We ‘Otter’ Be Friends

I spent last week at an amazing writers retreat (hosted by Books&Such Literary Agency) in beautiful Monterey, California. It was exciting to sit around with other authors and discuss publishing, publicity, social networking and how to connect with your readers. As a still-yet-unpublished writer, I found this a bit overwhelming, but also a fantastic glimpse of what is (hopefully) ahead. The photo is of me and my roommate for the event, author/speaker Linda Evans Shepherd.

We also spent part of each afternoon simply enjoying the sights and sounds of Monterey Bay. I had the opportunity to walk the shore, snapping photos of sea lions and harbor seals, gulls and splashing waves. We also explored the wonderful Monterey Aquarium.

By the last morning, my head was spinning–filled to the brim with good information and fun experiences. I sat on the terrace overlooking the bay, using the quiet moments to process what I had learned. “God, what am I doing here?” I prayed. “These other writers are so far ahead of me. I’m just getting started.”

Just then my eyes were drawn to the waves. Several otters were frolicking together in the kelp. A volunteer at the aquarium had explained to us that the otters live in small groups and that they will wrap strands of kelp around themselves when they sleep so that they won’t drift away. I felt God nudging at my heart. The otters stay in groups–just like writers who need to come together with others who truly understand us. And He’s not going to let me drift, aimlessly. He’s provided an amazing agent and other publishing professionals who can provide guidance and support–like the kelp–that will keep me from drifting off course.

Do you have some “otter friends?” Writing is isolating. Have you tried to explain plotting & characters to a non-writer? Sometimes I notice my friends’ eyes glaze over while I talk. Or, when I talk about my characters as if they were real, they get concerned looks on their faces. Our friends and family are precious to us, but it’s important to spend time with other writers who understand the heartbreaks and joys of the business. If you are a writer, make time to attend some writing conferences or join a local critque group. Because everyone “otter” have some friends.