Ever have to make a dreaded phone call to get something straightened out or news you’re not even sure you want to hear? You’re already anxious, keyed-up, and then it happens…they put you on hold: that silent limbo where time slows to a crawl, where you can feel the ticking of the clock with each heartbeat.
I find my life on hold right now. I’m in a kind of writer’s limbo which I’ve termed “The Dead Zone” – this is because people in the publishing biz are currently reviewing my book proposal…for weeks…months…and not a peep yet. There is no sign of life on the other end, just like that interminable dead air.
Finishing my first book, after 7 years of writing, has been an exhilarating experience, but also one of deep sorrow, or perhaps loss. Honestly, I haven’t sorted it out. I just know I didn’t want to write for awhile.
Meanwhile, I rode the rollercoaster of emotions as I began to seek publication: from fear – they’ve completely forgotten about me or worse they gather every Friday around the water cooler and laugh at my dialogue; rejection – any day now they will wise up; vulnerability – what was I thinking, terrible, awful, no good; and joy – well, they haven’t said no yet.
My poor brain. My poor ego.
Here is what I’ve learned during my stint in The Dead Zone:
- Declutter. It’s amazing how papers pile up, and mere minutes at sorting can make a huge difference.
- Exercise. Start new habits to benefit body, mind, and spirit.
- Take time to ponder: life, God’s word, art, nature.
- Read a good book, but not your own.
- Get personal. Spend alittle quality time on yourself, doing things that are meaningful and perhaps pampering, the kind of things that get put off in the daily rush.
So, I did these things, and I discovered one major flaw – I missed writing. It is afterall my therapy. So next time, I will direct myself to keep writing something. Anything.
And so, I started the next book in the series. And the beginning…may just be the best thing I’ve ever written.
Wait on the LORD;
Be of good courage,
And He shall strengthen your heart;
Wait, I say, on the LORD!
Psalm 27:14
