Pulling a Story….
Written by Michele T on April 27, 2008 – 7:27 pm -
As writers we pour out our hearts and souls onto endless blank pages. We share our talents, memories, wisdoms, adventures, research, vulnerabilities, and imaginations with the world.
It’s hard to let go sometimes (ok, most of the time) to let editors do what they do best. They are, after all, called editors for a reason. They do what they’re supposed to. They edit. Some of us take it in stride (without hurt feelings). Others get emotional and cry. And others become angry, defensive, and I’m sure there are some who curse the editor or stir up trouble in one way or another.
Why am I rambling about this? I just decided to pull a story that had been chosen to be published. I won’t share details. That’s not the point I want to make. Besides, that isn’t the type of gal I am. I don’t speak ill of others. It’s not positive or constructive to do that.
What is my point? It’s this: Don’t sell yourself out for a few dollars and a byline. Ever. If your heart isn’t in it, then you shouldn’t be either. I don’t care what magazine, anthology, website, business, brochure… whatever. Our words are a valuable part of who we are as writers. What we say and how we say it is worth more than any dollar amount. At least that’s how I feel about it. I choose to pull this particular story because it was edited until my memory and I disappeared. There was nothing of me left in it. It was someone else’s story –not my own – and I can’t let that happen. Sure, I lose a paycheck and this exact opportunity for having a story published, but I’m keeping my integrity intact. And that is important to me.
I pondered this decision for days. I talked with the editor on the phone. This editor is a great editor, wonderful person, and successful in all areas of their life. We’re still on wonderful terms. There’s no hurt feelings, no bad vibes–just understanding on both our parts.
The editor told me the changes were made because that’s how it had to read in order to be published. I told them I understood completely. It’s not that I can’t take constructive criticism or have my work altered to be made better, more readable to the world, more polished. I thrive on learning from those who are more advanced than me. I love to absorb all the wisdom I can from anyone I can.
I’ve learned so much since I first started writing. It’s amazing to me how time and experiences change us so much. A year ago, I’d have been broken hearted to be so close to having my story printed at X publication. But now…. I’m fine with it. I’d rather pull my story than have my precious memories and treasured event tarnished with regret and disappointment. The editor could relate and even shared their own experience of pulling a story themselves for the same reason!
Writing isn’t about recognition, money, or even making it to the best seller list. Sure, most writers (those who dare to dream) fantasize about their name being on a best selling title, or becoming rich writers, being on TV shows, having their books become movies. Yada, yada, yada.
Writing, for me, is about spilling my heart—every fiber of my being—onto blank page after blank page. If I’m blessed, those words will fill up empty, hurting hearts with hope, inspiration, motivation, joy and peace. If I’ve done that for even one person, then I’ve become the writer I always wanted to be….
P.S. For those of you who feared I died or thought I’d fallen off the edge of the cyber highway, I assure you I’m alive and well. Life’s “chaotic adventures” just slowed me down for a while, but I’m back and I appreciate all of your devotion, kindness, and your considerate e-mails and comments have blessed me to no end! I know now more than ever that this blog truly is a genuine community and I appreciate each and every one of you who stop by to read, share your wisdom and friendship. I started this blog to be an encouragement. Imagine my surprise to find you all encourage me! Thank you!!
Spring is here! Hope your writing is blooming all along the cyber highway!
Grab my feed so you can travel the cyber highway with me, or subscribe by email.
Posted in Writing Wisdom | 28 Comments »
April 27th, 2008 at 11:20 pm
Michele,
What an honest, thoughtful post! Thanks for sharing your ideas, feelings, and experience with us. It isn’t easy to pull a piece that’s about to be published, so I commend you for having the determination to do the right thing–for both yourself and your readers. There are times when we have little choice but to do this if we’re to be true to ourselves.
At times like these, it’s good to remember that there will always be another day, another publisher, and another opportunity to have our story published. And if it’s meant to appear in print, we’ll find that publisher eventually.
Glad to see you back writing the cyber highway!
Blessings,
Jeanne
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April 28th, 2008 at 12:40 am
Michele, welcome back! I bought a spot in your top spots, but somehow it’s not showing up. I gladly support all your blogging endeavors, though.
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April 28th, 2008 at 1:21 am
Thanks, Jeanne! I’m so glad you enjoyed my overdue post.
Yes, it’s hard to pull a piece, especially when you’re excited but I’d much rather be true to myself than regret it later.
You’re absolutely right! There’s always another day, publisher, opportunity to get a piece published. I know it’s meant to be for this particular piece to appear in print so I look forward to finding the right time and place.
I’m glad to be back too! I’ve missed writing the cyber highway!
Smiles,
Michele
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April 28th, 2008 at 1:29 am
Hey Susan! Thanks.
