008:
AmyHuang, at Travel String
Tracy, at Movies and Life
Brad Shorr, at Word Sell, Inc.
Lillie Ammann, at A Writer's Words, An Editor's Eye
Joanna Young, at Confident Writing
Laura Spencer, at Writing Thoughts
Robert Hruzek, at Middle Zone Musings
Lilla, at Enviro Warrior
Sonya 1, at Freelance Tips
Always Eighteen
Raven, at Alaska Chronicle
Krissy Knox, at Sometimes I Think
Dan, at dcr Blogs
Lis Garrett, at Lis Garrett ~ Silver-Tongued Writer
Howard, at Real Crash
Damo, at My Apologetics
Robyn, at Brain-Based Biz
Wayne F, at Bucket Movies
Shan Jayaweera, at Watching You Tube
John Hewitt, at Writer's Resource Center
Jackie Cameron
Jarrah, at Back to the Eighties
The Daily Sonnet, at Lots of Sonnets
Ellen Weber, at Brain Based Business
Mike Crowl, at Webitz
Patricia, at Travel Stripe
Cheryl Wright, at Cheryl Wright Writes
Lady Henrietta Muddling
Thanks So Much for Your Comments!
Thanks, again for making the Writer's Notes conversation so much richer by visiting and sharing your thoughts, insights, and personal experiences in response to my posts!
With many thanks,
Jeanne
* I usually write these comment appreciation posts on the first of the month, and it was indeed still the first of April in my time zone when this post was written! Unfortunately, I didn't quite manage to beat the clock in the GMT zone (Orble's time zone), which is seven hours ahead of PDT. (Came really close, though, clocking in at one minute past midnight GMT on April 2nd, which was 5:01 pm PDT, April 1st.)
P.S. If you've commented at Writer's Notes during March, and I've somehow overlooked you, please let me know. I appreciate every commenter, and I want each of you to get the recognition you deserve!
Did you enjoy this post? Have anything to add...any insights to share? I'd love to hear from you! After all, you know how much I love comments!
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Right, Wrong, and Law
The person who is devoted to doing good, to loving God, and loving people tends to do what’s right naturally. He doesn’t need to be told what to do. He doesn’t need to have the rules and regulations spelled out and placed before him repeatedly. And while he is by no means perfect, and even fails at times, he knows what’s right, and his goal is to do it.
He may occasionally need a little encouragement, a touch of inspiration, or a little reminder now and then—after all, none of us is perfect, yet—but by and large, his actions square with his personal ideals, which tend to mesh with society’s general consensus of good versus evil and of legal versus illegal.
Writing and Its Laws
In a similar sense, the writer who loves words, thoughts, and noble ideas, and is willing to surrender to her creativity and inspiration also tends to almost miraculously fulfill the “laws” of good writing. And while writing is, to a large extent, an intellectual exercise, there’s a sense in which the ability to write in this almost “exalted” manner is a matter of the heart and not the head.
In Writing, as in Law, Heart Can Neither Be Legislated Nor Taught
In the same sense that goodness cannot be legislated, inspiration and creativity cannot be taught. One can study and practice the principles of good writing all he desires; but if he lacks the spark of creativity… inspiration… imagination— of innate talent, if you will— the principles of writing will do him little good. His writing will be cold…dry…clinical—perhaps technically correct, yet lacking in heart.
Heart-Learning, as Opposed to Book-Learning
By the same token, the writer whose talent, creativity, and inspiration come from deep within may not be well-studied in the principles of “good” writing, the nuances of grammar, or the particulars of punctuation; yet he wields his words with power, delivers his message with impact, and wraps the fingers of emotion around the hearts of his readers in ways they couldn’t possibly understand. Like the person who does good without needing to be shown the laws that say he must, this writer is a law unto himself.
While far more could be said on this topic, these are a few of my musings about “the Law” as it applies to writing.
May you always be a law unto yourself when it comes to your writing!
Best wishes,
Jeanne
This post is my entry to the Middle Zone Musings “What I Learned From…the Law” group writing project.
Did you enjoy this post? What are your thoughts on creativity, inspiration, and the "laws" of writing? We'd love to hear them!
