Chasing the Rainbow
Well, it’s the right month for it! Rainbows and St Patrick’s and March all go together. As writers, are we chasing the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow?
Before we chase rainbows, let’s be sure that we put our best effort forth so that we earn that gold. Is your book well-edited and your printing choice readable? I remember I did one of my first books in point nine font to be sure I could get all my thoughts on the page. They were wonderful thoughts, but so tiny that an insect would have trouble deciphering them!
And so, we ask each other questions like these: How do I sell more books? Where can I place my books? Will anyone out there buy my book?
It takes energy to flog your writing. It takes help from friends, and it requires keeping up with the current trends. Fellow writers might plan a group giveaway or display. Someone might rent a hall and ask for others to step in and display. Your library might have a reading gig. The choices are endless.
The sad truth is that we have to get our name and our book out so that people see it and want it. For me, this often means giving my books away. What does it hurt? The books are bought and paid for and taking up space under my bed. They might as well do someone some good!
I see my true job not in the writing but in the sharing of my faith. I can’t do that if I hog my books to myself and chase the pot of gold instead of the joy of the rainbow.
A grieving spouse gets a gift to The Pregnant Pause of Grief. Conversation with my waitress might result in me giving her Short and Sweet, my latest devotional. I want to change lives. I want people to know the Jesus I know.
Don’t gamble on the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, pawning your house against a lucky chance. The time will come when you have to pay up; you’ll be left with nothing but the shirt on your back. (See Proverbs 22:26-27 MSG.)
Someone calculated the value of a pot of gold. A large teapot filled might hold about 250 ounces of gold, valued at approximately $500K. A lot of money, yes. But how does that compare to the value of a soul won for the kingdom?
Brenda J. Wood is a motivational speaker and author of more than 50 books who shares with faith, commonsense wisdom, a sense of humour, and quirky comments. Read her daily devotionals at everydaychristian.com Her favourite things include guest speaking, writing a good book, (and reading one!), a warm fire, and walking on snow-free pavement. Brenda is now a great grandmother, which is amazing since she is only 29!