What Does “Soon” Really Mean?

Dear Blog Reader: This is my Taylor’s Tips Newsletter that goes out via email once a month to a big list of readers. I’m posting it on my blog today as well. Some of the readers are writers, so you’ll find some hints here if you are in that group. If not, consider the word “soon” as it applies to your dog at home as in, “How soon will she understand that my slippers are not her toys?” or  “How soon will he learn not to bark at the mailman?” Hope these tips help you in all areas of life. Hugs, B.J.

TAYLOR’S TIPS for a more productive you…

Dear Friend,

You’re on vacation with the kids in the car. “Are we there yet?” Jennie cries out.

“Soon, Honey, soon,” you reply.

You’ve sent a query to a top-notch magazine and are waiting for a reply. “When do you think I’ll hear something?” you ask your writers’ group a month later.

“Soon,” they respond. “You’ll hear soon.”

Webster’s Dictionary defines SOON as: in the near future; before the usual or appointed time.

But what does “in the near future” really mean? And when is “the usual or appointed time?”

Waiting for an important email?

Can’t find a taxi when you need one?

Traffic got you jammed right before an important meeting?

When it comes to waiting for something we really want, soon is not soon enough. This is when we pull out our hair, shout to the wind, bang our head on the steering wheel, and wish that once again, we’d have the answer to SOON. Roget’s Superthesaurus says SOON is: shortly, coming right up, directly, presently, forthwith, before long. Not soon enough for you? Me neither.

My  mother always told me, “A watched pot never boils.” And mostly she was right. So I’ve learned to stay busy while I’m waiting. Pick another task that I can do in the interim. Make a list for the grocery store. Draft a new personal experience essay (maybe on the art of waiting?). Research another market to submit to. Outline my next novel.

There are many things to do while we wait for SOON to arrive. I’ve learned to open my hands to God and ask him for patience. And when the answer does come, it will be a gift placed before me.

Many blessings on you and your work. And happy writing.

What’s Happening…

Chicken Soup for the Soul Deadline October 31 for the Preteen book. Here’s what the website says about the book and the stories they are looking for: Being a preteen can be tough. Puberty, friends, school, family issues can all seem challenging. Our preteen book will be like a portable support group. You remember your preteen years. Please share your own personal stories that you think will help preteens navigate these challenging years. Stories can be about serious topics, friends, most embarrassing moments, and anything else that is relevant to 9-12-year-olds. Check out the website for additional books in the works. www.chickensoup.com

Don’t miss out on the most fabulous writers conference around. The Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference always runs over Palm Sunday weekend. In 2011 the dates are April 15th-19th. Start saving now by socking away say $20 or $25 a week. It’s worth every penny. Watch the website for updates in the next couple of months. Short cut URL: http://bit.ly/cczjVo  or http://mounthermon.org/adult/professionals/writers-conference 

Follow your dreams…

B.J.

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Author of :
“The Complete Guide to Writers Groups That Work”
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Check out my website at www.bjtayloronline.com

QUESTION FOR YOU: Is there an area in your life where SOON is challenged?