L.T. Suzuki, click
here to update your pages on AuthorsDen.
Blogs by L.T. Suzuki
Thanksgiving Day: Gratitude 10/6/2012 10:19:55 PM
Taking a moment to say 'thank you'! It’s the Thanksgiving Day long weekend in Canada and I don’t care who you are or where you call home, the vast majority of Canadians I know love the extra day off just to relax or spend time with friends and/or family. Where some view this as nothing more than a chance to indulge on turkey and all manner of turkey leftovers, I’ve discovered that the older I become, the more reasons I find to give thanks for all I have and to all those who have made this journey I’m about to embark on a reality.
When movie producers began making some serious offers a few years ago, a dear friend and former co-worker, Debra Lee Donnelly said to me: “Did it ever occur to you that everything you endured, all that happened, and everything you did in your life was meant to lead you on this path, and to this very moment?”
Now, as the first in a major motion picture trilogy marches steadily toward production, my friend’s words resound now, more than ever.
Those of you that write know it is a solitary endeavor, but along the road there are those who keep you going. Whether it be showing up to my book signings, supplying me with those much needed moments of distraction with a coffee or lunch break, acting as Beta readers and so much more, there are so many I am thankful to for their generous act of support and kindness along this journey.
On this Thanksgiving weekend, I’d like to thank the following people that have left an indelible mark on my life and have given me this much-needed support:
To one of my favourite writing teachers, the father of modern day fantasy, Terry Brooks. Over the years, I’ve learned much about the craft of writing from Mr. Brooks. The last time we met, he wished me well upon hearing that my novels were optioned. I hope we cross paths again in the near future so I can thank him again, in person.
To one of my favourite Canadian authors, Jack Whyte. I still remember our first meeting during my debut book signing almost a decade ago as well as my first Blue Pencil critique session with this author several years later! I’ll never forget how he read the opening scene from the movie-optioned series with that Scottish brogue of his, and with such feeling that I was transported into this imaginary world I had created. I also appreciate his kind words of support after praising my efforts during that Blue Pencil session. These words of encouragement have helped to keep me focused on honing my writing skills.
To Michy Gustavia, the executive producer who believed in the dream of making the Imago series into a major motion picture trilogy so much, the dream is about to turn into reality! This is every writer’s dream, to see his or her book adapted for the big screen, but to be included in the creative process is a dream-come-true for me and an opportunity I am so grateful for! Michy made it possible for me to quit my day job last year, freeing me up to focus on writing fulltime! Another reason to be very thankful: she is pulling together a wonderful, talented, award winning production team with experience and vision.
To Pauline Walsh, Program Coordinator for VCon 37. Thank you for feeling my knowledge and experience was worthy, enough to include me on a number of panels for Canada’s premier and longest running sci-fi/fantasy and gaming convention. It was an honour and a privilege to be included in this event!
To my former literary agents Jason Cangialosi (formerly of the National Writers Literary Agency of New York) and Jenoyne Adams (formerly of Bliss Literary Agency in Los Angeles). Even though we had parted company, your vote of confidence that my novels are worth sharing with the world was a huge boost to my confidence and attitude that I am indeed a genuine author.
To all the fans of the Imago & Dream Merchant series. Although my early endeavors were meant as a gift for my daughter when she grows up and I’m long gone, the only reason why the Imago series expanded from the original three I wrote was because you kept asking for the next adventure! Thank you for helping to spread the word and for posting those fabulous book reviews.
To all my dear friends who have witnessed my journey from book as it heads to the big screen. You’ve cheered my accomplishments along, every step of the way, and I am grateful you’ve been there, picking me up whenever there was a misstep or I needed to hear words of encouragement.
To all those on Twitter that reached out to me and continue to cheer me on! I’ve connected with so many wonderful writers, readers and booker bloggers and reviewers here. You make the writing process a little less solitary.
To my lovely daughter, Nia. Not only is she a constant source of joy and inspiration, she has reshaped my view of the world and has taught me how to be a better person! If it were not for her words of encouragement and drive, we would not be working on the fourth installment of the Dream Merchant Saga now.
To my husband Scott. He has survived watching me write twelve novels and has always made time to read each novel before anyone else. His skills as a graphic artist have been invaluable. It has resulted in the design of each book cover and he would always make the time to create the postcards and bookmarks that have helped to spread the word about my fantasy worlds. His good humour and outlook on life has been a source of amusement and inspiration.
On this day, take a moment to reflect on everything you are thankful for. An attitude of gratitude gives your life a fresh perspective and renewed hope, for the road to success is never travelled alone. Happy Thanksgiving Day!
