Thursday, September 5, 2013

Where I Was Standing

Word is spreading about my publisher’s recent announcement that they are closing. I have only had days to process, and because there are a lot of details and options to sift through, I can’t tell you with any certainty what will happen next with my newly released baby, DESCENDANT. (But don’t worry—I won’t let it just disappear!)

I’ve remained relatively quiet about this news because frankly, I’m a bit in shock. Less than a week previous to receiving this notification, my publisher and I discussed details about me turning in the sequel to DESCENDANT, which is about finished. Also, the way I found out was… less than ideal.

You see, I was at WorldCON, a science fiction and fantasy convention which happened to be held in San Antonio this year. It was midnight, and I was attending a social gathering, surrounded by other authors, fans, readers, and generally AWESOME people. At some point, amongst our giggling and chatting, I pulled out my phone to friend one of my new acquaintances on Facebook and my eye landed on a notice in the private Rhemalda Authors Facebook group. I won’t go into details, but I will just say the notice was lengthy, detailed, and devastating. And yes, I saw it first on Facebook.

Standing in a dark room, surrounded by excessively happy people, the floor fell out from under me. And for a few very long seconds, I couldn’t breathe.

I don’t remember exactly what happened next, but I handed my phone to a friend, who whispered something to my brother and cousin (who both awesomely accompanied me to the Convention—along with my awesome friend), and then all these arms enveloped me in a giant group hug while I cried.

When the fog lifted and the arms were removed, a swarm of supportive people joined in. Not just my family, but so many other supportive people, some of whom hardly knew me at all, but who were genuinely concerned for my welfare and happiness. Everyone in that place hugged me at some point, even though few of them knew why.

I received support from a woman who works for a company specializing in publicity, from a number of successful authors, from a Hugo winning artist, and also an editor. I was serenaded with a Monty Python sketch, and saluted, and cheered on, and held up until the tears turned to laughter, and my feet somehow found the floor again.

That night, a friend reminded me that there are no mistakes, only happy accidents. And by the time he said it, I knew that no matter what road I choose from here, I am going to be okay. My career is still moving forward, and I can still look forward to celebrating enormous success.   

The world righted itself because I realized that no matter what happens, I will never have to stand alone.

In the days that followed, I received more proof in the form of messages, phone calls, texts, and emails and so much verbal support I almost can't keep up with it. 

There will be news in the future, and soon I will go through the painful process of making decisions and figuring out details. But for now, I am more than okay. I am amazing and wonderful and zen. I’m happy with all my future possibilities. And I attribute that in large part to where I was standing when I got the news, and where I continue to stand daily. Completely surrounded by love.


13 comments:

BrendaSue said...

Wishing you the best!

Melody said...

Awwww, Nichole, I'm so sorry!!! I hope it turns out that this is the path to more than you ever dreamed, but I'm sure that doesn't take the sting away now. Count me in as one of those who support and love you and your book!

AimeeLSalter said...

I hadn't heard! I'm so sorry. What a blow. But I agree with your wise friend, everything has a purpose.

Will pray things smooth out and you look back and see this as a wonderful step in the direction that took you to exactly where you should be!

Oh, and your cover is gorgeous. Just sayin'.

Michelle D. Argyle said...

It's so wonderful to have that kind of support. I will be here when you need me, Nichole! We aren't in this alone. *HUGS*

ilima said...

*big hugs* Only happy accidents is right. This is not the end, and I know everything will work out okay. <3

lady reader said...

I'm here if you ever need me.

Much love to you. Always.

A

Unknown said...

You could be on the verge of discovering new possibilities you've never considered. There is a path that only can choose but I'm glad you have so much support and love around you. Discover that path and walk it with confidence. You are awesome!

Donna K. Weaver said...

I so glad you were surrounded by such supportive people. Makes all the difference. Good luck in all your decisions. I feel your pain.

Molly Lee said...

I hadn't heard! I'm sorry too but so glad you're seeing the brighter side :) I'm sure the closing of this door will only force another one wide open!!!

Anonymous said...

I have thought a lot about you since I heard the news. I'm sorry I didn't write or anything, I just didn't know what to say and felt like I would likely say the wrong thing. But I've been praying for you and your talent is just too large to keep hidden. New avenues are on their way to you. Hang in there. You are a fighter and one of the bravest and best people I know. Love you.

kbrebes said...

Beautiful post, Nichole--but, oh, so sorry! And maybe it will turn out to be a very "happy accident" in the long run!!

Shallee said...

This was both heartbreaking and lovely. I'm sorry for the loss of your publisher, but so glad for all the support you've got-- and your happy outlook for the future.

Peggy Eddleman said...

I was just thinking about you this morning. So sorry to hear the news! I'm glad you have such a huge support group of awesome, loving, helpful people-- that can make all the difference in the world. Everything is going to work out great for you, I know it! I'll keep my fingers crossed for you that it works out great really quickly. :)