Both writers and hikers navigate challenging paths, facing obstacles and seeking support as they pursue their goals, whether on a mountain trail or in the literary world.
As I made my way up the smooth yet challenging terrain of Utah’s Delicate Arch, I couldn’t help but reflect on my journey as a writer. This hike, taken twenty-one years after I began my writing career, mirrored the arduous trek to book publication. Surrounded by the majestic cliffs of Entrada sandstone, I felt a deep connection with fellow hikers who were also navigating the rocky path.
Each step I took reminded me of the struggles writers face in their pursuit of publication. The journey is often long and fraught with uncertainty, lacking the clear guidelines found in fields like medicine or engineering. A degree in fine arts does not guarantee publication, just as lessons in rock climbing do not prepare one for the challenges of hiking the Half Dome. The only way forward is to venture out, to tread the paths forged by others, and to embrace the inevitable missteps along the way.
During my three-mile trek, anxiety gnawed at me. Yet, the kindness of strangers uplifted my spirits. As I encountered difficult sections, fellow hikers offered their hands to help me climb over obstacles. This camaraderie echoed my experiences as a writer, where support from mentors and peers has been invaluable in helping me ascend to the next level in my craft.
For years, I grappled with uncertainty about my identity as a writer. A mentor once advised me to be patient and to write daily, assuring me that my voice would eventually emerge. Skeptical yet determined, I followed her guidance. Over time, I learned that “voice” is an invisible watermark, a unique signature that distinguishes one writer from another.
Just as hikers must adapt to the terrain, writers must adjust their approach based on their individual talents and aspirations. This adaptability is crucial, as the writing journey often requires resilience and a willingness to face challenges head-on. Trust in my readers—family, friends, and the broader community—has also played a significant role in my development as a writer.
At a time when my work for consumer magazines left me feeling frustrated, a friend posed a thought-provoking question: “When are you going to write for yourself?” This inquiry struck a chord, prompting me to seek out publications that resonated with my voice. I began writing for India Currents magazine, where I found an audience eager for my monthly features and columns, even if it meant receiving some criticism along the way. From that point forward, I vowed to write only for those who would publish my work authentically.
In the fall of 2009, I sought a community of writers to critique my creative nonfiction. I found a supportive group during a particularly challenging period in my life, marked by the impending loss of my father. Their encouragement mirrored the support I received from fellow hikers, who cheered me on during my ascent. “You’re almost there!” they called out, instilling in me the determination to keep going.
Buddhism teaches the concept of muditā, which refers to the joy derived from celebrating others’ happiness. My writing friend, Tony, exemplified this principle, celebrating every publication of mine with genuine enthusiasm. Another colleague, Aggie, taught me the importance of generosity, while Jeanne encouraged me to start each day with gratitude. I never anticipated that my words would resonate with someone across the globe, leading to an unexpected book deal.
That moment of receiving the offer left me speechless, much like the awe I felt when I finally reached the Delicate Arch. Standing before this natural wonder, colossal yet delicate against the vibrant blue sky, I was filled with a mix of fear, gratitude, and disbelief.
The trek to book publication, much like a challenging hike, is a journey of perseverance, support, and self-discovery. As I continue to navigate the literary landscape, I carry with me the lessons learned along the way, grateful for the community that has supported me through every step of this arduous yet rewarding journey.
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