The last time I took a formal writing course was when I was a freshman at NYU. For two entire semesters I was doomed to the horrid B+. No matter how much time and energy I invested into my essays, I would always get that grade. One time I remember I got a B+/A-. Is there such a grade? Is there?!?! That told me that it wasn’t quite a B+ but not good enough for an A-. How frustrating.

Fast forward to 2008, nineteen years later (I’m dating myself)…I’ve been accepted into one one of NYC’s illustrious writers’ groups! I couldn’t believe it! I submitted a short story and the founder of the group e-mailed me back the very next day and gave me some very positive comments about my writing. I felt I had surpassed the dreaded B+ and passed GO, collected my $200 and my A+++.

I think the reason why I’ve been able to develop my writing is because I know myself so much better…so much better. I can write with honesty and truth that I probably felt uncomfortable revealing when I was a young tyke in college. It was always within, but the key to let it out was shaped with time, experience and courage. Wish me luck! I can’t wait.