Lately I've been reminded how very fortunate I am to have the truly wonderful readers I do, readers who have blessed me time and time again through the years, who continue to bless me, over and over again--and I thought I'd just take a moment to thank you.
By its very nature, writing is a solitary lifestyle. It would probably be a lonely lifestyle for many of us were it not for our families (and that includes our church families), our friends, other writers ... and our readers. Many of my readers pray for me, for my work, even for my family. And believe me, I'm more aware of those prayers than you can imagine! Some have become good friends, even though we've never met. Many drop me a note on a regular basis simply to let me know they're thinking of me and cheering me on as I work through the book in progress. Some "hawk" my books as they travel about the country, talking with bookstore folks, encouraging them to order titles they don't have on the shelf, at the same time making them aware of other authors writing inspirational and Christian fiction. And some of my readers are also writers who can pray with great understanding and empathy, because they've "been there and done that."
I wouldn't like to consider what a hole there would be in my life without these special friends. Many of you are reading this, and you know who you are. Know this also: you make a significant, powerful difference in my life--and I'm grateful for each one of you. Thank you for loving the stories that I love to bring to you, and thank you for pouring out your affection and your prayers on me. Because of you, my life is anything but solitary. Because of you, I'm blessed with a wide network of friends who care and who never hesitate to make the effort to let me know they care.
When I give thanks for you, my readers, a line from my favorite poet, W. B. Yeats, invariably comes to mind: "Think where man's glory most begins and ends, and say my glory was I had such friends."
Bless you for the many ways you bless me.
BJ
