Last week my book was rejected by a major publisher. Although I knew it was a longshot, deep inside I hoped that God would move them to accept it. Christian publishing is in crisis, and few publishers risk new authors without a built-in following (mega-church pastor, blogger with thousands of readers). My faith knows that God can overcome such obstacles but trusts his plan. His greater will is that I look like Jesus, perhaps involving a lot of rejections.
After receiving the news, I contacted people who have prayed with me about the book. Their responses varied, but my favorite was “Oh pooh!” When we experience disappointment, pain, or loss, it is validating when others mirror our feelings. Expressions of sorrow and disappointment were salve to my wounds.
Although I appreciate every heart-felt response, some of them weren’t quite as uplifting as intended. (My disappointment was minor compared to true hardships, but similar comments either encourage or not.) What kinds of remarks were less than encouraging?
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