In which I follow my own advice.

I just finished reading an awesome book. And it makes me want to write. So bad.

I haven't had this urge to write since finishing Doorways, really. And I love this feeling.

Even if it feels a lot like I'm going nuts.

My mind's whirring thoughts past so fast, I can't even really see them. I just know they're there. Hopefully, once I start writing, they'll pin down and I can write.

Right now is sort of inconvenient, though, since I'm still smack in the middle of edits. But you know what? I've been thinking.

While I wrote my previous post, I kept thinking of this once scene in the movie Center Stage. Now, I suspect that the ballet movie probably won't fall in everyone's tastes, but bear with me.

See in that movie is a scene that stayed with me ever since I saw it.

Basically, one of the main characters wants to be a Prima Ballerina, but feels like no one's giving her the chance she deserves. One evening, one of the teachers catches her practicing and gives her advice.

It's a bit of a long time since I watched the scene, but the gist is this:

No matter what, go back to the practice bar. If something goes well, go back. If someone upsets you. Go back. If you lose out at an audition, go back. Never give up. One day, your dedication will pay off.

That's the same for us writers. No matter what, we have to go back to writing. If someone gets an agent and you don't, write. If you're stuck on sub, write. If you feel like no one will see the talent you know you're gifted with, write. If you feel like you're not getting anywhere. If you missed out on yet another contest. If you missed a requested for partials by this much. If you're terrified of how your book will be received on the eve of publication.

Write. 

Write. 

Write. 

That dedication will pay off in some form.

And you know what? While I don't have a looming deadline on edits waiting, I'm going to follow my own advice. Who's with me?