Two years ago, in July, I looked at my writing schedule and said, “No more My Book Therapy.” As the primary blogger and the facilitator of the Voices community, I didn’t see how I could juggle writing my novels and contine to blog/teach and interact with the Voices community. Not only that, but Rachel was also overwhelmed with a new book contract. Between the two of us, the blog was barely staying afloat. We had to let it go. But even letting that thought find footing made me ache. I loved MBT, both the blog and the Voices, and believed that what we were doing helped writers find their voice, as well as helping me become both a better teacher and a better writer.
I didn’t want to say goodbye. But Ididn’t see how I could juggle it all. I remember a sort of whiny prayer going up to God … something about being overwhelmed and needing help.
Then, out of the blue, I received an email from our now forum coordinator and Voices e-zine editor, Lisa Jordan. At that time – the summer of 2009 – we had no e-zine, no Monday evening chats, no welcoming committee, no prayer coordinator, no member care coach … nada. Just my feeble efforts to help writers find community, support and encouragement.
“Can I help you with the blogs? Maybe do some administration for you?” Lisa asked. I nearly fell over. See, the miraculous part of this is, while Lisa and I are great friends, and have been for years, I hadn’t really shared my time burdens with her.
But God had. And, despite my Scandinavian “I can do everything” upbringing, I practically lunged for her, wrapping my arms around her in gratitude (over cyberspace, of course). Just having one more person to carry the load empowered me, gave me new strength, new vision. To say that Lisa, because of her willingness to come aboard, saved My Book Therapy is not an understatement. Without Lisa, we may have just thrown our hands up in defeat.
But, with Lisa, and the many that have come alongside since … well, I look at MBT today and am amazed at what God can do when we are overwhelmed. I’m speechless and thrilled at how MBT has grown these past two years – and I can not wait to tell you all the great things that are ahead! And it’s all because of community – of people sharing the vision, coming alongside, and sowing their talents to create an amazing harvest.
I love this issue of the e-zine! Lisa’s staff continues to “bring it” with their encouraging articles and tips on getting published and surviving the writing world. We are not in this game, this life, alone … we are on your team here at MBT. I encourage you to read this issue and get involved in a community that partners with you to help your writing dreams come to life.
Thank you for reading – and for being a part of My Book Therapy Voices!
Susie May
