PAYING IT FORWARD

 by Patricia Bradley

When I got really serious about writing, I didn't know what I didn't know. All I did know is that I wanted to be a published author. I had a book I'd been working on for five years. When it won first place in a contest sponsored by a writing conference I attended, it also offered an opportunity to submit my completed manuscript to a Love Inspired Suspense editor. I was certain I would land a book contract before the year was out.

Not. Like I said, I didn't know what I didn't know. That manuscript, which included an SASE (Self-addressed-stamped envelope for those who don't know what that means) practically came back by return mail. It was that bad. The only reason I won the Inspirational division of the contest is the other entries must have been really bad. Or maybe it was because I'd worked on that first chapter for five years, perfecting it while neglecting the other chapters.

Every author begins writing at the starting line not the finish line, and someone coaches them along the way. I knew I had a good story line, I just didn't know how to execute it. Enter two authors who poured their knowledge and experience into me and my writing during four retreats over four years. 

Each year I built on what I leaned, and by the third year, I had a publishing contract--on that book that the previous editor had rejected. BUT, it was a much different book than I submitted to her, thanks to what I learned at the retreats. Which brings me to the title of the post. Someone had helped both authors when they first started out, and now they were paying it forward by helping other writers. 

Paying it forward is something we all should do, not just authors. We all have talent and there is probably someone who would like to engage in your particular talent, only they may not know how to go about it. I've mentored people in pottery and knitting, and writing. 

One of the ways I pay it forward with writers is to offer constructive critiques and judge contests that offer feedback. Not only is it fun for me, any time I help someone, I always learn something so that's a win-win! 

So, who have you helped lately? Leave a comment and I'll enter you in a drawing for a $10 Amazon e-gift card.