Writers Beware! Rejection Ahead!

It happened. I’ve been writing for three years, and it has now happened – rejection letter. Not one, but three. I’ve entered contests, and not placed, got feedback and judges’ score sheets that were unflattering, but this is my first experience with rejection letters. Three in one day! Oh, I've won contests, had some things published, but still.....

In the beginning of my pursuit of a writing career, I would’ve been ready to open a vein and bleed out my devastation and discouragement. Not literally, of course, but I would’ve been ready to throw in the towel. I would’ve asked myself and God if I’m really cut out to be a writer.

Am I disappointed? Yes! Does it hurt? Yes! But I am not giving up! That day, Thursday of last week, I kept trying to squeeze out tears, wondering why I didn’t feel worse. By the way, it was short stories, all for the same magazine, and I felt really confident about my stories when I submitted them– each a week apart.

I feel a peace that can only come from God.  It is He who has brought me along this writing journey during this season of my life. Sometimes when I doubt and struggle with my capabilities as a writer, He reminds me of this. As in all things, His timing and purpose is perfect. I know I need to hone the craft of writing more. I have a lot to learn and apply to my writing. But He is faithful. He never fails.

I love the words of this song, Oceans (Where Feet May Fail), by Hillsong United. Read it and think of how it applies to you and whatever journey you are on, writing or otherwise.

You call me out upon the waters
The great unknown where feet may fail
And there I find You in the mystery
In oceans deep
My faith will stand

And I will call upon Your name
And keep my eyes above the waves
When oceans rise
My soul will rest in Your embrace
For I am Yours and You are mine

Your grace abounds in deepest waters
Your sovereign hand
Will be my guide
Where feet may fail and fear surrounds me
You've never failed and You won't start now

Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders
Let me walk upon the waters
Wherever You would call me
Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander
And my faith will be made stronger
In the presence of my Savior

May your prayer be that His spirit will lead you where your trust is without borders, and you walk upon the waters wherever He would call you. Allow Him to take you deeper than your feet could ever wander, and your faith will be stronger in the presence of Him, your savior. Tell yourself, “He believes in me.” He loves you more than you can imagine. 

Oh, and do you want to know what I did? I immediately began writing a new story to submit to this magazine.