Russ Towne's A Grateful Man

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