Everyone seeks to be understood, in some way or another. I know many writers struggle with this, for a number of reasons. Writing as an art form is a bit intangible, especially to those who don’t do it. Few ‘non-writers’ can truly understand the commitment and drive and time required to take even a small piece of writing through to publishable standard, and the years it takes to develop these skills. Not to mention just how tough it is to get something published.
When I was finally ready to say out loud that I wanted to seriously pursue writing, it was a change that had been happening in my head for a long time. So to me it seemed a natural progression. However to others I had been practising as an occupational therapist, a career much more tangible and linear, so many struggled with the idea. My wonderful fiancé embraced it first, and has always been fiercely protective and supportive of me. My mum was great too, and had probably seen it coming, even though the thought of a career change was a still bit scary.
Friends have been varied. Some have embraced it completely, and we openly discuss what I’ve been up to with my writing as much as we discuss their careers. Others are interested, asking questions but not quite comprehending the change. Some still see it as just a hobby I indulge in, while others never mention it, probably not sure what to say.
So when you do have a friend understand, and truly understand, it really stands out. We had two of our closest friends visit recently, and completely out of the blue they gave me a gift. They very sweetly said it was to show that they believed in what I was doing and that they believed in me. I’m not certain they knew just how much that meant to me, and what an incredible gift it was. A gift of support and a gift of understanding.
So, I’d like to introduce you all to my new blog mascot, a rather floppy little rabbit named Squish (who you might have seen around the blog). He now sits by my computer, each day gifting me a little ray of light. Thanks, Al and Sharim.