A small tribute to my father

When I was first trying to get published (I’d written a picture book manuscript) I sent it off to a dozen publishers, and they all rejected it. One night as I was walking to get the mail, I was thinking about this and wondered if I should really pursue writing or not. I’d always liked it, but then, I’d always liked dancing, singing, and acting, and I wasn’t trying to pursue a career as a dancer, a singer, or an actress. I wondered if writing should be put in  the same category. I said a prayer, asking for direction.

I took the mail out and saw a letter from The New Era Magazine. I thought that was strange since we didn’t get The New Era. Then I opened the envelope and saw that it was an acceptance letter. I thought that was even stranger since I’d never submitted anything to them. Then I remembered that Dad had told me he was going to submit one of my short stories.

That incident was one of the few times my prayers have been immediately answered. I knew as I held that letter in my hand, that I was supposed to pursue writing.

The rest as they say is history. I’m glad I had such a supportive father.