Last Friday I put the final period on a new book I’m writing, then sent it in to my publisher to see if they like it. The working title is Overcoming the Critic. The book is about dealing with critics and how to ready yourself so they don’t affect you—so they don’t discourage you and keep you from doing what God has called you to do.
Then on Tuesday I woke up and immediately saw a review on my Created for More. It was a mostly positive review, but they didn’t like my use of the word “zen”. I understand. It wasn’t the right word for the chapter. So the next 30 minutes while I showered and ate breakfast, I was obsessing over it. “Why did I use that stinkin’ word? It was such an obvious mistake. I hope that doesn’t hurt the success of the book…my sloppiness with the English language.”
I even found it hard to focus during my devotional time. I kept wanting to check the computer (two feet away) to see if any other reviews came in. But then I think God dropped a little revelation in my head. “Didn’t you just write a book about this? Shouldn’t you follow your own advice?”
Oh yeah. I forgot about that. The book was about previous experiences dealing with reviews and what people had to say about me. How hadn’t I learned?
Well, I’m proud to say I have learned at least a little something. I put the criticism away and I relaxed. Tons of people won’t like it. Tons of people won’t relate to it. Tons of people will have nasty things to say about it. But that’s okay. My idea isn’t for everyone. And I don’t need to please everyone.
If I followed the dream God placed in my heart, I did my part. And that’s all I’m responsible for. I’ll let Him deal with the critics.
Powerful read! Definitely am grateful for this as I walk into a new mode of my life now.