I don't become disappointed very often. I am a pretty upbeat kinda person. But, my plans for heading to RWA's National Conference were derailed. I'm bummed. I have a dog who is ill and I just couldn't leave her. I'd love to be there and see all of you great folks. My list of "who I wanted to meet" is long. These things happen.
I wrote last week about loosing a friend's dog. At that time I didn't realize we were probably about to lose ours. It's hard to make the decisions that go with life and with responsibility. Our children, the rest of our family--they depend on us.
Early this morning I had a tough conversation with a close friend who lives in Italy. She needed me to be honest and let her know that she had choices. Difficult choices, but she was in the driver's seat. My husband overheard the entire conversation and commented that I had been the best friend she could have (thank you, dear husband). But, it was hard. I was tough on her.
It's difficult to make those choices. When do you really tell the truth and when do you worry about hurting someone's feelings?
Since we talk about writing on this site, it all comes back around. If I am writing a complicated scene, how do I know I have the emotion spot on? How can I make you cry? Or, laugh?
As I realize I'm disappointed in not being in Orlando, well?? What does that mean? Can I turn it into something that you can care about? As I help my pup down the stairs and help her with getting out doors, does that change how I tell my stories? Being disappointed, hurt, angry, in love, thrilled, or whatever emotion we identify must influence what we write. Finding the right words to share that, well, that's the challenge isn't it?
9 comments:
It is tough to miss out on a conference. It is tough to be honest with a best friend. It is especially tough to lose a pet.
But you certainly did well in this post conveying your emotions. I hope I can look on emotional setbacks and emotional highs as inspiration for scenes in books instead of inspiration for a big pile of chocolate.
I'm sorry you weren't able to get to National this year.
I told Kebi you were looking after a sick pup and if I didn't know better he understood. I hope he's feeling better.
And yes, getting the right words in a scene to get the emotion across isn't easy. Last night I was reworking a murder scene. Beautiful emotion. Problem. The scene were on and on with no apparant end, then out of the blue, actually dark as it was night when I got the idea. I let the sun tell what happened. Came out fantastic. (See me patting self on back and not throwing arm out).
Sorry to hear about about your poor pup, Cassy. But you have to do what you have to do, and treasure what time you have left. As for RWA, there's always next year.
Sometimes giving someone the straight skinny is hard on all concerned. Especially when they don't want to hear it. Or don't know how to listen.
Still smarting from all the sharp implements I've suddenly discovered jutting from my back.
Thanks, everyone. I really appreciate not only the support but also the comments that what I wrote caught your attention. My thoughts are with each of you as you face whatever the day brings. Best, Cassy
Aw, Cassy, that's tough. I'm sorry for the whole situation. And hope to hear good news about pup?
Cassy,
I really missed seeing you. I really hope all is okay with you.
Great blog about emotional setbacks. I can relate.
Mary
Welcome home M&M ladies
Cassy, I just read this and my heart goes out to you. Sending hugs and prayers
So sorry about your dog, Cassy. I know this is one of life's toughest times, and I wish you both well.
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