The Blessing of Believing

I made a tough decision Tuesday. I decided to invest $59 in myself. What's the big deal, you ask? The big deal is that $59 in my world right now... is keeping my electricity on... one tenth of my car insurance that I don't have money for. A much needed trip to the grocery store!

But, there was a "How To Self- Publish Your Own Book" workshop offered through the Adult Continuing Education program through K.C.C. and I wanted to take it. I have researched, to no end, the publishing world and what options best fit my budget and needs. I wanted to hear it from someone who has done it. Put the voice of experience and reason to what I have read.
So I pondered the expense, the investment, over the weekend. "What's $59 dollars in the big scheme of things?" I declared. So Tuesday afternoon, I faxed in my payment.

The workshop was scheduled today from 6-9 p.m. The instructor/author, Richard L. Baldwin, was an excellent presenter and the information was valuable. I felt it was money well-spent.
He finished his presentation early, and said that we didn't have to go, because we had paid for three hours. The rest of the "class" left. I said, "Mr. Baldwin, if you don't mind, I'd like to take the rest of the time to pick your brain." He obliged.

So I sat across from him, presented my finished book, marketing idea and vision. Not only did he agree, he presented me with my complimentary copy of his book, inscribed with "(Mona), I see much success for you. Rich Baldwin." That, in itself, kind of choked me up.

We talked further, and he said, "You have it all together. You're personable, witty, intelligent and attractive. You have a business head and a writer's head. But I sense some frustration. What is it that has you frustrated, if you don't mind me asking?"

"Money. It's the damn money! I believe in what I'm doing. I know I'm doing what I should be doing... finally. And it all feels great. I'm ready! I just can't get over that hurdle. It's the ONLY thing holding me back right now, and I'm too proud to call in favors." I said.

"I'm about to say something, and I'm putting myself at risk of offending you... but, I want you to see it as an investment. As a testament to the fact that I believe in you and I want strongly for you to keep on this path. I want to give you $40."

(Fought back tears on that one!)

"Well, Mr. Baldwin. I am aware that I have a problem with accepting gifts, so I am going to say thank you, and accept this investment, on one condition: that you allow me to acknowledge your generosity and inspiration in my first published work."

We shook on it.

I was really touched. The gift of positive encouragement is invaluable to me at this point in my journey. Somehow, a long time ago, I lost that belief in myself. Lost touch entirely with myself. What this kind man did for me will never be forgotten.
And, as he said, when we parted ways in the parking lot... "I hope our paths cross again."