What I've learned From This Contest.

Thank you all.  

I wanted to take a moment to thank all of you who took the time out of your busy schedules to read so many of the wonderful stories in this contest.  Many had to step outside their preferred genre to read each posted chapter.  We have some good ones, don’t we?  The writers worked so hard to get everything ready for this contest, this opportunity to have their work commented on by fellow writers and put on public display.  For some of us, it was the first time.  That took courage.  

I don’t know about other contestants, but I learned so much.  Reading so many entries taught me what works, what doesn’t and more importantly, why.  I feel like I just finished a crash course in writing.  So many of the critiques were well thought out, some had good advice on how to make the story better.  To those great writers and readers that not only offered critiques, but gave examples of what, where, why, and how, I say thank you.  Thank you for your commitment, the hard work, and level of caring needed to do that.

I learned how to critique a story, not just for the nuts and bolts, but in recognition of talent, skill and content.  I learned I didn’t need to be an English professor to leave comments.  Most of us aren’t professional editors, so I left the technical editing to those savvier in those areas than me.  Instead, I tried to do my best to put myself into your stories, listen to your voice, follow your thoughts, and see your intent when you wrote your story.  As a friend put it:  “…there are millions of books out there I wouldn't care to read, but that doesn't mean they're not excellent stories because they're not in my category of interests.  …[try] to understand whether, the writer, [is] absolutely invested mentally and emotionally in [their] creation…”  I thought that was excellent advice.

I also learned to have a healthy respect for the work professional editors do, although I still maintain they must be slightly insane to want to do this work.  Given the attitude and behavior of some writers when receiving critiques, especially in this contest, I’m not sure if professional editors should be declared insane or nominated for sainthood.

Most important thing I took away from this contest?  I’m a winner.  Oh not that I made it to the top of Rand the Grand Wizard’s list, but because I've made new friends, new connections, learned some valuable lessons in perfecting my craft, and as Nietzsche said,  “That which does not kill you can only make you stronger.”  It might spike your blood pressure, make you a bit cranky, cause you some anxiety, and definitely some maniacal laughter now and then; but all in all, it made me stronger.  And a better writer.

On a personal note, I want to thank all that took the time to stop by and leave comments on my entry and for your votes.  There are some real 'Class Acts' out there and you know who you are.  I especially appreciate the encouragement given, your private e-mails of encouragement, laughter, and friendship. For me, that was the blue ribbon in this contest. 

Hearty congratulations to those made the cut for the next round!  I will be stopping by to comment and vote for you as soon as your entries are up.