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February '08 Comment Recognition
It's time, once again, to recognize my loyal readers who have left comments at Writer's Notes during the month of February, 2008.
You Contribute So Much!
I so appreciate each one of your comments! Thanks so much for taking the time to read and share your thoughts, opinions, ideas, and experiences here at Writer's Notes! I truly enjoy hearing what you have to say, and reading your insights, experiences, and viewpoints is a pleasure! Thanks for making the month of February so special through both your visits and your input! It's been fun!
February '08 Commenters: The List
The following is a list (in no particular order) of all the wonderful people who have left comments at Writer's Notes during February, 2008:
AmyHuang, at Travel String
Joanne Fedler, at Secret Writers Business
Tracy, at Movies and Life
Brad Shorr, at Word Sell, Inc.
Lillie Ammann, at A Writer's Words, An Editor's Eye
Michele Tune, at Writing the Cyber Highway
Joanna Young, at Confident Writing
Laura Spencer, at Writing Thoughts
Robert Hruzek, at Middle Zone Musings
Lynn Smythe, at Freelance Online Work
Sharon Hurley Hall, at Get Paid to Write Online
Dianna G, at Fictional Worlds
Cindy Nichols, at Kaleidoscope
JP Shaw, at Sassy Ink Author
Lilla, at Enviro Warrior
Rosemary, at Alpaca Notes
James Rickard, at Angling Fish
Merle
Susan Keeping, of What's in a Word?
Rebecca Laffar-Smith, of Writers Round-About
Matt Jones, of Blogging Fingers
Tina
Mark Goodyear, at Good Word Editing
Yvonne Russell, at Grow Your Writing Business
Tom Colvin, at Becoming A Writer Seriously
Norm
Thanks So Much for Your Comments!
Thanks, again for making the Writer's Notes conversation so much richer by visiting and sharing your thoughts, insights, and personal experiences in response to my posts!
Gratefully yours,
Jeanne
Did you enjoy this post? Have anything to add...any insights to share? We'd love to hear from you! After all, you know how much we love comments!
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Be sure to drop by the Cafe for a visit!
Writer's Cafe Reopens This Friday
I'm excited to report that Yvonne Russell will be reopening her popular Writers Cafe, at Grow Your Writing Business this Friday, February 29th. I'm sure that everyone who's enjoyed gathering at Yvonne's place for a friendly chat about the writing life will agree that that's good news! Yvonne has been on hiatus lately due to unforseen circumstances--and also taken a much-deserved rest--and it will be fantastic to see her back! I know I speak for many other writers and bloggers when I say that both she and the Cafe have truly been missed!
Be Sure to Be There!
The grand reopening of the Writers Cafe will happen this Friday, so be sure not to miss it! As before, Yvonne's cyber cafe will be open every weekend, Friday through Sunday, giving writers and bloggers a wonderful place to congregate over the weekend, sharing inspiration, experiences, accomplishments, and encouragement with their peers. Be sure to bring along a cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa, and prepare to settle in with your favorite sweet--or not-so-sweet--snack. You're gonna love it!
Hope to see you there!
Jeanne
Did you enjoy this post? Have anything to add? What do you enjoy most about the Writers Cafe? If you're new to it, hope you'll stop by and introduce yourself! It's a very friendly group!
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A Friend In Need
When my blogging buddy, Michele Tune, learned of my family's battle with sickness, which prevented me from posting as often as usual, she did a very gracious thing: She wrote and sent me a guest post to help fill in the gap and take some of the pressure off me. (Now I know why I gave her the "Blogging Gem Award" recently: because she truly is one gem of a blogger!)
Now, on to Michele's post!
That’s What Writers Bloggers Are For
By Michele L. Tune
Since I've joined the online writing community, I've noticed how gracious other writers bloggers are. Offering up compliments, advice, tips, sharing markets, lessons for better writing... The list goes on. It's amazing how warm, caring, and kind the writing world is. I've grown to love it beyond words, as well as each of the amazing writers I come into contact with daily, including Jeanne! It's so encouraging to know there are other writers out there who understand what it's like to stay up all night writing, to write while being sick, or how it feels to have the writing career mocked like it's nothing more than lounging on a couch wearing jammies, sipping a latte, and playing on a laptop. It's just nice to belong, isn't it?
