Monday, August 25, 2008

On track

I want to thank PJ, Nancie, Jena, and Susan for your helpful comments and offers for help when I felt so overwhelmed yesterday. It was truly good to have you there.

Yesterday morning I had a great two hour quiet time, journaling, writing yesterday's post, and emailing a friend. Prayer was a big part of it. By the end of that time I felt quite a bit better.

Susan listed several things I needed to do to help me through this busy time. Actually yesterday afternoon I did some of that. After church I came home and - with the help of some books I have on how to promote your book - I made a list of the things I need to prepare to send out to the press. Then I sat down and wrote a press release, the most difficult part of it. I was happy with how it turned out. I also started on some other things. Now I feel that, although I'm still busy, I have things in control. And having control is the most important thing, isn't it?

I do love working on publicity for things I believe in. Have done a lot of it over the years, even selling 4000 copies of a little book I put together, "The Camper's Cookbook." So I think I'd like to keep control over the promotion of A Firm Place. There are so many angles from which I can talk about it. It's news, actually.

Last week there was a series in the Vancouver Sun about the stigma towards mental illness. I was able to pick up on that and talk about the stigma that some Christians still harbour...and considering they are trying to follow Christ who modelled unconditional love! I tried to focus on the tragedy of that and the damage that causes to people who believe in God but are driven away from the church because they feel judged there. A Firm Place to Stand can prompt discussion on a lot of important issues.

Susan also suggested a press release emailing service. I looked this up and found a company I'd like to use. My husband won't be happy with yet another expense, but I think this is important. I very much need to get the word out. Still not totally decided, but it's looking like I'll do that. (Just hope I don't have a divorce over it.:) Thank you, Susan, for letting me know about this opportunity.

Another point Susan made was that I should get some help with Living Room. Actually, I'm happy - and proud - to say that I get lots of help. The members have truly taken ownership and, though I lead it, I'm not alone in the work at all. I have people helping with the food and the phoning. And at the last meeting one of our members had her debut leading the devotional and discussion. I was thrilled with the job she did. Perhaps she'll one day lead a new Living Room somewhere?

Now it's time for a shower; time to get a new day started. Hope you all have a good one.

4 comments:

Nancie said...

Dear Marja,

I am so thankful to read of how the Lord is helping you to pace yourself, to plan as well as carry out the various things you need to do! Susan shared really good points. It is amazing that you have done so much so quickly!

I am continuing to remember you in prayers. I am rereading your book as I devoured it in 2 sittings when I first received it! Now I am reading through and will take note of how I can write a review at Amazon. Praying that God will guide me on how to go about doing that.

Once I am done with the rereading and have opportunities, I hope to show your book to a Christian bookstore and see if they can help to sell your books. Praying for the Lord's guidance on this as well. Do pray with me on these 2 matters, if you can remember. Thanks!

Take care and may God continue to grant you much joy in walking with Him and serving you, guide you all the way and make you a blessing to many!

Yours prayerfully,
Nancie

marja said...

Nancie. You're wonderful! Thank you so much for your truly helpful support. I'm so very grateful to you and for you. You're a good friend. God bless you.
Love - marja

sbwrites said...

Dear Marja,
Sounds like you moved ahead and were able to complete the tasks you mentioned. Actually the press release idea I suggested is a free online service. I'm just not sure how to find it because I've never used it. You just write the release and send it off in cyberspace.

But, the good thing is that you did what you needed to do, kept your stress level manageable, and feel good about what you accomplished. It doesn't get better than that!

Susan

marja said...

Thanks, Susan. Oh I'd love to know how to access that free service. The one I found was quite expensive.