The Success of Others

This week I received news that two people that I know and love have moved leaps and bounds in their quest for creative success. The first is my brother who after years of writing and waiting has found a literary agent and is now on route to a publishing contract. This is incredibly exciting news.

The other, is a dear friend of mine from my Montreal days. We met when I was working at a bookstore and going to grad school. At the time, she and I had dreams of grandeur; she a music career, me finishing my thesis. Nine years later she has gone one to a growing and flourishing music career, and a finished thesis behind me, looking ahead. Her second CD will be launched in Montreal in October. Here is the link to her website http://www.andrealindsay.com/. I get all weepy when I think of her singing away. I love it when people I love get to do what they want…and succeed!

Admittedly, for a fraction of a second, I was depressed because I have yet to achieve the same level of success that my brother and my friend have achieved. But, then, they have taken the risks that I have yet to take. My brother has sent out story after story and has been published in many magazines. He also has a number of plays. He has a day job, but has organized his life so that his writing is a priority. He has focused on making it work, and it has paid off.

My friend decided a few years ago that if she was going to make it work as a musician that it would have to be her priority. And she did. She quite a job that was taking over her life and took another one that was less demanding and then she focused on writing the music and stayed connected with those who would one day help her succeed.

Although I have been writing for a couple of years, the shift in commitment is recent, and, so, I have miles to go until I am where my brother and friend are at. But, I know that I am on my way. And that my friends is somewhere closer to where I have ever been.