I used to despise the rejection that came from submitting my unpublished works into writing contests.
Not only that, I often fumbled pretty terribly through the instructions for each one. I told myself that I was better with fiction than non-fiction as an excuse. Sometimes, I wish there was a standard across the board for these kinds of things. My dyslexia and ADHD brain kicks into high gear and the anxiety is real when I am gearing up to submit my work into writing contests. I remember one entry, I forgot to delete highlighted areas that I am sure someone docked me marks for. It’s probably the reason why I never received any information back from them too. To them, it looks careless. To me, it is so much more than that.
Why I am telling you this? I want to encourage you. If you are holding back from a writing contest, a writing pitch session or whatever, put yourself out there no matter what obstacles you may have! Trust me, God’s timing is perfect. He has gifted YOU with this unique gift to use words, just like Him, and create beauty with them.
Yes, it may need some refining and possibly critique. Yes, you will have opposition and rejections. Yes, it may need someone speaking (editing) for you like Moses with Aaron. But, it is still you that is called and shouldn’t stop you from moving forward with what He has called you to do! You, who holds the staff. You, who has the inspiration that can comes from having a relationship with Christ. It is you alone that can wield the sword (pen) God has placed in your hand!
So, I knight you as Wielders of Stories and Words. Go forth and do not fear your calling. Rather, embrace it with duty, valour, and bravery!
Author Aurora Belle 
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