Faithful are the wounds of a friend, But the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.
Proverbs 27:6, KJV
One of my colleagues published her first book. Since I purchased and read a copy, she called and asked for my opinion. I stumbled over what to say because I didn’t think the book was written well. She finally said: “If you’re my friend, I need you to be honest and tell me what you think about my new book.” So I did. I told her what I liked about her book and then shared my feedback on how I thought it needed to be improved. And though I was sure she would be angry about the negative feedback that I shared, she told me she appreciated my honesty, and that I was a good friend.
Aspiring writer, if you have joined a group to receive critique of your work, be open to the feedback you receive about your writings. Although you may be tempted to defend your work, listen instead as they offer you feedback for how to improve your craft. It may hurt initially to hear that your work is not yet ready for publication for the Christian marketplace, but in the end you’ll appreciate your critique group for being your “faithful friend.”
Writer-to-Writer: Are you a part of a critique group? How has being in a critique group helped you improve your craft as a writer? Post your comments on my blog. I enjoy hearing from you!
Aspiring writer’s’ prayer: Father, even if it hurts, help me to be open to receiving feedback about my writings, so they can be ready when I submit them for publication for the Christian marketplace. Amen.
Sharing the journey,
Jeaninne