A Bitter-Sweet Visit to the Past

This week, I revisited a few posts from bygone years. The oldest post was February 28, 2013. Here is what I wrote way back then:

Yesterday I glanced at the cover of a recent issue of AARP’s magazine. There on the cover was the “Hook.” Find the Work You Love!

Today is an anniversary of sorts. One year ago today, I was laid off from a great job. I have found work I love, writing, however so far sans pay. It would be nice to find a paying job.

I had to look at the article. Maybe this can help me find something that pays?

The article presents several senior citizens’ stories but is primarily about two women, Maz Rauber and Amy Reingold. The two write “juicy novels for young adults” under the pseudonym Ella Monroe.

They have an exciting and inspiring tale about the job they love. If you visit this URL, you can read the article and watch a video interview of the duo.

In the eight ensuing years, a lot of water has passed under the bridge (cliché alert). I accepted the reality of age discrimination and gave up looking for a new job, earned an MFA, and published my debut novel, The Mona Lisa Sisters.

The URL for the article no longer works. I did find a URL (https://us.macmillan.com/author/ellamonroe/) for Ella Monroe but did not locate the interview.

There were two comments left, one by my best friend Jim Kennemore, who passed away last year. I miss him every day.

The other by my youngest daughter, Katie Cramer Rosevear, who has been an inspiration to me. She is a successful businesswoman, give her a visit at http://www.lolaandivy.com

Jim Kennemore

Watched the video…Interesting. So you want to collaborate on a book? Just kidding. You know I think if you are serious (and I believe you are), I think you ought to write and submit some short stories to different publications. The pay might be small, maybe nonexistent, but if you can get published, you begin a resume. I thought about submitting that D.C. story of mine to HOG magazine a few years ago, but it was way too long…anyway, good luck with it all…JAK

Katie Cramer Rosevear:

Happy one year of writing, Dad! Thank you for inspiring me every day! Xo

 

3 Comments

  1. Michael A. Black

    George, it’s always kind of bittersweet when you look back, but also it provides a good chance to take a look at all you’ve accomplished. You’ve accomplished so much it should give you a sense of great satisfaction. And through your example, you’ve inspired many others. Stay strong.

    Reply
    • George Cramer

      Thanks, Mike – You have been a friend, mentor, and example for going on ten years. your comments are also inspiring. Thanks

      Reply
  2. Violet Moore

    Looking back moves us forward. Today, we celebrate (or bemoan) yesterdays and look forward to brighter tomorrows.

    Reply

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