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May 2, 2023Liked by Kara Cutruzzula

Also, why did Mary Poppins come to mind when I read "A thing of beauty is a joy forever"? I think she quotes that...

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You're so right! She does!! Wow, bet Keats never imagined that...

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May 2, 2023Liked by Kara Cutruzzula

For many, reviews have more than a momentary effect. We can be motivated or demoralized by reviews for several moments/days/years! I appreciate "be undismayed" because it focuses on the process and while I LOVE to finish projects (and receive a glowing review), the day-to-day is what determines my quality of life. Thanks for sharing!

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You're so right...I've let certain feedback throw me off the trail for months (years?). But the daily process keeps my brain quiet and my typing hands happy. Thank *you* for the reminder!

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May 2, 2023Liked by Kara Cutruzzula

Yesterday I read that Lionel Shriver's "We Need To Talk About Kevin" was rejected by TWENTY publishers, just in the UK alone, before one small (lucky!) press picked up on it.

Thanks for these reminders. And your emails. Even when I don't have time to comment, I always feel moved by your gentle writing style and nudges in the right direction!

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What an inspiring story...finding the right champions is crucial. Something I didn't mention was Keats was buoyed by his close friends who told him to keep going.

Thank you so much for being here!

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Love this. But it makes me sad that it's no longer okay to just lounge on the Spanish Steps...those were the days!!

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We were told about that rule but there were many people eating lunch and hanging out so I'm not sure it's strictly enforced! Loved thinking about Keats people-watching out his window...

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Oh good! I'm so glad it's not strictly enforced!

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What a timely reflection! Coming off of a conference where every creator's message was to follow what work draws you and NOT what will "break through" or "sell" was such a great reminder to follow my instincts and heart. Being undismayed is exactly the next important part of the process.

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I love that you were surrounded by those people and that message -- what resonates most with *us* first will always be our best work! Let's keep reminding each other!

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