Because of Him by Glynis M. Belec

Writing is a lonesome endeavour. But I am good with that. I have the dickens of the time trying to figure out whether I am an introvert or extrovert, though. I LOVE being in my office all by myself creating and reading and doing all sorts of other things in seclusion. I long for extended periods of uninterrupted time to write but it rarely comes. Then again, I am an inspirational speaker and I LOVE doing that, too. I have lots of energy and I find speaking a wonderful way for me to release and to share. I guess that makes me an ambivert - a person whose personality has a balance of extrovert and introvert features.

 Over the years that I have been writing, one of the things I have learned about myself is I am not an oddity in the writing world. I know in the 'real' world a few shake their heads but I am learning that God made me 'that way' for a purpose. Since I have been surrounding myself with other writers who have quirks and odd things happening in their heads, I feel much better. I am not alone

Just at the right times, God has introduced me to some wonderful people - other writers. It's good to be understood. 

I am a member of quite a few writing organizations and groups, but the two professional ones that play the most important part in my writing life are Inscribe Christian Writers' Fellowship and The Word Guild. I also belong to other professional groups, but these two have influenced and molded me in ways that are hard to describe. Sometimes I wonder why I have to belong to two similar organizations, then I remember my two visuals. Belonging to Inscribe is like grabbing a cup of tea and sitting on the couch talking and sharing all things writing. Membership in The Word Guild is like having a great business luncheon and discussing details of the next project. Many of my writer friends are members of both and I love that. We sharpen each other. 

Quite a few years ago I started Writers Unite. We are a local group who meet in the local Studio Factor, which is a great place for artists to come and be inspired. I was the only published writer to begin with but over the years others have been published while others have gained confidence and write blogs, plays, fiction, Christian inspirational stories and so much more. I don't always have to lead  which is nice for me and it warms my heart to see the passion pour out on the page each month. God has blessed these writers (and me!) so much since we started meeting together. Sometimes we end up being a bit of a therapy session because someone has challenges and we just feel so very safe sharing. We are friends and we have each other's writerly backs. And I love that. 

Back in June of 2015 God laid something on my heart that I am so grateful for. He knew my propensity for hiding in my office, but He also knew I did have a need to communicate and grow. I felt an urge to reach out and start a private Facebook group not only for writers, but also for readers. So I did. 

July 1st was the debut post for our Angel Hope Publishing group. We have 471 members composed of writers, readers, librarians, editors and publishers. I felt God impress upon my heart that this was not about selling my books. It was about sharing, engaging conversation and encouraging Canadian authors and readers who may or may not be Christians - then there is that byproduct of seed-planting.

 At the beginning I had some issues with a couple of members who didn't like the faith aspect (I also felt this would be a place to speak about glorifying God through words). But now, I absolutely love the contact I have here with others. I learn so much and I am encouraged. I pray that that happens for others, too. Some participate regularly. Some when the topic hits home. Others like the contests or the quizzes. While others are just quiet and read. I am so thankful for the way it has worked out. We are a closed group so people have to request to join. I want Angels to feel safe and blessed. 

Sure, I would like to spend more time doing me, me, me things and following my own ideas. Then I hear that little Voice whispering words like, 'Therefore encourage one another and build each other up. . .'

I keep trying (because of Him). 

               Glynis

Diving In - Glynis M. Belec

I did it. I took the plunge. I have been praying and thinking about starting up my own little publishing company for a while now but there seemed so much to learn, so much to read. Precisely three weeks ago I bit the proverbial bullet and did it. Angel Hope Publishing is my official name and my first customer
was me!

Granted, taking the first step was a tough decision but once I put one foot in front of the other things started falling into place. I have plenty to learn and copious binders of information to study. I have courses to take, tutorials to view and lots of details to devour. But I have this wonderful, calming peace in my heart and I really feel I am right where God wants me.

Today I had a Timmie's date with my editor, Carolyn Wilker, and in between her sipping a berry smoothie and me supping my apple cinnamon tea, we discussed the next phase. She agreed to help out with editing and soon we were chatting about projects and potential.

Angel Hope Publishing -
my first book! 

I hardly remember the drive home after we had downed our drinks. My mind was abuzz with strategy, business plans and marketing. It just seems that once I had made that big decision to 'just do it,' then my brain was able to move on in a different direction. I kinda' liken it to having a yard sale - it's tough initially to make a decision to sell my beautiful ceramic what-not that I have had on the shelf collecting dust for years. I look at it. Think about it. Debate with myself. Then I make the final decision and slap a $2 price tag on it. At that point there is no turning back. Once it makes it to the for sale table then it doesn't return - marking it down to $1 doesn't hurt one iota. I like my decision and am proud of myself for having the fortitude to follow up with action.

I am very much feeling that making the decision to start writing and publishing more and procrastinating less is a blessing from God. It just plain feels right. And it's funny how things around me have fallen into place, too. I would, however, function so much better if God would choose to show me the writing on the wall because there are a lot more decisions to make, but I journey on with great expectations, anyway.

I'm thinking (actually I know) that if all the changes that are happening in my writing life are God's intention then something good will happen. Sure, I have had some tough blows over the past years but in the strength of Jesus alone, I endure and keep dodging that knock-out punch.

My three-fold advice to anyone contemplating a writing decision is to first pray, then obey and whatever you do - don't run away! You won't be sorry. I had my first paid writing gig in 1986. I was plumb excited - I remember it well. Over the years, my writing life has been slow but steady; sometimes painful (rejected) but often productive (published) and ultimately splendidly rewarding.

Oh...and the scripture verse I heard this past Sunday?  I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength! Philippians 4:13.  (Thanks, God. I needed that!)