A friend on Facebook and in life sent a note along the lines that she was impressed by the promotional activities I’d just begun.
I feel immensely grateful for her comment, and for all the wonderfully supportive and inspirational comments and actions of so many kind and generous people. I feel much joy on this adventure and it is in no small part due to all who have encouraged me. Thank you!
And, I feel sadness and Shame. I waited three years to begin doing “meet the public” promotional activities as I told myself and others that “I want to write not market.” I think it was really fear and laziness–two false friends I know too well– that had held me back, but at least this time it only took me three years to push past them instead of the 53 or so years it took me to listen to the whispers of my heart and begin to write, so that still feels like a victory of sorts to me. (I like to look for the and celebrate the wins where I can find them.)
I still wrestle with another false friend, Shame, but he too is getting easier to beat. The old negative messages that had been playing so loudly in my head for so many years have gradually diminished as so many of your voices have echoed and amplified the whispers of my heart.
My false friends Fear, Shame, and Laziness are gradually being beaten. They really have no chance at all, for on my side is the best team in the world. All of you.
As I type this, feelings of immense joy and appreciation wash over me, overflowing as joy-filled tears that help me to see even more clearly how truly blessed I am.
Thank you.
With Love,
Russ
Russ Towne's A Grateful Man 
Wow. Straight to my heart and soul. False friends, indeed. As I strive to free myself from these 3 as well, I appreciate the courage it takes. And I appreciate that you posted this at this time, on this day and that I was able to resonate. Much love and many blessings to a real friend!
Thank you for your kind message, Annette. I love very word of it, and was especially touched by your last sentence, particularly the last two words of it. I’m honored indeed. May I prove worthy of such comments and your friendship. I’m proud to call you friend.
Much love and many blessings to you as well.
Russ
Russ, we all have false friends like that. Everyone is struggling with some of them or others. You are fantastic and I am extremely happy that I am part of helping you to beat them! Big hugs Russ!
Thank you for helping and encouraging me even before my first book was ever written. You friendship has meant much to me right from the start of my writing adventure, and has only gotten stronger over the years. You’re always there, never wavering in your support, yet we’ve never met in person and are half a world apart. Thank you!
Big hugs to you, Ute.
Russ
Thank you so much Russ, you are dear to my heart and one day we will meet…. Hugs!
I look forward to that day, Ute! Hugs!
Russ
Well Russ, as much as you feel you are blessed, please realize how much you bless others with your kind words when they are very needed.. Diane
What a beautiful thing to say, Diane. I appreciate the reminder as I attempt to focus on being grateful for all the blessings I receive and miracles in my life. You are both.
Russ
Russ, You do have much to be grateful for and I know you realize that many people take pride in your accomplishments. (Some who have never met you but know you through your kind words.)
Reading your comment brought a big smile to my face, Clare. Many people are entitled to take pride in whatever good things I may accomplish. Their support, encouragement, and kindness are key elements in helping me to attempt to make a positive difference in the world.
Russ
I wrote my Christmas wish list ( all books) so Santa will know exactly what to bring. Yours are all the top.
Well now I have even more to be grateful for and an even bigger smile on my face. Thank you!
Russ
😊
Power on Russ! The pen is mightier than the critic and false friends. You’ve got this.
And you’ve built a great supportive community. :0)
Thank you, Marie. From my perspective a great supportive community has come together to build me.
Russ