Book Release Eve

My book, Becoming Mister Ross, is releasing on Amazon tomorrow. It’s kind of hard to believe. I’ve gone through the emotional rollercoaster at varying points in this process. I felt the pain of putting some difficult memories on paper. I experienced impatience when ideas weren’t coming together or when I hit snags with the cover and editing processes. I felt apathetic at times that no one might care about my book and maybe it didn’t matter if I wrote it. And as I am writing this, I’m excited and ready for the release day.

I’ve learned over the course of writing this book that writing is so much a process of sculpting. It’s not so much about thinking of fancy synonyms or analogies, or meticulous outlining, but rather taking what’s already on paper and moving it around, or shaping it, or elaborating on it enough times until it fits.

What might be surprising to hear is that my book wasn’t written in order. Some events were added later and the insights were written sporadically. With the help of a spreadsheet and a written outline, these insights were inserted like cards into envelopes to where they felt most relevant. Most insights stayed where they were put the first time.

I feel that my book isn’t so much a celebration that I achieved a milestone others dream about, as the comparison part doesn’t seem important to me. What feels more important is the fact that I completed a long-term project and that it was a project based in love. This love is from God as He compelled me to write this for reasons I don’t quite understand. Also, this book was written for myself out of love. A part of me wanted to be heard by others and by myself.

Additionally, this book is a celebration of those who have supported me. I purposely left the acknowledgements section of my book long, and if I listed the many friends and loved ones who have been with me throughout the journey, it may have gotten its own chapter. I see how happy people are when they congratulate me and ask for a copy of the book. In a way, it’s a community achievement as well. Aren’t all of our achievements?

I intentionally set the book release date, June 29th, on my birthday. It truly is the best gift I could give to myself. Similarly, birthdays are best celebrated with those we care about, so what better day to celebrate the book release with my loved ones.

The fears about others liking the book or understanding what I’ve shared, they’re in the background at the moment. What stands out is the opportunity for the book to get in people’s hands and for them to not only see me, but also to better see some part of themselves.