Aw, I apologize for the troubles with Top Spots, Susan. I can’t seem to gain access to my account. I’ve tried everything, including contacting them. The only thing I can think of to do is just take it down and perhaps refund you. I don’t know how to resolve it. Amanda at From Ink to Ether has had trouble too. I bought a spot on her site and you’ll see numbers one and two on hers are just blank…. one of those should be showing Writing the Cyber Highway. I think it might be troubles with it working properly just in general. Just drop me an e-mail and we can discuss your refund. 
Thanks so much for stopping by (and for being such a support!). I genuinely appreciate it.
Smiles,
Michele
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April 28th, 2008 at 7:00 am
Welcome back, Michele! I was getting ready to e-mail you and make sure you were ok, but now that you’ve posted, I know you’re alive and well so I’ll not e-mail you now.
Sorry to hear about your story mishap, but I’m certain you done the write thing, and writing from your heart is the way it should be.
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April 28th, 2008 at 5:15 pm
Glad you’re back, Michele. I missed you.
Your decision was a tough one, but those are the decisions that strengthen us as writers. Good for you for being able to make it.
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April 28th, 2008 at 8:20 pm
Hi Misti!
Thanks for your concern.
I really appreciate it! I’m ok, though.
Yes, it’s sad about my story in a way but I’m really pleased with my decision. A weight lifted when I officially pulled it and I look forward to finding a new home for my words.
Smiles,
Michele
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April 28th, 2008 at 8:23 pm
Hey Lori! I’m glad to be back. I’ve missed you (and everyone else) too!
I agree, the hard decisions make us stronger writers. I’m glad I was able to make that choice too.
Thanks for stopping by!
Smiles,
Michele
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April 29th, 2008 at 5:59 am
*big hugs* Welcome back, beautiful. We’ve really missed you and I’m glad, despite “life’s chaos” you’ve continued to write and submit.
Congratulations on having the courage to pull a peice. That is actually a major feather in a professional writer’s cap. It shows a confidence in yourself and a respect for your writing and the passion that brings you to the page. It can be a tough decision but ultimately will work out best for you and the publisher.
It’s great to see you blogging again and I’m looking forward to continued reading.
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April 29th, 2008 at 3:33 pm
Beautiful? Aw, *blushes* (((BIG HUGS))) to you too!
I’ve really missed all of you too, my blogging family….
Yes, I am still writing. I’d wither away if I didn’t.
Thanks. I love how you put it: That is actually a major feather in a professional writer’s cap. It shows a confidence in yourself and a respect for your writing and the passion that brings you to the page.
I’m glad to be blogging again, Rebecca. If I can help it, I won’t let this blog be silent for so long again. I feel bad about that but it did me good to step away for a while. I can hop back on the cyber highway now refreshed.
Smiles,
Michele
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April 29th, 2008 at 7:58 pm
Good for you, Michele! Just a testament to the true and genuine woman that you are! Good to see you back!
Lisa
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April 29th, 2008 at 8:17 pm
“What we say and how we say it is worth more than any dollar amount.” A truer phrase may never have been typed.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Michele, and I’m glad you’re looking at the circumstance so positively. I strive to find that in my life, which each little decision placed before me.
Hugs and blessings to you, lady.
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April 29th, 2008 at 8:44 pm
Hi Michelle,
Don’t ever, ever, ever, ever be afraid to say no. If I’ve learned anything along the way, it is that the biggest losses in my life were when I went through with something because I was pressured externally into something that wasn’t “me”.
The price you pay and the endless heartache is NEVER worth it.
be blessed–be strong–be loved,
julia
julia ward – a BLINDING heart – a writer’s blog – http://www.ablindingheart.com
check out my latest post:
Mostly Mangled and WEbook
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April 30th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
My first time on your blog, but I’m loving it..very inspirational
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April 30th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
Hi Lisa,
It’s so good to find you on the cyber highway again!
Aaawwww….
*blushes*
You all are just killing me with kindness! I’m so touched and honored by all these sweet comments!
Thanks, Lisa, for brightening my day!
Smiles,
Michele
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April 30th, 2008 at 3:22 pm
Hi Janna,
I’m glad you liked that phrase. I feel like it’s true. Our words are valuable. They’re part of us. Folks shouldn’t take that for granted, eh?
I enjoy sharing my thoughts here on the cyber highway and I do try my best to find the positive aspects of any situation. It’s not always easy, but there’s always a silver lining–if we’ll just look for it!
