The year 2020 was a year most like to forget. Last year was not all that different for me since I deal with suicidal and depressive modes on and off. And in recent years, I discovered I am autistic. Writing was on the back burner for me. The most I accomplished in writing was a collection of poems dating back from two years ago. Summer 2020 was another low of not wanting to deal not only with my inner turmoil, but watching the world implode. I wished for death.
I wanted to swallow pain pills and drift off and never come back. But something snapped me out of it. Call it what you will, divine intervention, inner strength, whatever, I decided to look over my collection of poetry.
In September 2020, I combed through my poems I posted on Instagram, a spark happened. I got the crazy inclination, why not gather the poems I love, and publish them.
Several weeks, I went poem by poem, tweaking, slowly gathering my collection. I ended up with one hundred and fifty of my poems, ready to publish.
I went to Amazon Kindle, downloaded a template, and began typing out each poem. I searched through Amazon’s templates for the perfect cover. On October 25, 2020, the day arrived to publish my book, A Glimmer of Hope.
It is now January 2021. I have marketed my book all over social media. I have made many writer friends on Twitter, who are the best supportive group. And yes, through my hard work and determination I am getting my book sold.
Some tips I could possibly offer when one wants to give up, is walk away from your project. I know this seems contradictory, but trust me, when in a funk, you need to clear the mind. I find going on a hike in the woods renews me. If nature isn’t your thing, go to a local coffee shop and take in the environment. Heck, watching your favorite Netflix show. Volunteer at a local charity. Read a book. Reading others works can sometimes bring a new perspective to your writing. An important thing to remember, there is nothing wrong in taking a break from writing. And never punish yourself if you take a longer break then needed. Better to be refreshed and enjoy what you are writing instead of it feeling like a chore.
My advice to all writers, no matter what life throws your way, your writing counts. Someone out there wants to read your work. Never give up on your dreams because nothing is impossible.
Cassandra Peak (Reiman) was born August 1, 1971, in Chicago, Illinois. When she was six, she moved to Canada with her parents and siblings until her parents separated when she was eleven and she moved back to Chicago with her mom in 1982. Cassandra’s life has been filled with hills and valleys. She has dealt with ongoing depression/suicidal experiences, along with abuses growing up, and discovering in recent years being autistic. Her outlet in life is mainly writing poetry. She is dabbling in putting together a couple of children’s books. Her hope is to bring awareness to others who are autistic. Connect with Cassandra on Twitter @CassandraPeak or find her on Amazon.