Tuesday, August 27, 2013

INSPIRATION

INSPIRATION
            




The word inspiration is used millions of times since its inclusion in the English language. It has been employed as a reference point for people, things, emotion and acts, good or bad.
            When I think of inspiration, my mind travels to those who have set an example by deeds of good, a lyric, or an emotion-evoking phrase in a novel or speech. Such is the reason why I embarked on a career in writing.
            My early teen years sparked my interest in writing stories for others to enjoy. There my imagination could soar and explore wondrous travels and situations. I devoured books of the time by William Goldman and relished his fanciful turn of a word and poignant use of few words, which spoke volumes of a situation or a character’s inner thought. I even attempted to write a book on a rickety Smith Corona typewriter with the use of carbon paper for the copies. Alas, my father had other goals for my life that did not include being a writer. In these days, the idea of a parent choosing a child’s profession is ludicrous; but then that was the norm. Therefore, I dutifully chose my career from the list of “suitable” professions my father chose.
            A few decades later, after college, marriage, and establishing a nursing career, I attended a Barry Manilow concert. Though I have followed his career and enjoyed his many concerts in the past, I never truly listened to his words of advice, “Do what you love, and the rest will follow.” That advice hit home to me one June day not so many years ago. I realized that the number of days left in my life were limited to a finite number. I no longer had the luxury of youth to delay a dream to the lingering future.  I couldn’t believe there was a story of any value within me. I hadn’t done any creative writing since I was seventeen. At the age of fifty-eight, I wondered if I could even construct a proper sentence, since my nursing career involved writing in disjointed phrases on patients’ charts.
            It started with the “What if?” concept in my mind. One “what if” lead to another, and another. I began my manuscript on June twenty-seventh and finished my last period on September twenty-seventh that same year. I wrote every free moment when not at the hospital working the night shift, thirty-six hours per week. Ideas and characters rained in a torrent, begging to be developed and born on paper. Excited with my finished “baby” and baptized the name “Front Row Center”, I eagerly shared my greater than 292,000 word creation with a dear friend, Mark J. Dye, who advised me to seek an editor, as he considered the story good. I expected the usual kindness from a friend, but never actual enthusiasm.
            Having searched the internet for writing services, I landed an editor who felt I had a career in writing. She took me through the basics to a finished product. Carol Givner was tough, and wouldn’t write any revisions, but forced me to learn what turns a writer into an author. As much as Mr. Manilow’s words inspired me to write, Carol inspired me to write well.
            On a whim, and never expecting to have a chance of winning, I entered the IPPY Awards in the romance category. You guessed it. I won! This was my first novel with no previous writing experience.
Recently, two short stories of mine, When Midnight Comes and Characters, have been included in an anthology “The Speed of Dark” by Clayton C. Bye, Chase Enterprises, Inc. Publishing. I felt extremely honored to be included among a group of very talented and seasoned authors, and accepted on the book panel.
            Inspiration? It made a monumental change in my life. What was merely an item on my bucket list evolved into a rewarding career. Follow your inspiration and see where it might lead. Listen to your nagging inner voice and welcome the rewards.
©2013 Cynthia B. Ainsworthe








25 comments:

  1. Cynthia, thank you for showing the road to others, and for doing it from the Blogroll!

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  2. Cynthia, your "What if" question has launched many of your excellent writings. It's good advice to offer writers afraid to take the step that follows writing: submitting to editors and publishers. This article encourages them to do so.

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  3. Thank you for sharing your inspiration with the world

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  4. Fine writing deserves recognition. The IPPY is well-earned.

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  5. Truly inspiring, Cynthia. However, I'm convinced that inspiration, determination and "just doing it" are not enough to guarantee success. You also need talent; clearly, you have that in abundance. May your success continue, and continue to inspire us.

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  6. Cynthia, I'm a big fan and I love all the wonderful advice in this post. Bryan's right, too - you are a talented writer.

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  7. I love your story, Cynthia. When your dreams became inspiration, you listened, you wrote, and you conquered, girl! I had a writer friend once tell me the Latin translation for inspiration, is "God-breathe," and only when you are walking the path God wants you on, can your heart hear it. It's why he calls writing a God-given talent, and you have it, Cynthia. Loved the post, Marta!

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    1. Anne, always a pleasure to showcase talent. Speaking of which, when will you be my guest?

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  8. Cynthia, this made me put your book on my to-read list. Thank you for sharing.

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  9. Cynthia, this was a wonderful background piece and guideline. Thank you for sharing, and thank you Marta for highlighting such talent!

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    2. Thank you for visiting, Deirdre! I'd like to have you here too! Just say the word:)

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  10. Thank you all for your wonderful and thoughtful comments. I know they are heartfelt. I'm fortunate to belong to a circle of such talented authors in our online group. The excitement continues for me as this link reveals: http://maxitmagazine.com/index.php/articles/newss/348-ippy-award-winner-front-row-center

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  11. Thanks for a look into you writing world Cynthia and to Marta for once again showcasing talent.
    Laurie.

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  12. Cynthia, I love what Anne said about the latin for inspiration--it makes it a special word. Just as your dreams and talent were special, allowing you to become the fine writer you are--filled with "god-breathe' for many more great books to come. Your book is on my list, because if I bought it now, I'd have to jump all my other books to review and read it :).

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  13. You not only clearly explained the sources of your inspiration, but you also gave credit to the people who helped you succeed. That's inspiring, too, because too often successful people want to take full credit when, in fact, none of us achieve our goals in a vacuum.

    Blessings on all your writing projects!

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  14. Hi,

    First of all, I am a Barry Manilow fan, always have been. I remember his first song. His voice knocked me out, and I said wow! I love most of his texts because many of them are inspirational and build you up.

    Now to your article, I am so glad you stepped out there and took the risk. Inspiration means stepping out on that desire, that feeling that you have and doing something about it to see if it will come to pass. You did that. You took a risk and look what happened. I find it absolutely fantastic and congratulate you for taking those steps to become what you are today, a woman who is an author.

    Keep being inspired for through your inspiration you inspire others to reach out and do the impossible.

    Shalom,
    Patti

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  15. Thanks Cynthia for inspiring with your inspiration!!!

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  16. Laurie,Micki, Joyce,and Pat,
    Thank you all for those wonderful comments. Barry's inspiration continue to move me forward. I dedicated that book to him. He was very gracious with his thanks and wished me success. The rewards keep coming as I work with a Hollywood professional in turning Front Row Center to a mini-series and feature film script. Fingers are crossed on this project.
    Cynthia

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  17. "I write the songs that make the whole world sing." Go ahead, hum a few bars...

    Wonderful post Cynthia. Inspiration comes in many forms and at a time in our lives when we can jump up and run with them. Best of luck to you in all your TV and movie ventures.

    Taylor

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  18. Cyn - you always knew what you aspired to be. Quite simply, it was only just a matter of when, of being in the right place at the right time. We just know when that special moment comes and for you, it was Barry's wise words as he spoke them to your heart. You managed to fulfill your Father's dreams without giving up your own.

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  19. Taylor and Linda, Thank you so much for your wonderful comments. I know they were heartfelt. Yes, Barry's words did ring true for me, "Do what you love and the rest will follow." Like everyone else, I just keep on plugging along, hoping for the best.

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  20. Thank you, Cynthia, and everyone of you who has taken the time to stop by and leave a comment!

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    1. Thank you Marta for this wonderful opportunity to tell my story. It has been a pleasure, and you honor me by featuring my article. May many blessings be yours!

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