There's No Crying in Writing!

Everyone loves that scene from "A League of Their Own" when the all-women's baseball team is lectured by their manager, played by Tom Hanks, that there's no crying in baseball!

Well, I'm blogging to tell you that there's no crying in writing, either.

Or is there?

I recently saw a writer speak about her journey. She's been a published author for over ten years, has written over thirty books, has one of the top agents in the business, and is contracted with a big time traditional publisher.

And yet, she still has to work a day job to make ends meet.

After hearing her inspirational story, I can admit that I was more disillusioned than inspired. I mean, she's been in the business a long time now. She has thirty books out! Why isn't she rich and famous yet??

So why am I in this crazy business of writing? Why would I want to go through all that work and never make it to where I can write full time? I've written eight books now and self-publish. I have tried for the last nine years to land an agent, but no such luck. I have readers, but work full time so I don't have the time or money to do marketing other than social media sites. I sell books, but not thousands of copies.

So, I ask again, why am I in this crazy business?

Well, I can't help but think about that book (and subsequent movie...) "Goodbye, Mr. Chips" by Hilton. Perhaps you've read the book or have seen the award-winning film?

Goodbye Mr Chips

The main character, Mr. Chipping, is an English schoolmaster at Brookfield school. Year after year, "Chips" teaches generations of boys in his kind and gently manner, all the while hoping to one day be chosen as Headmaster of the school, only to be passed over year after year.

But, in the end, Chips realizes that, although his dream is never realized, he has helped shaped the lives of many young men who come to him and thank him for all his hard work and caring heart.

This book helped me endure four years of teaching middle school, where I knew for sure I wasn't making a difference, but I was proven wrong year after year.

As with writing, I need to realize that my dream of being a traditionally published author may never happen. And I am okay with that. I know many children have read my books. I know I have made them laugh and cry with my stories. I know I have made a difference in a small way.

Like Mr. Chips, I now know that I serve a bigger purpose than just being a writer. I have many more stories to tell. Stories that will inspire and encourage my readers.

After all, isn't that why we're in this crazy business?

So, sit up straight. Take heart. Chin up! And never forget: There's no crying in writing!