I sold my first children’s story at age 27. I sold multiple non-fiction articles in my 40s. I’ve had two Hollywood agents, good coverage on scripts, hopeful interviews, pats on the back, reassuring post-its and a whole lot of dead-air in between. Forty years on and still trying to “make it.”

Writing is no different than living. There are good days with bad moments and bad days with minutes that bring tears of joy. The only successful path is the one you’re on. The only secrets to success, are the ones you don’t have.

Everything works and nothing does. It’s all rather Zen, really. You’ll have success when you want it least. You’ll overcome the last hurdle, when you can’t go on. Writing is breathing. It’s laughing and crying and chasing the sadness by pounding on the keys until it hurts. Then do it again, but with kindness and compassion.

I love writing. I hate writing. I can’t live without it and wouldn’t try.

The only time, seriously, the only time writing is a failure, is when you stop.