Royalties

 

So, I received my first royalties for Brave Lotus Flower Rides the Dragon from my publisher, Tracey McDonald. It’s in the bank (although probably not for long because there are always bills to pay). But it sure feels good.

Royalties are paid out twice a year. It’s not a lot of money. Not enough to cover even one month of my care assistants’ salaries. (No, you don’t get rich by writing a book unless, of course, you are JK Rowling.)

But still, receiving my first royalty payout has put the biggest smile on my face and my chest is bursting with pride. I feel like a queen.

It’s not about the amount of money (although every little bit does help), or even the number of books sold (although I still dream about having a bestseller).

It’s about picking up the pieces after your body is rendered useless and your life is shattered, changing tack, starting over, chasing a different dream and working hard (and long) to achieve it.

It’s about celebrating all the people who’ve assisted in getting me here – you know who you are.

It’s about proving a point to the world. It’s about saying ‘I can’ when the world says ‘you can’t’.

It’s about educating and changing ignorant mindsets. I guess, at heart, I’ll always be a teacher.

It’s about doing something positive with your life despite circumstances.

It’s about saying, “Wow! I’m an author.” I’m no longer just a quadriplegic (read as: a useless burden). I’m a quadriplegic author. I wanted to write a book. I tried. I failed. I tried again. And again and again. Finally, I did it. After I was paralysed I never believed I would write again, let alone, write a book. But in the end, I did. I can do it again. Or I can do something different. The point is I can do anything I choose to do. I can do anything I put my mind to. When you are paralysed from the neck down, that is huge.

It’s about people out there wanting to buy my book and enjoying it enough to encourage others to read it.  I’m endlessly grateful for your support.

It’s about making a difference.

That’s the real pay off… making a difference. And I have many messages from readers everywhere to prove it. There is no amount of money or milestone which could ever match that.

Thank you to each and everyone who has read my book, been touched by my story in some way and taken the time to tell me about it. You are my soul food and daily inspiration. There aren’t enough words to express my gratitude. But thank you for keeping me going.

Brave Lotus Flower Rides the Dragon is still available at bookstores or online. You may also order directly from me by emailing me at: bravelotusflower@gmail.com