I’m learning that an important part of releasing a book is accepting feedback. It’s a great lesson in humility.
Every sentence of the story obviously means a great deal to me. Those fifty thousand words were written, revised, edited, and revised again in an attempt to clearly communicate my thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Now those words are on the page, and I sit back and wait to observe their impact.
As readers offer their thoughts, I seek to avoid two responses: pride and defensiveness. Since most readers initially are friends or associates who have been very generous, I haven’t yet received many negative comments. I suspect that an expanding circle of readers will yield a broader spectrum of reactions.
I am happy with the book’s final appearance, and I certainly enjoy positive comments. I’m still somewhat amazed that an old broken-down math teacher could actually produce and publish a book. But praise carries its own challenges.
I sincerely want to avoid pride. I want to listen to, and learn from, those who honor me by reading my story. I hope my experience inspires and encourages, but I never wish to be proud of the effects of a tale that’s really not about me at all.
If you’d like to learn more about the story of Relentless Grace, please visit my website: www.relentlessgrace.com
Question: What’s the difference between being proud of an accomplishment and becoming “prideful?”
Please leave a comment, visit my website, and/or send me an email at rich@richdixon.net.