If you want writing friends, be as friendly as you can be,
Not a grouch in a corner, nor an isolated, lonely tree.
Care for publishers you meet as you go on your way,
And the love that you offer might return someday.
Dreaming to see your novel on a bookstore shelf,
Is not the greatest delight you should feel for yourself.
If you want to be published and printed and bound,
Write stories to reward those who are looking around.
So we scribble and craft and revise and refine.
We tweak every sentence. We polish each line.
But sometimes the trap is that we aim to impress,
Trying hard to be popular instead of God’s best.
I once wrote a story I knew was inspired,
With a message so real that my spirit felt fired.
But it failed at the pitch, didn’t charm, didn’t thrill,
For it wouldn’t appeal to the bigger crowd still.”
I learned from that moment, quite humble and true,
That applause isn’t something that I can pursue.
For the One who first called me is the One to please,
Who helps my stories put troubled hearts at ease.
So write with compassion, with care and delight.
Love your readers enough to get everything right.
Yet remember your mission, your calling from above.
Write words that show truth, beauty, and love.
If publishers smile and they welcome your art,
You can rejoice at knowing it came from the heart.
But if doors stay closed and the crowd doesn’t see,
Keep writing for the Lord, for your gift came for free.
