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Fear Is Like a Cat

12/6/2010

1 Comment

 
Some people find it exciting to start a new writing project. Not me. I would much rather tackle revision.

In the beginning—anything can happen. Anything. Just the thought of sitting down and beginning causes a little flutter in my stomach, a breathlessness in my throat.

I know it’s fear. Fear that has the power to stop me cold. Fear whispering in a thousand voices, all in my own mind.

Once upon a time I tried to reason with this fear. I tried to argue with it, to threaten it, wrestle it, ignore it, outlast it.

I tried with all my mind and heart to overcome it. I could not make fear go away.

Then I learned fear is a cat. When it purrs in my ear and rubs it’s back against my leg, I smile.

“Hello, Kitty,” I say, and reach down and pet the cat.

“I see you. I know who you are and where you come from.”

The cat lays back its ears. I give its head a little scratch.

“Don’t mind me,” I say. “I’m starting a new story.”

The cat curls at my feet and goes to sleep.

1 Comment
Jan Myhre
12/10/2010 09:31:58 am

Sitting here in St. John Florida reading your blog for the first time. We share so many favorite experiences it's like ready my journal only better. My goal shall be to write as clear and concise as you have done. Thank you, Mary

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    I'm an award-winning author of Children's/YA books and former journalist with a passion for stories about people facing adversity with courage.

    My books have been named Notable Social Studies Book for Young People, SPUR Award for Best Juvenile Fiction about the American West, Bank Street College List of Best Children's Books, and NY Public Library Best Books for Teens. My journalistic work has received numerous awards for excellence from the Society of Professional Journalists and two Emmy nominations.
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