Give my Regards to Broadway...Why I'll Likely Never be Famous!

In this second chapter of my writing career, I have come to a sobering reality.
Though I've successfully published hundreds and hundreds of articles over the last two decades,
hob-nobbed with some important folks, have garnered numerous awards for my work, ghost written a few books, have a relatively broad knowledge base, and the discipline of a nun, I'll never be famous. At least not as a writer.

And I'm beginning to be okay with it. (Acceptance almost always makes things easier).
At this juncture, I've come to realize that everything that is "popular" or celebrated in our culture, is not necessarily of "excellence."

And quite frankly, in these changing times, the literary landscape is quite different than when I first embarked upon my journey.

We've condensed and distilled our communication down to 140 character "Tweets," text messages, and Instagrams. We've made powerful, engaging writing take a back seat to the size of one's platform and social media savvy. And sadly, a lot of good books and talented authors go unread and unnoticed.

More and more, it seems that those that get the "spotlight" today are:

1. Those who court controversy (i.e. Donald Trump)
2. Those who have outlandish gimmicks (i.e. Dennis Rodman marries himself)
3. People who give "dysfunctional" a whole new meaning --------(fill in the blank)
4. Those who garner attention through shock value (i.e. Miley Cyrus)
5. People who have become famous by bedding famous people
6. Those willing to sell their souls by exposing the dirty laundry of family and friends         

Of course, this is not to suggest that everyone fits in this category.
We have some immensely talented writers on the arts scene today, who truly deserve all the attention, accolades, and spoils they receive.

But, I think I'm running out of steam...and reality is replacing former pipe dreams.

For now, I'm abandoning my hopes of writing for fame and fortune, or the potential of being featured on a late night talk show. Heck, I can barely stay up late enough to watch them! :-)

For now, I'll write because I'm "famous" with the ladies at my mom's church and periodically at dinner parties.
I'll  write because I believe that I can make a difference.
I'll write because I believe it is my divine calling.
I'll write to keep myself sane and give inspiration to others.

I'll write because you continue to read.
And if fame comes along...well, that will just be icing on the cake.
And you know how I love cake!


Wishing you a great, safe holiday weekend!


.."A penny for your thoughts"