In Joy

From spark of an idea to published book, I witnessed the span of the writers’ life one sunny Saturday.

I started my day leading a writing retreat in a beautiful space on the banks of the Meramec River. A dozen writers had gathered to reflect and find a quiet spot to put pen to paper. Our intent: to notice, like a poet. To allow a simple prompt to meet us in the moment and reveal our heart’s insights. The Muse did not disappoint, which it seldom does when invited in. The well-deep silence led to gentle conversation. Each writer left with more words on the page than they’d started with, blank pages transformed from threat to companion.

That afternoon, in a corner ballroom under the Gateway Arch on the Mississippi riverfront in St. Louis, four dozen or so published authors clustered together, their display tables end-to-end, covered in back catalog copies, new additions, and swag goodies. These authors know the highs and lows of the writers’ life – including the unmitigated joy of reading their words on printed pages, bound together by a glossy cover. Crack it open and take a deep breath of that new book smell.

Their book fair is one way to find readers and “move some paper,” as Colbert used to say. The gathering was for readers, sure, but the authors also discovered a circle of co-writers who’ve brought their dream to reality. I’ve read that over 82% of us want to write a book, but less than 1% actually finish and publish one. I am part of that 1%. Late afternoon sunlight poured in on a circle of creators who’ve shown up for their words from first blank page to sales display. All for the love of the work.

The joy of that morning by one river carries me through to the banks of the other. The joy of finding my voice, the words, and arranging them on the page. Bonus Points when they’re received and appreciated by a reader. And the Happy Dance authors do when readers trade their money for the experience of being with us on the page. Then the cycle begins again – from that joy, out of gratitude – with the support of our fellow explorers on the page.