“I would advise anyone who aspires to a writing career that before developing his talent he would be wise to develop a thick hide.” ….Harper Lee  [Writer’s Digest, September 1961]”

Having your first manuscript edited can dash your hopes of ever having a writing career. It can be a daunting experience. However, I decided this process could only make me a better writer. When an editor slashes your writing to ribbons you have two choices-be offended, crushed, and sink into malaise or learn. I have always looked at critiquing as an opportunity to learn from others who have probably been there too.  With any experience, good or not so good, there is always something positive to learn, to make you a better writer, a better person, a wiser person and to walk away with knowledge. For me, there are no downsides.