April Letter from the Editor

When I was an unpublished writer, I used to look at published authors and wish I knew their secret. I always felt separate—thinking they knew something I didn't. Now that I'm published, I know that mindset was not only useless, it was bunk. Because just as there's innumerable unpublished authors in this world, there's just as many reasons why they remain so. But I'm here to attest that lack of talent is low on the list. As a former contest coordinator and a frequent judge of many contests, I am constantly wowed by the ideas, the beauty and creativity in which people connect words, and the emotion their storytelling elicits.

In today's world, we face divisive issues. But the one thing that shouldn’t divide us is our passion for writing. Published or unpublished, writing should unite us—excite us.

In ten days the 2016 Pikes Peak Writers Conference begins. Last month on Writing from the Peak, our columnists did everything but stand on their heads to get their fellow writers ready for a successful conference. I encourage everyone to scroll back through March and read these outstanding articles. So when you walk through the doors at the Marriott, you have the confidence that you’re in an environment with like-minded people who want what you want—a satisfying writing career. And if you can’t attend Conference, remember PPW’s free Write Brains, Writers Night, and Open Critique. We’re reaching out to you, not to divide or compete against you, but to make you feel welcome and to help you succeed.

This month Writing from the Peak returns to articles on writing and craft, and they are so good, I'm forcing myself to keep my finger off the publish button until their designated dates. Meanwhile, I have a challenge for you. I challenge you to set yourself apart. Focus on the talents and gifts that only you possess. While you're at it, consider these quotes. The first is from Richard Bach. "A professional writer is an amateur who didn't quit," and the second is from Mark Twain, "Comparison is the death of joy."  

About the author: Donnell Ann Bell is the managing editor for Writing from the Peak, the coordinator for the monthly Open Critique held on the first Wednesday of every month, and one of Pikes Peak Writer's board members at large. She is a best selling romantic suspense and mystery author. To learn more about her books, find her at www.donnellannbell.com