When Opportunity Knocks - Tracy Krauss

It's a bit of a cliche, but when opportunity knocks, make sure you at least answer the door. Fear of criticism or fear of failure keep many would be authors from reaching their potential, never mind an audience.  

Writing opportunities come in many shapes and sizes. Some writers mistakenly wait for the 'big break', but I've got news. The road to success is often paved with individual cobblestones. “Do not despise the day of small things.” In the Bible, Elijah prayed for rain and kept asking his servant to see if there was anything on the horizon. Finally, there was a cloud in the distance the size of a man’s fist. This small cloud turned into a storm that flooded the land.

Like that small cloud, seize each opportunity, no matter how small. Take whatever opportunities come your way, paid or not. You never know what might come of it.  As long as the offer is decent and morally sound, say, “Yes I can!” Even if you are afraid or feel inadequate, do it!  You just never know when a small beginning will lead to something bigger.

Murray Pura, successful author and friend, shared a wonderful example of this at a conference a few years ago. He told about the time he wrote a short story for a professor who then asked for permission to publish it in a magazine. Awesome, you might be thinking. Except, the request was for FREE. Some writers may have refused, wanting some kind of remuneration. But Murray graciously said yes. It was an opportunity for exposure. Readers seemed to enjoy the story and the magazine requested more free stories. Unknown to Murray, the magazine was picked up by a well know author who then recommended him to a publishing house. The snowball effect continued and Murray attributes this small beginning to his breakthrough into the American market and several book deals with well know publishing houses.  

I've had similar, though somewhat less dramatic, experiences. I've made it a habit to say, "Yes!" to most writing opportunities that come my way. I've been blessed to work collaboratively on various projects from devotionals to Science fiction series. If I am physically able to do it and it doesn't cross any moral boundaries, I want to be available for each opportunity that is put in my path. 

Be faithful in the small things for you never know what God’s bigger picture might look like. It may be the smallest and seemingly most insignificant offer that brings the biggest gain.

Tracy Krauss is a multi-published, award winning and best selling author and playwright living and working in British Columbia. http://tracykrauss.com