That's why when I read Jeanne's recent post, my heart melted. I sympathized with her illnesses and those of her family members, as I've struggled through many health issues, surgeries, and trials of illness myself. I have the special gift of also being able to empathize. I can feel other people's pain. My heart literally hurts for them. I think that's why when I write, I write with such emotion. I not only share my own heart, giving my readers a peek into my very soul, but envision the aching hearts of my readers and aspire to touch their hearts, stir their emotions, and make their day better. It's why I created my motto: Inspiring readers one word at a time...
Jeanne's "Please Bear With Me!" plea really got my attention. Bear with her? Why not help her? Why not use my talent with words to write a guest post and take a little pressure off? It's bad enough she has to tend to sick family members while not feeling well herself, meet clients' deadlines, and be superwoman overall, why should she have to worry about pleasing Writer's Notes readers with fresh and unique posts every day all on her own? That's where I come in.
So, do you want to know how to step up your writing game? I decided to share a few techniques I use as I write the cyber highway.
1. Be open. Let your readers in. Search deep inside your heart, sweep the cobwebs of your soul, and expose the real you. Your readers will feel comfortable knowing you’re genuine, that you care enough to write what’s hardest to write, and they’ll come begging for more.
2. Keep your eyes open. Just like this guest post, I saw an opportunity to help a writer friend while at the same time write for a new readership. It never hurts to guest post. I’ve made up my mind to do more of it this year. If you see a window of opportunity, crawl through! The person on the other end may very well love your idea and who knows where that will lead?
3. Get organized. I mention this often on my blog. If you know where you’ve sent your queries and submissions and when you sent them, you’ll be able to focus on actually writing instead of wondering. Make copies of your checks or print out PayPal invoices when you’re paid and staple them to your acceptance letters and contracts. Keep them in a file and update that file or make a new one each year. It’s refreshing, and inspiring, to be neat and be able to find things. It leaves more time for creativity and writing!
4. Listen. Eavesdrop. Pay attention! Some writers take a notebook and pen with them while they’re out and about, even jotting down snippets of conversation they overhear. That dialogue may set your fictional piece or novel on fire!
5. Care. Care about your writing, yourself, your readers, your work. Write from your heart, write often, write to engage your readers and bring them to the edge of their chairs. Don’t just rush off the first thing you write. Let it sit. Clear your mind for a day or so. Then go back with a fresh eye. Be willing to cut words or entire sentences or paragraphs to polish your piece and make it the best it can be.
I hope these five tips help you. Never think that you have no room to improve. Don’t feel like you have nothing left to learn. Writers evolve, change, and grow. We get better with time and practice, by studying and writing more.
And the next time you see a blogger friend struggling, help. Because that’s what bloggers are for!
Michele L. Tune is a Freelance Writer and Blogger. Find her at www.michele-tune.com or her blog, Writing the Cyber Highway
--
Kindest Regards,
Michele L. Tune
Inspiring readers one word at a time...
Freelance Writer & Blogger
www.michele-tune.com
Writing the Cyber Highway: a blog
ADDED NOTE: Michele has written an excellent blog review of the Writer's Round-About blog as an entry to Rebecca Lafarr-Smith's exciting contest. She has the opportunity to win $100 worth of books from Amazon.com. So, why not stop by, read her entry, Cyber Contest: Win Prizes from Amazon!, and give her your support by voting for it via Rebecca's You Decide The Winner! post. (You'll be able to read the other contest entries, as well, by using the links in Rebecca's post.)
Michele got my vote--not merely because she's a great person (though she certainly is that)--but because her post is excellently written and is also the only entry that followed every one of the contest rules--and then some! Also, if you'd like to Stumble her post, feel free to stop back by Writer's Notes and use the link. Check out her great post! The contest ends Saturday, February 16th. So, if you haven't voted yet, please vote before then! Thanks! (If you're reading this post after that date, visit her blog anyway! It's fantastic!)
Did you enjoy this post? Why not let Michele know it! Have any thoughts or experiences to share? Michele would just love to hear from you!
