Passing on the Blessings

Last Friday, I got to do something very special. I returned to the campus where I attended college and spoke to a class of English majors. This made me so happy.
You see, years ago, when I was a student, another author came to speak to one of my classes. And she became a mentor, steering me in the right direction, and helping me meet people who would later become my publishers. And since becoming a published author, I have so many other authors help me figure things out and learn. I wouldn't be where I am today without all those people who shared their knowledge and experience. To be able to share at least a little of that with others is an amazing feeling.
So many people say that being an author is a lonely occupation, but I haven't found it to be so. I am surrounded by other authors and people in the industry who walk with me and beside me. Got a question? I have half a dozen different places I can ask it and get a good answer. Need help figuring something out? Same thing.
Standing there in that classroom, sharing just a bit of the knowledge I have gained over the years, it felt like I was exactly where I needed to be. So many have blessed me in my publishing walk. How can I not pass it on?
I am also blessed to be part of a program the school offers where students interested in pursuing that career field can email an alum who is already in it. I've answered several emails this semester of students with questions about being an author. I try not to overwhelm them. ;)
Do you try to find ways to pass on the knowledge you've gained in your life? It's such a thrill and I highly recommend it.
By the way, I also ended up being on the news that day! You can see more about that here. News Article