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July 12, 2005

I. Don’t. Care.

From Alesia, fresh from a bomb threat

I don’t care. I admit it. My name is Alesia Holliday, and I don’t care a lick about all this furor over which authors write what. Or the hot “taken seriously” debate.

Nope.

We are just home from our swimming lessons, which were cancelled due to an active bomb threat at the Navy Base here. Usually, you might think “prank.” After the tragedy in London, I’m not so sure. I know it scared me. We got to leave. My husband did not. I’m sitting by the phone, scanning e-mail.

And so I find that nearly every writer’s loop I’m on is debating something like the lack of respect some faction or other is giving them. Really, are we that desperate for external validation? Is the incestuous publishing world narrowed down to such a tiny focus that, no matter what’s going on in the world, all we can think about is this sort of imaginary distinction? Or our amazon ratings?

I. Don’t. Care.

Respect? It comes from within. The reader who told me that she just received a big box of books and read mine and another light and funny book first, because she was so despondent over some personal issues and they really helped her to laugh – that means more to me than any ridiculous affirmation of respect from somebody who doesn’t even like the kind of books I write anyway.

Priorities? Maybe it wouldn’t hurt to step outside of this tiny cone of obsession. As Anne Lamott said a friend told her about something totally unrelated: It’s just a bit of chicken.

If you want to read truly great and fun books (and probably the kind of books you like or you wouldn’t visit us here anyway!!) read any of Lani’s books. Read any of Michelle’s books. Read whatever kind of book you want!!! That’s why we have a zillion different ones to choose from!

In the grand scheme of things, it’s just a bit of chicken.

Hugs and prayers for those in London still suffering,

Alesia

Posted by Alesia at 11:02 AM