*hugs and blessings to you too!*
Smiles,
Michele
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April 30th, 2008 at 3:27 pm
Hey Julia,
Thanks so much for sharing your experience and advice. It’s so true that when we’re pressured into something that isn’t “us” we pay ’till the end. It isn’t worth it and that’s why I just pulled the story. Like Jeanne said in her comment at the top, there’s always another day, another opportunity, another publisher. I’ll find a home for my story, a home I can be proud of.
I am blessed and loved. Just look at all these comments! Now I just have to be strong. :0)
Thank you!
Smiles,
Michele
P.S. I’ll be over in a bit to check out your fantabulous new post.
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April 30th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
Hi XUP,
Welcome to Writing the Cyber Highway! I’m so glad you took the time to stop by and share a few words.
I’m honored that you find my blog inspirational. I strive to be an encouragement, to inspire. It thrills me when I read comments like these and find I’m succeeding. In turn, I get to be inspired by my dear readers. I cherish each and every one!
Smiles,
Michele
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May 1st, 2008 at 9:38 pm
Hi Michelle,
Thanks for stopping by my blog.
Don’t ever doubt that you made the right decision pulling your article. It’s not always just about the money or seeing your name in print!
blessings,
julia
julia ward – a BLINDING heart – a writer’s blog – wwwa.blindingheart.com
check out my latest post:
My Father Wore Two Pairs of Pants
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May 2nd, 2008 at 4:25 pm
Michelle,
I’m glad to see that you are back, we missed you.
BTW – I think that you did the right thing. Sometimes, no matter how good a story may be, it just doesn’t belong in that certain publication. Don’t despair, one day it will find it’s proper home and be published.
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May 3rd, 2008 at 3:15 am
Michelle,
I also have pulled a story for the same reason you have here. When I received the galley, the whole point of the story was changed. It would have been a falsehood and so I pulled it and didn’t sign the release. However, the editor wasn’t quite as understanding as yours was. Though I am no longer allowed to submit to that particular publication, in my heart I know I did the right thing.
Blessings for a great weekend.
Mary
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May 3rd, 2008 at 3:53 am
Hey again, Julia!
Ah, it’s no problem. I always enjoy your blog.
I’m still sticking to my original decision and I am proud I made it. I do know that it’s not about money or seeing my name in print. It’s about sharing my God-given talent with words to inspire my readers.
*headed over to read your latest post now*
Smiles,
Michele
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May 3rd, 2008 at 3:57 am
Hi Deborah,
Yeah, it was a long time I was missing, huh? I’m “tickled pink” to be back in the blogging world once again.
I’m not in despair. I’m glad you agree that it was the right choice. I certainly feel it was. I believe my story will find a cozy home too. I’ll update when I do find a home and when it’s published I’ll share that link and/or info.
Take care!
Smiles,
Michele
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May 3rd, 2008 at 4:00 am
Hi Mary,
Glad to know you’ve been in the same situation. It is sad that your editor wasn’t as understanding. I still believe you did the right thing because you are the one who has to live with where your words (ahem… edited/rewritten words) are published. I’m happy you followed your heart. It’s the only way, eh?
You have a great weekend too!
Smiles,
Michele
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May 3rd, 2008 at 1:28 pm
Hi Michele!
Woo Hoo, you’re back! About time, lady!
You did the right thing, and I’m glad the editor was so nice about it. I was going to do the same thing on a story, but the editor relented, and published my story in my “voice.” It was the first time in ten years of writing, that an editor wanted to make such major changes, and I was insensed!But polite, of course. We have to stick to our guns, so to speak.
Anyway, it’s good to see traffic again on Writing the Cyber Highway!
Happy May!
Fondly,
Renie
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May 3rd, 2008 at 1:36 pm
Hi Renie!
Yes, it’s about time.
I needed that extended break from blogging though. In country language: it did me good! *giggles*
I do believe I did the right thing. I had never had a story edited to that extent either. I had wanted to be published in that publication so badly for a long time now and was sad that it didn’t happen, but I’d much rather live with this decision than regret letting someone else’s version of my cherished memory be forever “etched in stone.” I’m glad the editor was nice too and you’re right, we have to stick to our guns.
Yes, traffic on the cyber highway is divine!
Happy May to you too!
Smiles,
Michele
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May 3rd, 2008 at 5:22 pm
Michele,
It’s good to see you blogging here again! You’ve been missed.
I think the lesson in this article is good advice for writing or anything else in life. We have to trust our instincts. If it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t! Thank you for sharing this experience.
Take care,
Tina
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May 10th, 2008 at 3:30 am
It’s great to be back, Tina. I’ve missed every single one of my readers–including you!
I appreciate your compliments. Yes, we must trust our instincts and I definitely agree that if it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t! You’re most welcome. I’m thrilled to have such a caring community here. I know you all understand what writers go through. It is so encouraging!
*smiles*
Michele
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