Determination and application of lessons learned must be part of a writer’s repertoire. These occur behind the scenes in the daily grind of the writer’s life. Today, I bring you a guest post that shows us how that paid off for a new writer.
Earlier this year, I taught at Wordsower’s Christian Writers Conference 2018 (#WCWC2018). Many new writers often ask “why attend a conference?” A host of benefits can be gained:
- Meeting and making friends other writers
- Learning the craft of writing/screenwriting/fiction/nonfiction
- Learning the ins and outs of the publishing industry
- Connecting with acquisitions editors
- Pitching your work
- Receiving critiques
- Encouragement, inspiration, and motivation
The first night at WCWC2018 Dean Skoglund greeted me while I perused the conference bookstore. He was excited to tell me how much my critique of his work last year had helped and that he now had a published book. I did what lots of business owners do, I asked him for a testimonial I could put on my website. He provided so much more that I wanted to share it with you today. I hope Dean’s example of determination and application serve to encourage, motivate, and inspire you.
I Met Debra—I Did Not Cry!
Dean Skoglund
Friday evening at WCWC2018 in Omaha, NE, I spotted Debra Butterfield. I went to greet her. I met her at my first writer’s conference in 2017. She critiqued a piece I submitted. I tell my friends, “there were more red marks on the pages, than black print.” She laughed!
Writing for myself, I never thought of going to a conference. In November 2016, I felt the Lord calling me out during a church service. “I had all this stuff to say and no one was listening.” I joined a writers guild, networked with writers, listened to what they had to say, and was encouraged to attend a conference. “You will discover an interest hidden within you or you will go no further.” Omaha was fast approaching so I engaged!
I sent a nine-page magazine article for critique. It fell on the desk of Ms. Debra Butterfield, unknown to me. She calls herself the Motivational Editor and blogs about the craft of writing. Her ministry is “Helping Writers Go from Unpublished to Published.” She is an author, freelance editor, and coach to others to do as she does. She is also an editor with CrossRiver Media Group. What stuck in my mind was her military service. I served, but not in the Marines. Expectations are thrust upon people of kindred spirit.
I am a person one needs to warm up to before getting comfortable. I arrived early to juggle my activity, so as to cross paths with Ms. Butterfield. This will warm her up to my personality and outward adornment. “Hi, Ms. Butterfield, I am Dean Skoglund. I sent an article in for critique, and we have an appointment tomorrow afternoon.”
Our Critique Appointment
God’s hand was evident on Saturday, when we met. My spirit was calm and porous. She was cordial, but firm with her criticism. I could tell she was the right person to critique my work. She admitted red marks were numerous but many were repeats, again and again. I was not disturbed, defensive, or demoralized by her red marks or remarks. I thanked her for her critique.
The article was in terrible shape, but she never let on. She was interested in teaching, encouraging, and inspiring me. I came to listen and find an expression in writing to stimulate and inspire others. I was pleased with our appointment. This was an excellent experience for me.
I did not cry! [Deb interjecting here, I know red marks have a tendency to do that.]
After the conference, I thanked her. “You have helped me a great deal, today! Thank you!” I hesitated! “Can I take a picture of you?”
Determination and Application
Several days later I looked at her red marks and remarks. I grouped similar comments together and made a list of fourteen issues, my A-to-N List.
My checklist was immediately enlisted to prepare for Chicago Write To Publish conference in forty-five days. To succeed, I determined to do one-page devotionals. If I cannot produce one page without red marks, I should not be submitting two pages. I submitted a devotional for critique. The results were few red marks, but many positive remarks.
I carried four devotionals to Chicago. One I read at an evening critique session and received great feedback. Then I went for page two, the second devotional. At the end of this reading, an editor said, “You really have something there. Tighten them up a bit, and they could work.” My unfortunate enthusiasm was, “You think so?” I meant to say “Thanks!” She understood!
The next day we met. She challenged me to write a proposal and have it on her desk in thirty days. I negotiated forty-five days and she agreed. A contract was signed thirty days later. The book Everyday Grace for Men: 60 Devotions, a compilation by 5 other authors besides me, released May 2018.
I want to serve God. He wants me to be successful. Ms. Butterfield gave me a clear, honest and helpful critique. She wants me to be successful. I agree with both! I want to be successful. With all this help, who is against my success?
In one year, I went from writing a terrible, red-lined magazine article to writing devotionals for a published book. This was possible with God, and the instructive criticism of Debra Butterfield who was serving God’s purpose.
Things I learned on my journey:
Small steps—When one page is perfect, then go to page two.
Use help—Dictionary, Roget’s, writer’s books, English grammar books, etc.
Correct—Rewrite, rewrite, rewrite everything as much as you can. Rewrite again!
Clarity—Absolute clarity in words and phrases will produce understanding.
Express truth—Be honest and know what readers want to read.
Specify—Know your audience and know the results you expect for them.
Service—Serve God, serve editors and company, and serve your readers.
success
to express truth
to serve God and people
to specify, to clarify
small steps
-Dean’s Cinquain
I’m excited for Dean’s success. I know that his continued determination and application will garner him more published books, articles, and blog posts in the future. Congratulations, Dean!
About Dean Skoglund
Retired church pastor including church plant, editor of church newsletters, government work, owner/manager of clothing stores, and . Traveled 48 countries and all 50 states.
His debut book released May 2018, Everyday Grace for Men: 60 Devotions. He has been published in local newspapers, blogs, writes, disciples young men, and speaks on request. He has four children and seven grandchildren. Visit his blog to stop and say hi.
About Everyday Grace for Men: 60 Devotions
This daily reminder of God’s grace is just the encouragement and assurance men need in a complicated and challenging world.
For men, the challenge to succeed, to be tough, to do more can be exhausting and overwhelming. These devotions, quotes, and Scripture passages are the perfect combination to encourage and remind them that God is bigger than any obstacle and His grace is sufficient in every situation. Each day offers a new start and a new opportunity to be filled with His grace. Available at Amazon.
Highly encouraging. Thank you!