Hi Passengers,
September was brutal to me. Like, more than normal. Some positives, too, like being part of the Barrelhouse conference and a couple of in-person readings. An unfortunate COVID + diagnosis soon followed. To further build pressure, I was laid off unexpectedly this week, lost my benefits, and now I’m playing the tepid waiting game with potential employers. Perfect timing for when student loans are reactivated! Writing has been halted for the most part. As the title suggests, I’m trying to get out of this quagmire.
My final meeting with my therapist on Tuesday has given me some insight. If you’ve met me, I may come across as aloof or intimidating. Trust me, it’s not that I don’t enjoy your company or conversation. I’ve just been going through it! My acute goal is to identify my feelings as not a character flaw, but a way to reframe and grow. One of those growing moments: It’s OK to lean on those who you keep in a close circle. That’s kind of the point. To relay this to a metal music concert, if people fall in a mosh pit, you must help them up. In this flurry of moshing in this life, I’m grateful to have those willing to pull me back into the show.
Thankfully, I’ve had the courage to submit my writing lately. Been getting some acceptances and publications as the year draws to a close. I’ve also been thinking about The Light to Never Be Snuffed and the planned sequel to it. After not touching it for over 2 months, I think the flame is going to be rekindled in due time. Hell, I already have over 40k words penned. I can and will get to “The End” by the time we arrive in 2024. I’d like to pretty up a sample to share with you all in a very exclusive way. More on that later.
For now, I’ll see if there are any old blogs I can resuscitate. Below is me from 9/20 at Fergie’s in Center City, Philadelphia. One moment of me experiencing genuine joy in such a tough month. Thanks for taking a ride with BD/WD. Take care.
-Josh
I love you man just keep being patient and pushing. I know you've been trying your damndest thru all this...your efforts won't go to waste.