I wasn't sad, surprisingly I didn't tear up, rather, I celebrated. He didn't quit searching. He found his grail.
What does this have to do with my writing, other than I did actually study this dramatic plot and character building? I have reached a similar goal. Yay!
When I was fourteen I made the first of many trail rides into the Superstition Mountains of Arizona. To say I was hooked is an understatement. I read every shred of paper about the mountain and its legends; both history and fiction. Later I studied the geology of the region. But from the first moment I rode into those hills, I dreamed of the book I just finished. For forty years these words have rattled around in the grey matter.
Three years ago, I started the first book of the series. I learned real fast it takes more than whacking on a keyboard to get the story written. I had the help of a great critique group, and hired an editor, then paid a proofreader. I'm the impatient sort, so after more than a year of sending my little story to agents and publishing houses, I went to CreateSpace.
The journey continued with the second book, Midnight and the Racehorse, a story I wish had happened when a friend invited me to Turf Paradise. These two first books are close to my heart, but they were practice for my goal. The Legend of the Superstition Gold is finally finished. Yay!
Now, don't get all panicky. I don't intend to kick the bucket tomorrow - but that is not something we are guaranteed. So, the message I stress with this little blog is this: What ever your heart desires, no matter who tells you it's impossible, never give up on it!
Then, never stop reaching for that next goal. I promised three other stories, and I have a novel in the works. There's always another star to reach for.
Have you set a goal which you know will take time, sweat, and blood (those paper-cuts are murder) ? How do you keep going?