My Entry to the Middle Zone Musings Group Writing Project
The following is my entry to the MZM "What I Learned From...People" group writing project. I thought this was a particularly appropriate time to post this story, since its topic is illness, which is something my family has become very intimately involved with of late. Be sure to check out the other entries to Robert's writing project once he posts the links tomorrow, Monday. (It's still Sunday here in America.) I'm sure you'll learn a great deal from everyone's shared wisdom!
A Great Concept to Explore
Though it's basically too late to enter the group project, you might nevertheless consider using Robert's "What I Learned From...People" concept as a writing prompt to exercise your writing "muscles." It's bound to foster some real insight as you explore the experience you choose to write about. And it goes without saying that this exercise would make a great blog post--even without entering it into the writing project. You might even use the idea as the basis for a magazine or online article about a person you've learned something from, and make a little money in the process.
My Entry
What I Learned From a Physician With an Atrocious Bedside Manner
People can be fantastic teachers—whether or not they actually intend to be!
A Very Sick Family
More years ago than I care to count, when my oldest child was about four years old or so, our entire family became very ill: Mom, Dad, and children numbers One, Two, and Three. That was a lot of sick people to have in one house, believe me! We had such bad coughs that we could barely sleep at night, and our stomach muscles were so sore from coughing that we thought we’d die if something wasn’t done about it soon.
We were too sick to go to the pharmacy, and being new in town, we didn’t have our own doctor yet. Well, between sneezes, wheezes, and coughing fits, I did a little research and managed to find a pharmacy that actually delivered. (That, in itself was a small miracle!) I then chose a doctor’s name from the phone book and called his office, prepared to beg, if need be, to get my family some much-needed medicine to help get us through this horrendous illness.
A Compassionate Medical Assistant
As it turned out, I didn’t have to beg. It was late in the day and apparently the good doctor had already left. But his friendly, helpful, and compassionate assistant happened to be working that afternoon. (And as I would later learn after actually meeting the doctor, that was, for us, a large miracle.) I explained our situation to him, and he was very concerned. He agreed to phone in a prescription to the pharmacy which would then deliver it to us. I thanked him profusely between sneezes. I could hardly believe our good fortune!
Soon we had our medicine and some much-needed relief. We were ecstatic (at least as ecstatic as you can be when you’re down for the count with the world’s worst cold.) But our joy was to be short-lived.
Complications
Soon, I noticed that my oldest son was developing an angry red rash all over his body, along with a frighteningly high fever. After putting him into the bathtub, splashing him with tepid water to bring down his temperature, and doing everything else humanly possible to make him comfortable, I consulted Dr. Benjamin Spock. (Well, not personally—but through his book, Baby and Child Care. While I never went in for his permissiveness “gospel,” his advice always did come in handy where my children’s physical health was concerned.)
Through that well-known paperback book, I soon discovered what was wrong with my son: he had scarlet fever! There was no question in my mind! It was obvious! At any rate, I knew we needed to visit the doctor. By that time, we’d used up all the cough medicine the doctor’s assistant had prescribed, and we were once again coughing uncontrollably and feeling quite miserable.
Doctor’s Visit
Who better to call than the doctor whose assistant had so kindly helped us, I thought. (It seemed to make sense at the time.) I was so naïve in those days that I even thought that carrying in the huge empty bottle that had once contained codeine cough syrup would somehow lend credence to our illness, since his assistant had seen fit to prescribe it for my terribly ill and suffering family. I couldn’t have been more wrong. (But I’m wiser today because of it.) However, I was hardly prepared for the reception and treatment I actually received when I arrived at this doctor’s office.
Contentious Diagnosis
On carrying my son into the examining room, I set him down on the examining table and said, “I think my son has scarlet fever,” to which the doctor unceremoniously replied something to the effect of, “I’ll be the one to tell you what he has.” (I was a bit taken aback by his unfriendly demeanor.) He seemed annoyed that I might actually know what was wrong with my son.
