I’m a member of several writing groups and I can’t say how much those people mean to me.  Not only are they great friends – we would do anything for each other, and have – but they are such great writers that they have made me a better writer.  I’ve learned so much from them.  I’ve learned to write better, to enhance my self-confidence, and often learned humility.

We gather to critique each other’s work, identify our mistakes, and hopefully lift each other up.  As a writer there are times when I look at my work and think what garbage.  I can’t do this anymore!  I know I’m not alone in these feelings.  I’m sure many great manuscripts were tossed in the fire when the author’s inability to see beyond their own failings made them throw in the towel.

My writers’ groups won’t let me throw in the towel – or the manuscript in the fire.  They know, they’ve been there and made all the same mistakes.  Their support keeps me traveling down the road less traveled.  If you are a member of one these groups you know how I feel. They are invaluable to artists of all types; they are your peers, your teachers, and your cheering section.  They tell you when you’re right and never fail to tell you when you are wrong.  They make you think you are better than you are, but most of all they won’t let you quit.

My hat is off to support groups of all kinds – the ones that tell you that you can do it!

Who is your support group and what do they do for you?