Last September, I attended the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) conference in St. Louis, Missouri. It was my sixth conference, and I felt more confident than ever that I arrived with something to offer.
I had wonderful, encouraging meetings with an agent who I respect both professionally and personally. I believed we would work well together, and I was encouraged by the positive feedback I received from her. She requested that I send a proposal and first three chapters from the novel I presented. Several times during the conference, I had unplanned opportunities to spend time with her, and I came home excited to see what God had in store.
Last week, I received an answer from the agent. She could have just sent a form letter, but instead, sent a lovely, personal note. Unfortunately, it wasn’t what I wanted to hear. Although she felt I have talent and would love to work with me, she needed to decline. In the past, she hadn’t experienced success with the “type of story” I proposed.
I was stunned and disappointed. My confidence was shaken. And to be honest—my ego was bruised. I believed so strongly that God had directed and was right in the middle of everything that had transpired during that conference—and I still received a “no.” I still don’t have a clue as to what “type of story” she referred to.
But you know what? Authors who had been praying for me sent their own notes of encouragement—and relayed their own “war” stories on the journey to publication. They reminded me that God is still in control and knows what’s best for me—whether it be the people I work with or the timing of successes.
For a moment, I’d forgotten that for years my life verse has been: “‘For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord. “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future’” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV).
Some writers have searched, prayed, and waited for God to give them a verse or “word’ to take with them into the new year. Some have been given words like: passion, courage, trust, and compassion. In December, I wrote a blog post called A Season of Hope. I realized as I asked for my “word” for the year, it was to be “hope.”
It sure didn’t take long for me to be presented with a situation where I had to focus on hope. I guess God knew I’d need that word sooner than later.
My little incident is so insignificant compared to what many people are striving with on a daily basis. Some don’t know if they’ll be able to hold onto their homes, if they’ll be able to put food on the table, or if a loved one will survive a terrible disease.
But this recent experience was a reminder of how important it is to not only have hope, but to help restore it to others. My author friends helped restore my hope …
“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.” ~ Proverbs 13:12 NIV
I want to help restore hope for those who have little or none. Will you join me?
~ Dawn
Oh, sweet lady. I’m so sorry that she declined. But, God has instilled that hope in your heart for a reason. He has plans for you, as you know, and your ministry will continue on. A big hug to you from the sunny South.
Thanks, Angie, for your encouraging words! They’re much appreciated!
It dazes us when we have an unexpected no, loss, exit or event (or even when an expected challenge materializes and we must face it). You are in the good company of Believers who keep dusting off sorrows, fears and disappointments, and who dig in for the wait that God can require. Offering ‘Hope’ as a focus is a beautiful, timely, strengthening reflection. Bless your heart.
Thanks for visiting, Mickey, and sharing your thoughts and supportive words. We need to be there for each other, don’t we? I truly believe that hope changes everything in our lives. It changes our perspective, attitudes, and willingness to keep trying. It also helps to keep us focused on the ultimate prize – eternal life in the presence of our Lord, where there will be no more striving. Just joy and peace.
Ouch! that does hurt. This writing business is not for those who give up easily. The Lord put those stories in your heart for a reason. And He will provide a way for you.
This year I had a similar result and have decided to jump the fence and publish my own through the e-book Amazon, route. I am excited, realize it won’t be easy, but really, just which part of this writing life has been easy? : )
Praying for you that you would keep on the path the Lord has set you on.
Blessings and praying that your hope be fulfilled this year!
Hi Patrica,
Thanks for stopping by. I appreciate your comments and encouraging words. You’re right … this business is not for those who aren’t willing to go the distance, no matter how difficult it gets. Only those who love it will have the endurance to stick with it–whatever path they take, whether it be traditional or self-publishing.
Kudos for doing what you feel is right for you and taking the non-traditional route. I’ve been watching other authors take the plunge, and although self-publishing brings with it another set of challenges, it seems to work really well for some.
I hope your experience with self-publishing is amazing! Please keep me updated on how it’s going for you!
May you be richly blessed!