He examined him and guess what he had, folks: yes, it was scarlet fever; yet this doctor wasn’t about to leave it at that. He actually accused me of trying to tell him how to practice medicine. Can you believe it? (Now, mind you, I hadn’t walked in boldly declaring that I knew beyond any doubt what was wrong with my son—or what the doctor should do about it [other than bringing in the empty cough syrup bottle, foolish as that was]—but had actually quite meekly stated what I thought was wrong with him. And though I really was all but sure I was right, I didn’t come across that way—at least not to anyone with a normal-sized ego.)
Insult to Injury
To add insult to injury (and this physician epitomized that unpleasant offense), despite the fact that I was coughing right in front of him there in the office, he refused to refill the prescription for the cough syrup that actually worked and that would have saved us so much misery over the coming days, telling me in no uncertain terms that he was writing one for Robitussin, which would, of course, never work for a cough such as we had. (I know, it was partly my fault for handing him the empty cough syrup bottle; but I believe he should have known what medication was the correct one for the problem. And who writes a prescription for Robitussin, anyway?)
Attitude Is Everything
I also know something else: his attitude was uncalled for, and that wasn’t my fault. He was unfriendly, uncompassionate, judgmental, and (dare I say it?) unprofessional. That was a very stressful time for my family and me. I was concerned about my son and the rest of my still-sick family, I was still sick myself, and I didn’t even have enough money to take a cab back home (as I had on the way in) but would be spending the last of my money to catch the bus home with my very sick son, which promised to be a long and strenuous trip on the small-town bus system where the buses didn’t run very often. It was an ordeal I dreaded, as I sat there in his office, feeling quite forlorn. But, did he show any concern? None whatsoever.
Insult Number Two
Aside from all of the above, do you know what this doctor said to me, when I told him that I’d had to take a cab to his office—which was quite a distance from where we lived and which I certainly couldn’t afford. “Your son is worth it.” But this wasn't a compassionate statement spoken on behalf of my son; it was a judgmental barb meant to point out what a bad mother I must be for even mentioning it.
Perhaps I should say, in his defense, that he didn’t know that I couldn’t afford the cab fare I’d spent to get there or that I didn’t have enough money to take a cab back home and that I’d be spending my last few dollars to even return home on the bus. But somehow I don’t really think it would have mattered to him, because, you see, he’d already made up his mind about me; and for some reason that to this day I don’t really understand, he simply didn’t like me.
Painful Experiences Teach Us Lessons
This was a painful experience for me, in part because it’s always difficult to be misjudged and misunderstood by others and in part because it’s even more difficult to be mistreated, by them, as well. But I have learned a few things from the experience. Here they are:
1. First Impressions Count; Give Yours a Little Advance Thought
Think about the impression you will make upon a total stranger if you do or say the thing you’re planning. It may seem, from your perspective, to be fine. It may even seem to be the right thing. But it may not seem so right from the other person’s point of view, and may in fact cause the person—who, after all, doesn’t have the benefit of knowing you—to think less of you.
So, put yourself in the other person’s shoes and try to see the situation as that person would. The exercise could prove quite revealing—and could save you untold misery. (Case in point: If I’d thought ahead about what it might look like to a doctor who didn’t know me to see me walk in with a large, empty codeine cough medicine bottle—that he had neither prescribed nor okayed—asking for a refill, I likely would have left the bottle at home.)
2. People Will Misjudge Your Motives; Explain Yourself
Those who don’t know you have nothing on which to base a judgment which attributes pure motives to your words or actions. They haven’t had the opportunity to learn to trust you, and therefore they will judge the things you say and do in a vacuum—well, not a complete vacuum, since, as we know, we all evaluate everything we see and hear through the filter of our own personal beliefs, experiences, and/or prejudices.
So, be prepared when people misjudge and misunderstand you, and do your best to act and speak in ways that will help to dispel those myths about your malevolent motives. This might include speaking up when necessary to explain some things that the other person may not understand about you or your circumstances (as in my concern about having spent most of the last of my money on cab fare to get my son to the doctor.)
3. Many People Are Prepared to Think the Worst of You; Prove Them Wrong
There actually are people who are constantly on the lookout for every negative thing they can discover—or dream up—about you and completely prepared to make the most of it at your expense. They may be arrogant, insensitive individuals with inflexible ideas who think they have a monopoly on wisdom and therefore have the world and everyone in it—you included—figured out.
