Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Ego drain or ego boost?

At first I was kind of bummed out that my short story didn't get picked as a finalist for the WD _Your Story_ competition. My husband was even kind enough to have some strong words for the editors who chose the final 5 to be voted on by readers.
But then I realized--I wasn't just bummed out--I was actually surprised! Why does that matter? Because it showed me that I beleive in my work, and that I think it's interesting and should be enjoyed. Silly as that sounds, it was a lightbulb moment for me as a writer.
I am still hopeful for a new writer's contest I entered for Glimmer Train online. Their decision date is Oct. 31. Scary? Yes. But also invigorating. I can't help but smile when I check on my submission and see that it is still "in process", which means not yet rejected.
And you know what? I believe I have a chance at winning.
Hope springs eternal!
As Beckett said, "No matter. Try again, fail again, fail better."