The 2013 "Impossible Dream" Theme

To dream ... the impossible dream.
To fight ... the unbeatable foe.
To bear ... with unbearable sorrow.
To run ... where the brave dare not go.
To right ... the un-rightable wrong.
To love ... pure and chaste from afar.
To try ... when your arms are too weary.
To reach ... the unreachable star.

This is my quest, to follow that star.
No matter how hopeless, no matter how far. 
To fight for the right, without question or pause.
To be willing to march into Hell, for a Heavenly cause…

“Impossible Dream” Lyrics by Joe Darion

From the musical Man of La Mancha

As writers, our “impossible dreams” sometimes seem as challenging and hopeless as the valiant Don Quixote’s windmill battle against evil. It's true Quixote was a self-delusional character, but we must agree that his intentions were commendable –even noble and admirable!

Personally, I’ve gotten a few snickers after stating that I’m a novelist, although most times people are interested in my books – until they learn I write for the Christian and inspirational market and that I’m not J. K. Rowling-rich. Money means success to them. Oh, don't get me wrong. I have a readership that appreciates me. It's growing steadily. Still, there are those who  view me as “self-delusional” because I’m a full-time Christian novelist who isn't earning beaucoup bucks and still believes I’m doing exactly what God wants me to do. 

Several family members, bless their hearts, would love to see me get a “real job.” One of them -- not my husband, who is totally supportive of my quest -- often makes wisecracks about my “high-paying position.” It hurts and discourages me that money might buy this person's respect as opposed to earning it with my hard work and integrity. After all, I've had more than 25 novels published by traditional, royalty-paying publishers. That has to count for something. Right? 

You'd think...

And it's not as if I ask him (or anyone) for money. The truth is I want for nothing. God sees to my needs. 

Additionally, I know from the emails, cards, and letters I receive that my stories deeply touch other people’s lives. That’s why I’m a writer!

Beginning in 2013, Everything Writerly will host other authors who will share their struggles to accomplish their impossible dreams in the face of opposition. You’ll be encouraged, whether you’re a writer or reader. So stay tuned!!!

Happy New Year!

~Andrea