I have to confess that I've done it and I'm sure most of you have, too. Texting while driving can be very dangerous. I came across this video today and thought I would share it with all my friends. If you have a teen that drives or if you're guilty of texting while driving, then this video may save your life or the life of a loved one.
WARNING: It is very graphic and realistic so please be prepared.
I've recently been asked to make some major changes in the plot line of my book. These changes will not only influence the outcome of the entire series, but require the second book in the series to be completely rewritten. The domino affect will influence the remaining two books as well, deleting loved characters and hours of hard work and inspired words. I've been struggling with this because I was so in love with what I had written and felt at the time that it was the direction I wanted to go.
My original thought was to create a romance novel with hints of fantasy, but was told that true fantasy readers would be disappointed. The fantasy world I've created is unique and it was felt by the publishing company I've submitted it to, that I should switch the series to fantasy with a hint of romance. I can see their point and honestly believe that the series will be better with the changes, but the idea of losing all I've worked so hard on has made for some very depressing days. I've had to force myself to the computer each day and try not to think of those characters that have become a part of my life. In one case in particular, I feel like I've lost my best friend. (Strange how we bond with our characters, I know.)
In considering my options, I've spent many hours in prayer and scripture study. The answer I received was to make the changes. The series will be a much richer story and my hope is that readers of fantasy will enjoy the new story line better. However, even after making that decision and feeling good about it, I was still struggling emotionally.
Last Sunday our home teachers came to visit and after their lesson, one of them began telling a story about how a blessing he'd received had given him strength to overcome the situation he'd been in. I told them about what had been happening with me and asked them for a blessing. Because I had some other issues as well, they suggested we fast beforehand. Wednesday evening they returned after we'd all fasted and gave me a blessing. I don't think I've ever felt the spirit so strong. The words he said were not only to help with my writing, but other aspects of my life. He mentioned things he couldn't have known about unless he was in tune with the spirit.
Since that time I've had a renewed attitude about writing and have tucked my character away for another day, promising to bring him back in another book someday. I think he's okay with that. My hope in sharing this with my writing friends, is that they may also seek help and inspiration from the priesthood. Have faith in the Lord that he will help you achieve those things which bring you true happiness. As daughters of God, we have the unique opportunity to influence those around us, both in deed and in word, whether spoken or written. His influence and guidance is there for us if we only ask.
Please read the 12th chapter in Ether, paying special attention to chapters 22-29.
I've recently been asked to change my book from first person point of view to third. At first, I kicked and screamed and cried NOOOOO! But then I considered the reasons behind the request and thought perhaps it would give my book more depth and create a way to add scenes from the male character's POV that would help the story to progress. I agreed to give it a try. Three weeks later, and half insane from the tedious job of turning every "I, me, we, us and mine" into it's third person counterpart, my fingers were raw and sore and my mind was mush. My book however, (at least in my mind) is a masterpiece.
Over the years I've heard several writers express their opinions about first person POV and have received a wide range of answers. I was told once that it was the true sign of a novice and that no publisher in their right mind would touch it, but then we have the (used way too much as an example) Twilight Series. All in first person and a huge hit. Except....she did sneak in some of Jacob's thoughts in the last two books. So is that cheating?
I'm quickly becoming a fan of 3rd person, but would like to hear your opinions on this issue.
I have a friend who is struggling with the death of her mother. When I heard this song, I thought of her. I wanted to share it with everyone. Enjoy.
Address to the Stars
I stumbled across your picture today, I could barely breathe. The moment stopped me cold and grabbed me like a thief. I dialed your number but you wouldn't be there. I knew the whole time, but it's still not fair. I just wanted to hear your voice, I just needed to hear your voice.
What do I do with all I need to say, So much I wanna tell you everyday. Oh, it breaks my heart, I cry these tears in the dark. I write these letters to you, But they get lost in the blue. Cause, there's no address in the stars.
Now I'm driving through the pitch black dark. I'm screaming at the sky, Oh, cause it hurts so bad. Everybody tells me that all I need is time. Every morning rolls in, and it hurts me again, And that ain't nothin but a lie.
What do I do with all I need to say, So much I wanna tell you everyday Oh, it breaks my heart, I cry these tears in the dark. I write these letters to you, But they get lost in the blue. Cause, there's no address in the stars.
Without you here with me, Don't know what to do I'd give anything just to talk to you.
Oh, it breaks my heart.
Oh it breaks my heart.
All I can do is write these letters to you. But there's no address in the stars.
Valor Publishing is pleased to announce that pre-orders for Utah State Attorney General Mark Shurtleff’s novel, “Am I Not A Man: The Dred Scott Story” are now available on the Valor website. By placing your order between now and Labor Day, you will receive a discount price and your copy will be signed and numbered by Mark Shurtleff.
Utah State Attorney General Mark Shurtleff’s ground-breaking new novel, “Am I Not A Man: The Dred Scott Story” is now available for preorder at a reduced price.
An illiterate slave, Dred Scott trusted in an all-white, slave-owning jury to declare him free. But after briefly experiencing the glory of freedom and manhood, a new state Supreme Court ordered the cold steel of the shackles to be closed again around his wrists and ankles. Falling to his knees, Dred cried, "Ain't I a man?" Dred answered his own question by rising and taking his fight to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Dred ultimately lost his epic battle when the Chief Justice declared that a black man was so inferior that he had "no rights a white man was bound to respect."
Dred died not knowing that his undying courage led directly to the election of President Abraham Lincoln and the emancipation proclamation.
Dred Scott's inspiring and compelling true story of adventure, courage, love, hatred, and friendship parallels the history of this nation from the long night of slavery to the narrow crack in the door that would ultimately lead to freedom and equality for all men.
You can order your sale-priced, signed and numbered limited edition copy of “Am I Not a Man” by visiting http://www.valorpublishinggroup.com before Labor Day. There are only 5,000 copies of this special edition being printed and once they’re gone, they’re gone … and the sale price ends on Labor Day. You can request that Mark personalize your inscription, and your book will be mailed to you before the stores even get their copies. For more information, visit http://www.valorpublishinggroup.com
