"If it's free, it's advice; if you pay for it, it's counseling; if you can use either one, it's a miracle."
~Jack Adams
I will be giving free advice today. I can promise you it will be worth every penny. But first, a miraculous tale...
Months ago, I wrote a gut-wrenching story called Window Watcher. I submitted it, as usual, to several publications. As usual, they all politely declined. As usual, I assumed the story sucked in some way that was invisible to my infatuated eye.
I re-re-read it and re-re-tweaked it each time. Then I sent it out again. And again. Seasons passed.
Then the world turned, and I got a miraculous e-mail from an editor. She said she doesn't normally do this, but she tweaked the story, and asked if I minded her changes. No, you did not hallucinate. Let me say it again: SHE tweaked the story.
This was the single most generous action from an editor that I had ever experienced. For once, a publication looked past the grime on the window and saw the little, sputtering lamp beyond.
Now the advice...
Never, ever, ever, (infinity plus one) ever give up on your work. Fiddle with it if you must, but I can just about guarantee that there is a kindred spirit out there somewhere that gets you, understands what you're saying, and feels what you feel.
So? Now what?
Now, go claim your miracle.
~ Mick, S.D.G.
