Updates from an Aspiring Author

Hello VIP Reader

Normally, I would start with a recap of the previous month. The long and the short of it is, I fell behind on my writing by nearly 4 weeks, but I buckled down and I'm on schedule now. Wasn't easy, but I made it.

What I want to talk about is something I never wanted to speak on. Not because I have nothing to say on the subject. If you were to ask me, I honestly have a lot to say, just not many people want to hear it. And I don't blame them. As of late, my inbox is saturated with everyone's opinions (black, white / men, women) and declarations of who they stand with and why. And while I slow clap the sentiment I ask myself two questions every time I see a new "I stand with the BLM" email:

1. Where were you before?
2. Do YOU feel better now that you've "said your peace"?

As a gay, black, woman, I realize there are many "labels" forced upon me whether I like it or not. I also realize there are many assumptions made about me because of these labels, whether they are true or not. What might shock most, who have never taken the opportunity (or made the effort) to know me but base their opinions on my outward appearance, is that their assumptions are usually 100% wrong. But they are my views and I keep them to myself.

I've made a conscious decision not to speak on any of the protesting or rioting that have happened but I want to try and tell you why:

1. If I've had about enough of seeing it in my inbox, I am sure you have as well. I honestly wish the sudden influx of self-satisfaction would stop. Don't speak about it. Be about it.
2. I feel like there is this level of guilt amongst the "majority" community and those who are capitalizing on that guilt by saying "buy my" whatever. That is not me. I don't want to be that person. This is not the time nor the place.
3. I like to spend my days being thankful for my family, my friends, my job and my health. I want you all to hopefully have the ability to do the same.

So, with all that said, let this be the one and only time I feel compelled to "say something" even though you'll probably feel I've said very little or nothing at all.

Oh, and before I forget! June was my BIRTHDAY MONTH! My actual date of birth is June 27th, but I've claimed the entire month! Celebrations were great. Presents were on point. AND I have written 26 of 52 Friday Fiction stories which is pretty freaking amazing, if you ask me! Another 26 to go for the second half of 2020.

WORD COUNT TRACKER

JANUARY - 6,976 words
FEBRUARY - 9,599 words
MARCH - 8,651 words

APRIL - 10,745
MAY - 10,501
JUNE - 11,851

TOTAL: 58,323