I’VE BEEN WORKING on a story that’s set in Ireland during World War II. One character—and I’ve yet to decide if he’s a good guy or bad guy (he’s a little bit of both)—tells my protagonist:
“You know what the opposite of fear is, don’t you? It’s abundance.”
“You mean only rich people aren’t afraid?” He shakes his head. “It’s not what you have. It’s what you think you have.”Is this true? Or is it just a pretty phrase? I have no idea where it came from. Some part of me I don’t access much, I think. Writers, even the most successful ones, hear “No” as much as (or more than) they hear “Yes.” No one likes every book. I’ve definitely disliked books (rather strongly at times) that are generally praised. But in truth everyone—not just writers—hears “No” as much as “Yes.” The question is: what do we choose to focus on? Can we change our focus to all the times we hear “Yes,” I wonder? Because that’s what brings forth abundance. That’s what brings our own abundance to mind. I’ve just thought of three recent incidences where someone has said yes to me. It feels good! Try it! Happy holidays, and here’s to more of the Yes.
My latest novel, The Physician’s Daughter, is a tale of ambition, betrayal, and love. It is on sale now at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and bookshop.org.