Seasons of Life, Marriage and the Writing Journey

I've spoken to several men and women recently who seem to be trudging dolefully through a tough stage in their lives and their marriages, as though they're dragging a ten-ton stone behind them. I understand completely. Our son, Evan, just turned one on July 6. Having him has been an unspeakable joy, yet this has also been by far the most challenging year of my life. (The fact that I'm eight months pregnant with our second child may have something to do with that!)

Life changes, big and small, cause upheaval. Maybe for you, it's been a move, financial struggles, a marriage, a divorce, a death in the family, or the loss of a job. I don't think that I've ever encountered so many people struggling with an identity crisis, a feeling of wondering what on earth happened to the person that they used to be. And yes, I've wondered that pretty much every day myself since the day my baby son was born. 

What has gotten me through is the fact that even when I'm no longer sure how all of the complex aspects of myself, my family life, and my creative pursuits fit together, God is. He knows who I am. And more important, I know who He is. HE IS THE GREAT I AM. Isn't it interesting and odd that when Moses asked, "Who should I say you are?" God said simply, "I AM." His identity is in His being, His perfection, His holiness, His integrity. He does not have to DO anything to be Himself; He simply has to BE. 

The truth is, you are. God made you. You are here on the earth, and you are here for a reason. No one has ever been like you, with your unique combination of characteristics, personality traits, quirks, sense of humor, gifts, and abilities. If you're a writer, God has gifted you with a voice and a way to write and describe things that is special and particular to you. If you don't write those ideas down and share them with the world, no one else will.

Part of loving God, loving yourself and loving other people is using your voice and your gifts to communicate your personal message.

Recommendation from a Client and Fellow Author

I was inspired and encouraged by this recommendation for my developmental writing and editing services from author Dave Sterrett. I edited two books for him, both of which were published and one of which has become a Christian bestseller! Congratulations, Dave!

“Marla Alupoaicei is one of the best writers and editors in the Christian market today. Very few Christian editors and writers have the ability to meticulously edit while adding creative suggestions with theological soundness. Marla, on the other hand, provides all three: accurate grammar, innovative ideas on your manuscript, and biblical accuracy. I highly recommend her writing and editing services!”

- Dave Sterrett, popular speaker and author of "O" God: A Dialogue on Truth and Oprah's Spirituality and Why Trust Jesus?  Website: davesterrett.com

 

Thanks so much, Dave! For all of you writers out there seeking editing help or publication, please contact me at marla_alupoaicei@yahoo.com for more info on my writing and editing services. I look forward to the privilege of working with you to develop your manuscript, improve your platform and help your publishing dreams come true!

Tips and Tricks for Writers

As an author and speaker, I often cross paths with men and women who write and want to know some of the "tips and tricks" of the publishing trade. Thought I'd share some helpful advice here!

1) Know your subject. Do your research. Double-check your sources. Perform original interviews to gain unique material. Find a cool angle and hook that give you a cutting-edge perspective on your topic - a perspective that no one else has. Do the legwork to find out about your competition and be sure to include that information in your book proposal.  

2) Work hard, and keep a positive attitude. Accept others' comments with grace, and always carefully consider any pointers you receive. But trust your instincts, too. Don't be discouraged by the market or by other people's negativity. There are lots of "joy stealers" in this world! Trust that the Lord has given you something to say and a venue in which to say it. Pray hard and persevere!

3) Be teachable. Join a writer's group and submit your work regularly for critique. Ask trusted writers for their honest feedback.

4) WRITE. EVERY DAY. Don't spend so much time reading that you don't actually write. Writers write. It's that simple!  

5) Research your subject matter on Amazon and the web. Order books related to your topic and also be sure to get a copy of the most recent Writer's Market. Know which publishers accept the kind of work you are doing. Send them only what they ask for.

6) Don't rush. Be sure your work is ready and as close to perfect as possible before submitting it. When you think it's ready, submit it to your writer's group for their critique. Then sit on it for a few weeks. Read it, pray over it, and give yourself a chance to be inspired and make your final edits/changes before you send it to a publisher.

7) If you tend to struggle with correct spelling, grammar, plot development, etc., hire a professional editor to help you develop your ideas and edit your manuscript before you send it out. For an affordable fee, you can get your manuscript in tip-top shape, learn publishing tips from the pros, and greatly increase your chances of successful publication!

For more info on Marla's editing services, e-mail her at marla_alupoaicei@yahoo.com. Thank you!