Good Evening! What a beautiful day to just enjoy the weather, and enjoy life's blessings. To be a new author is exciting and based on this personal ride, is scary as well as intimidating because you hope and pray everyone will enjoy your work. The reality of the situation is that everyone is not going to support you, like your work, or have your best interest at heart. However, when you get support from a few accept it, be happy, and enjoy your success.
I am a proud member of the B.PS. group (Bonnets, PJs, and Slippers) founded by Author, Lady Nika Williams. On Saturday, May 6, 2023, at least 15 of the Albany/Troy members drove three hours to Boston, MA for a book discussion with NY Times Best Selling Author Terry McMillan. It was nothing short of amazing as well as a dream come true.
The book discussion, reading and signing were based on her 2020 book, It's Not All Downhill From Here. Ms. McMillan discussed how she became an author and the inspiration behind her characters. She read a chapter and answered questions. I didn't get the opportunity to ask a question, but that is alright because it gets better! Once the discussion was over, everyone that attended was waiting for this moment, to meet Author McMillan and get our books signed. I purchased three books; her latest, Getting Too Happy and Who Asked You? I also brought along my manuscript......Do you see where this is headed?
I asked my mom and another B.P.S member if they thought it would be tacky to ask Author McMIllan to sign my manuscript at her book signing. They said no, just ask! I just wanted her blessings and signature on my manuscript. I mean who wouldn't?
Me: Author McMillan I have two requests, if you don't mind.
Author McMillan: Oh Lord, what is it (jokingly and smiling).
Me: First, would you please sign your book? I spelled out my name for her and she signed her book. Second, Author McMillan, I wrote a book that is coming out in June, would you mind signing my manuscript?
Author McMillan: (She smiles and looks at me with confidence). She signs my manuscript WRITE HARD! TERRY MCMILLAN.
Nothing else needed to be said at that particular moment. The picture above speaks for itself. I wanted to scream! I wanted to hug her (I didn't). I just smiled and walked away feeling victorious. I felt a sense of accomplishment because there are so many authors out here. However, how many can say they have met, had their manuscript signed and picture taken with a NY Times Best Selling Author? Probably not many.
So, as I sit here typing this post with a huge smile on my face, all I can say is Thank You Jesus for opening that door for me. I promise you before it is all said and done, I will make sure Author Terry McMillan receives a copy of my book with our picture. This is going down as a day to remember in history.
Feel free to share your comments, ask questions or leave your concerns. Be Blessed!
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