The announcement from the lifeguard floated loud and clear over the lake. “Camp Sunnyside Buddy Check!” The kids splashed and kicked through the waters to link up with their assigned buddy. Were they in sight? Swimming over their heads? Obeying the rules or cutting up with other campers? Or wandering off by themselves way out of reach? This systematic check was a successful method for keeping everyone safe while still having fun.
We need buddies in our writing journey. Our writing buddies will encourage us when we’re overcome by waves of exhaustion, hold on to us when we feel like we’re drowning in rejections and keep us afloat and in the right direction when we start to lose sight of the dream. All this while still having fun.
A shout-out today to some of my writing buddies- steadfast Jorlyn sharing goals and inspirational quotes every month. Connie, my Tennessee gal bringing encouragement and accountability. Vonda, my friend, mentor and cheerleader from day one. Judy and Anne, my southern gals lending their sweet support. New local friend (yea!) Elaine, sharing writing news and tips while featuring a blog promoting other authors. Dear Melody, who has offered continual positive feedback. And all those new friends I connected with at Blue Ridge this year – looking forward to sharing and supporting you all in your writing efforts.
Do you have a group of writing buddies? They don’t have to be in your local area, most of mine are in contact through email or phone. I’d love to be your “buddy” and encourage you along the way sharing links, tips, announcements, writing ops and support. Either leave a comment on this post or subscribe to my blog and I will be in touch.
If you do have writing buddies, please share about some of your favorites in a comment!
Hi Cynthia!
I have 6 writing buddies and they each bless me in different and unique ways. 🙂 They kick me into gear when I need it, encourage, teach, lead, forgive and most importantly–pray with me. 🙂 Even though we are all many thousands of kilometers apart (I’m in Australia and they are scattered throughout the US) we are joined in the eternal bonds of friendship.
I had an incident recently that needed urgent prayer. I sent an email off requesting prayer and they all responded, prayed and God went to work, not only in my life, but also in my heart.
I’d be very lost without my critique partners/writing buddies. My life is richer, fuller and definitely more blessed. 🙂
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Comment by Lucy Morgan-Jones — August 4, 2012
Hi Lucy,
You definitely prove that distance is not a problem. How wonderful that you have such faithful writing partners! I’m sure it makes a huge difference in your motivation and encouragement.
Thanks for stopping by and hope your writing continues to be blessed of God.
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Comment by admin — August 6, 2012
Cynthia, heartfelt thanks for the sweet mention of me in your blog. After reading your segment, my eyes misted. I’m not used to being part of a “tribe” but have been becoming part of many more lately than not and it feels so good. You’re so right on: we all need each other!
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Comment by Elaine Stock — August 5, 2012
Elaine,
I am so glad that we have connected and I’m still rejoicing in the fact that we don’t live too far from each other. What a blessing! I think you are accomplishing great things with your blog and helping so many other authors. Looking forward to getting together again and sharing more writing successes!
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Comment by admin — August 6, 2012
Thanks for the honorable mention, Angel Girl. You are the bomb! My friend, Veronica Johnson, has just handed over her “baby” into the capable hands of her publisher after months of editing. He said,as gently as possible, “It’s OK to let it go.” Easy for him to say. The emotional separation affected me, too. I assured her that the feeling was normal. . .easy for me to say. Yep, friends and mentors are priceless. Thank you for being with me through the storms. When I could not see the sun, your prayers and concern made the difference. I will be eternally grateful.
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Comment by Melody — August 6, 2012
Melody,
I am thankful we have stayed in touch all these years. You are one of the brighter memories from that first conference long ago. It sure feels like long ago! And look how far God has brought us…
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Comment by admin — August 6, 2012