Michael, this post goes right to the soul. It's no different than asking me what God will say when I meet Him. And causes me to think about how I've treated other people recently. But for me, I'm hoping that others will remember me for making them laugh and smile. Life can be so heavy. When others bring lightness, I'm truly grateful.
Agreed, that's why it astounded me that publishers and agents didn't get it! I'm working it, believe me. Shelters are tough to crack because many of them already consider themselves as the experts. Thanks again for taking the time to dig into this for me.
Thanks for the encouragement, Mary! I suspect that thousands of people adopt rescued mill dogs, but then there are people who buy dogs from pets stores, the products of puppy mills. They will benefit from the book as will people who are contemplating buying a puppy from a pet store.
I'm an expert in a very small niche, behavior of dogs rescued from puppy mills. This has been a blessing and a curse. I have built a significant tribe consisting of people who work for animal rescue organizations and of adopters of these dogs, as well as dog trainers who wish to learn from me. That's the blessing. The curse: publishers and agents. They told me time and again that my book would never sell because it only appealed to the niche of adopters of puppy mill dogs. I went ahead and self-published the book despite their opinions because these dogs needed a voice. Now I have my tribe supporting my efforts. My book has been out for less than a month and word is spreading. Most of the people buying the book don't have puppy mill dogs, they just love good dog and human interest stories. Now they will be my tribe.
The beauty of nature connects us back to God, our Spirit. I find that doing anything outdoors with my dogs or just being around animals will re-energize me. I also like to explore new places. I'm heading to Vermont soon and can't wait to see the beauty I have heard so much about. Wide opens spaces where I can breathe and escape from crowds and noise.
This is a quite a timely post for me right now, and I thank you. My book is just about to be published and I am planning on donating some of the proceeds to several animal rescue organizations. i'm so nervous that 1) the book won't sell and 2) that it will sell a lot and I'll have a great deal of income thus a lot of income taxes! i've consulted with my tax advisor but I'm not certain that he's well-versed on this issue. I'm going to take your advice and go to someone else just to be safe. God bless you for sharing your knowledge and helping so many of us.
Thank you for being an example of "walking the talk" by taking a break. I haven't had a vacation in several years and I know it's not a good thing. A day here and there helps to recharge my batteries so I am taking off on Good Friday to attend the stations of the cross, take a long walk in the nature conservatory, and spend time hanging out with my dog. No TV, internet, or phones.
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chrisshaughness 
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