28 Comments

This is an amazing post. Everyone needs to adjust their perspective sometimes in the face of constant rejection from gatekeepers. And you're very welcome! I knew you'd be a perfect fit.

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Wonderful and moving. I couldn’t stop reading. It ended too soon. I truly believe that when our purpose is meaningful and honorable, the universe points us in the direction of those who need us. Thank you Justin!

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This was beautiful and timely, Justin. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and that of your creative friends with us. And congratulations on your publishing opportunity! What a perfect way to share your gift for creating powerful stories in tiny packages.

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Apr 28, 2023Liked by Justin Deming

First of all, John's photograph is magnificent! I don't know what those judges were thinking! It was wonderful reading what you wrote, Justin, and the thoughts that you and John shared about the little moments that get us through. Connections with others are rewards in all sorts of unexpected ways, and that is what everyone must seek. Sometimes you have to look hard, but the rewards are there. Congratulations, too, on having your story become one that children who might not have had the chance will have the opportunity to read. Thank you for sharing this lovely message, Justin.

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Thank you for sharing this, Justin. This is a great perspective to have, and one that I share wholeheartedly. We're often looking for that big "payoff", not realizing the amazing little connections happening around us that build something bigger and more sustainable. Happy to have made the connection with you!

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Excellent read! Thanks! Also, congrats on your venture with the WalloBooks Project. That’s wonderful! Sometimes those small waves really do keep us afloat.

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Wow! Well written. Congrats on the Wallobooks Project! Well deserved.

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This is an excellent read and absolutely spot on. I love that quote and feel that folding it into my own perspective and experience as a writer will be a positive step! Thanks for this Justin.

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terrific, much to consider here. I have a very packed weekend ( Im buying more duct tape in half an hour ) but I will get back to your monday with comments and hopeflly a story for the kids in Indiia. I might get corny and write about a reuben sandwich in New Delhi, or presidentt coolidge cutting classes in Calcutta long ago. AH, so many choices!

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Justin! This makes me so happy. You have written a heartfelt ode to appreciation from many perspectives. John’s images always bring me joy and sharing his words with us in this post is an added treat.

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Lovely post Justin! One thing I’ve been thinking about lately is, what is the difference between contentment and complacency. It’s a tough balance to keep pushing our craft forward without worrying about the outcomes that are out of our control.

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Yes, encouraging to the soul.

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Small waves. Yes! Even inspiring one person to comment means a lot, doesn't it? . Thank you, Justin, for sharing this story and for the interesting references. I look forward to following up on them. Your friendship with John is beautiful.

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Very well said Justin. We should all try to maintain this perspective. "Appreciation for your work comes in small waves." Your empathy for your friend's rejection is quite touching.

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