It's even more important to keep up the writing boundaries during difficult times, because the time writing winds up being your sanctuary and your rest space from the stress of dealing with the family crisis. I find that when I hold my boundaries, I am able to handle everything else in life with a clearer head and more grace. When I let the boundaries get breached, everything goes to heck.

As I tell my students, no matter what is going on in your life, there is always "time" to write. Writing is ALWAYS a choice. Not writing is ALWAYS a choice.

Writers choose to write. Those who like the idea of writing rather than the writing itself choose to make excuses.

I know many successful writers who also have full, demanding personal lives full of families and caretaking duties — but they don't stop writing.

The writing helps them keep perspective and gives them the strength to deal with the rest.

And thank you. I never know what to say in these situations, either. Now I know that any words of comfort are appreciated. Love seeing you here.

Cathy, I'd love your wisdom to be part of this year's Writers Worth. Please. 🙂 And thanks for the hugs. I appreciate them. Tough watching someone you love struggle with life.

Hugs

You know I am always happy to submit to Writers Worth. Just tell me when & where.

Virtual hugs, my friend.

"We don't allow people to discipline our children, take our car keys without permission, steal from our wallets. But we allow our time to be manipulated and our writing to come after everything that is supposedly more important."

That really hits home, too. It seems so simple but why is it so hard to get those priorities straight?

Actually, I would love to hear from ANY of you who want to post something about how you find or assert your value and worth in the market. Please send an email. Paula, thanks for getting the ball rolling. Again. I swear you get more excited about it than I do sometimes. 🙂

Priorities can be fluid, especially in trying times. Right now, family and "life stuff" needs to be your priority, and you'll fit in as much work as you can.

I know how strong and stubborn 90-somethings can be, so I hope your mother-in-law recovers and regains her previous good health.

Given the regulars here, I can safely say: If there's anything we can do, let us know. With Writers Worth Week(s) around the corner, just tell us how we can pitch in to help you plan it.