I Know You Are, but What Am I?
A cursory review of almost any literary website's discussion group threads will reveal that a lot of people know exactly what they are. Many profess to be a professional author, editor, blogger, and/or book reviewer. I envy them because I am not quite sure what I am.
Although I attended a Roman Catholic seminary for four years, I realize that I am not a priest. My 35-year marriage to my late wife and five children further attest to that fact. Serving a tour of duty in the U.S. Marine Corps back in the 1960's does not qualify me to claim the title of professional soldier. Playing the guitar and electric bass in a band for eight years convinced me that my musical talent was insufficient to make a living as a professional musician. My one and only novel was published five years ago. The dismal sales attest to the fact that I am not a professional author. Though I often post a rating and review of the many books I read, they are merely my personal opinion, not a professional evaluation. Access to this blog is limited to the Goodreads literary website and has only ninety regular followers, so a professional blogger I am not.
So, I know what many others are because they have told me. But what am I?
Although I attended a Roman Catholic seminary for four years, I realize that I am not a priest. My 35-year marriage to my late wife and five children further attest to that fact. Serving a tour of duty in the U.S. Marine Corps back in the 1960's does not qualify me to claim the title of professional soldier. Playing the guitar and electric bass in a band for eight years convinced me that my musical talent was insufficient to make a living as a professional musician. My one and only novel was published five years ago. The dismal sales attest to the fact that I am not a professional author. Though I often post a rating and review of the many books I read, they are merely my personal opinion, not a professional evaluation. Access to this blog is limited to the Goodreads literary website and has only ninety regular followers, so a professional blogger I am not.
So, I know what many others are because they have told me. But what am I?
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Christine wrote: "I'm assuming your question is rhetorical - but I've been known to answer regardless. You, my friend, are honest and have obviously enjoyed a full and satisfying life. There is no label needed in yo..."Christine,
As always, your personal observations regarding the subject are astute, informative and worth serious consideration. An old, often quoted, business axiom supports your philosophy: "Your work speaks for itself. Don't Interrupt!"
Thank you for remaining one of the oldest and most loyal followers of this blog. Your personal input and informative comments are always welcome and very much appreciated.
Jim Vuksic
A Renaissance man! - interested in many things, and able to do many things.
Alicia wrote: "A Renaissance man! - interested in many things, and able to do many things."Alicia,
Thank you for the complimentary response and for once again expending the time and effort to view and comment upon a blog post. Your input is always most welcome and appreciated.
Jim Vuksic
I think you sell yourself too short, Jim.Your accomplishments as a solid citizen and a family man are many and valuable.
I know it's customary for our generation to be modest, and our parents were worried that we would get swelled heads if we were praised, but I think they overdid it - made to feel adequate would have been more balanced.
In my opinion, Jim, the only important labels are that you've lived your life fully, to the best of your ability; that you have been loved by and have loved your family deeply; and that when you are gone (not soon, hopefully), you will be remembered and missed by your family and friends who survive you. And about your book that you feel didn't go as far as you wished, you need to remember that because you wrote it, it will remain a part of the world long after you're gone. That's something to be really proud of doing. No regrets!
Linda wrote: "In my opinion, Jim, the only important labels are that you've lived your life fully, to the best of your ability; that you have been loved by and have loved your family deeply; and that when you ar..."Linda,
Your comment is very thoughtful, complimentary, and very much appreciated.
I am truly flattered that you took the time to read not only the most recent blog post, published today, but also this one, posted on Sept. 8, 2016, along with a couple of other past posts.
Thank you very much.
Jim Vuksic
I always believed adopted labels were a form of self-fulfillment - a way to give life structure, and assume a desired professionalism that may or may not exist - much like the "dressing for success" principle. Such a self-identity label often allows one to determine and influence their own behavior - a self-fulfilling prophecy, if you will, causing the individual to, in fact, adopt that persona. How adept they become depends on many factors. When they embrace these attributes fully and accurately, the label becomes redundant.
In today's literary world, many writers bump up their titles to give the appearance of professionalism, yet have no desire to pursue such attributes. They believe these convoluted titles will sell more product, get more hits, and make them look more important.
Personally, I take little notice of self-appointed labels - behavior and ability are the accurate markers. Labels don't make you a professional - just like wearing a suit and expensive shoes won't make you a lawyer.