Hello Ebi! Hello Fam!

I’m Falling into Fall y’all! What does that mean? Well, let me explain.

Take a Chill Pill

It has been just over five months! I did not expect to be gone for so long, but the universe felt that I needed to STOP. It’s Autumn/Fall, aka “The Beginning of the End.” Yeah, I know that reads a bit morbid. But there is good to be found when we approach the end of things, e.g., the beauty of changing leaves, discovering that chocolate is vastly better than vanilla, or even applauding the end of a toxic relationship. But in this instance, I had to stop or press “pause” after a rather disappointing and scary experience.

Challenges Ahead

So far, my ‘writerly’ journey did not bear the fruit I wanted. I received more rejections for my novel than expected and bawled when I lost my website and 4 ½ years of content for my blog. To say I was distraught was putting it lightly. But I came across an interesting article that helped put a few things in perspective: https://www.nownovel.com/blog/writing-a-book-for-the-first-time-challenges/

Light at the End of the Tunnel

During my break, I applied for mentorship opportunities and writing grants. (Check this out if you are an unpublished, marginalized writer or illustrator.) https://diversebooks.org/programs/walter-grant/ I started working with a new editor to help me see what may be missing from my novel. I’m seriously considering whether traditional publishing is meant for me. And thanks to a combination of divine intervention and the kindness of two colleagues, I did not have to rebuild my site!  

As I push aside the giant STOP sign, I’ve started again, productive and energized. Sometimes we realize that not all detours are bad and the obvious path is not always the best. So, as the trees begin to shed their leaves and make room for new beginnings, I will do the same.

Happy Fall Y’all and Blessings! You can check out my earlier content at: http://sharonlmitchell.com

Come again soon!

S-