Once they’ve made up their mind about you, they’ll sometimes go out of their way to be rude, sarcastic, and demeaning in their treatment of you, and you’ll have a tough time trying to convince them that they are wrong about you. Do, try, though. But, if the person is so inflexible that you’re simply unable to succeed, don’t take it to heart. (Easier said than done, I know.) But do your best to ignore it and move on. (In this case, I definitely took it to heart—and to be honest, it still hurts today, if I let it get the better of me.)
4. Experts/Professionals Do Not Always Enjoy Being Told Something by Common Folks; Ask, Don't Tell
Many professionals have quite large egos and can’t handle having us lowly peons take the wind out of their sails by informing them that we already knew what they’d hoped to impress us with by telling us themselves. Many—though by no means all—professionals, including doctors and lawyers, seem to believe that all their patients/clients are ignorant and uninformed about medicine or law, simply because they don’t have “MD” or “Esquire” after their names. This is too bad, as many of us engage in extensive research to learn what we need to know about our situations and are actually quite well-informed about these matters.
There’s little we can do with the egotistical professional, except perhaps speak our minds in a confident yet humble manner, deferring to their greater expertise, possibly by expressing our thoughts and concerns but asking their opinions. Should we disagree with their opinions, it would probably be best to do so through the roundabout route of asking questions rather than declaring our disagreement. Be prepared for the fact that this will not always work, though, in which case you may simply need to make that visit your last visit. (In my case, my first visit to this doctor was indeed my last.)
5. Be Thankful that Truly Unfriendly People Are in the Minority, And Appreciate the Friendly Ones
Meeting people like these always brings a greater appreciation for those who aren’t that way—or at least it should. It’s important to remember that while dealing with such abrasive and uncaring individuals is highly unpleasant, they are, thankfully, in the minority and our bad experiences with them can always be balanced against the good experiences we’ve had with other, more caring people (like the esteemed doctor’s compassionate young assistant who had stepped forward to help us when we were so badly in need of his help.)
Calling those more heartwarming experiences to mind more often, rather than dwelling on the heart-wrenching ones, can help renew our faith in our fellow man and counterbalance the great unpleasantness we’ve experienced in our dealings with the negative minority.
Hopefully, you've learned a few things along with me, as you've read my story of "What I Learned From...People".
Thanks so much for reading!
Jeanne
Did you enjoy this post? Have anything to add or any of your own wisdom-inducing experiences with other people to share? We'd love to hear from you!
One Illness on Top of Another
Just wanted to let my readers know that the reason I haven't been posting much lately has been that various members of my family have been ill with a number of different problems. We've all heard the saying, "When it rains, it pours." Well, that's what it's doing at our house, as well as among my remotely located relatives.
Both Locally...
I, personally, haven't yet fully come back to good health, myself, since before Christmas, with various manifestations/new strains popping up just when I've felt I was recovering from the old ones! Aside from that, my 19-year-old son just came down with a bad case of the flu a few nights ago, with a high temp of 103 yesterday, and my mom has been dealing with various health issues, as well.
And Remotely...
As if that weren't enough, I've also received phone calls/e-mails in the past three days or so that a few other close family members--close in relationship, though not in proximity--have had frightening medical episodes, including emergency trips and/or admissions to their local hospitals. So, as you can see, I've had a great deal on my mind, of late!
Writing Deadlines Also Loom
Aside from this, there are, of course, the usual regular writing deadlines for my contract writing clients, which, though I've managed to postpone a few--mainly by delaying the start of a sub-contract with a new client-of-a-client--have still kept me occupied more than I'd like to be at a time of family medical crisis--or more accurately, family medical crises.
Please Bear With Me!
So, please forgive me for not updating Writer's Notes, lately. I've really wanted to, believe me, and hope to return to doing so again very soon! In fact, if I'm able to manage to write a post which I'd like to enter into the Middle Zone Musings "What I Learned From...People" writing project before the deadline (which is Sunday night MZM time--which means Middle Zone Musings time--I'll be posting it here with a link to MZM. Hope I'll be able to manage it! Time will tell!
Thanks for your understanding!
Jeanne
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