Daily Writing Prompt: What’s the hardest decision you’ve ever had to make? Why?

While there have been many decisions that have set me at crossroads and defined my life, the quickest that comes to mind was closing my flower shop in 2009. It was a choice in the end I never really had; the economy had dropped so low people had to choose between food and luxuries. No matter how you slice it, flowers, candles and the occasional knick-knack are always going to be in the luxury category. With the increase in online offerings, at the time, it was the beginning of the end for local businesses. I am beyond happy to see are making a resurgence in today’s mindset.

The decision didn’t come easy even though I was strapped for cash and struggling to pay the bills because I had tied so much of my worth into the endeavor. Failing at the business meant that I was a failure, and I fought against the inevitable for over a year, finally closing my doors after I completed my Christmas orders, and before seeing the new year of 2010.

But the decision led me to a new life, a new opportunity to learn and grow. And now, I would argue that I’m doing what I should have been doing all along… writing. Do I miss the shop? Of course I do. And I spent years running away in shame from the person who had to close her business after 10 years of pouring every ounce of heart, soul, and creative energy she had into that amazing, yet simultaneously frustrating place. But now, I look back on those times with a softer heart, and allow myself some grace since I was young and bright-eyed and didn’t know any better. At least I like to think that.

I’ve finally come full circle and am standing toe to toe with the version of myself who tried and didn’t succeed. I’m not yelling, or looking away, or shaking my head anymore. I’m coming at it from almost 20 more years of living and struggling, and I know what that woman in middle-age is going to go through. She doesn’t deserve my disappointment… she doesn’t deserve what is coming for her either. So, I open my arms and embrace her. She’s going to need love, and I’m sending every bit I can offer her. Her dreams can wait… she has time, and everything she does in the next few years will prepare her for the journey she’s on now. My message to her is… “You’ve got this. Now, get out there and follow your heart.” I’m happy to say that she’s way ahead of me.

---

Interested in my writing journey? You can head here:

The Power Of Four – Contemporary Portal Fantasy Romance Series

All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce, distribute or transmit in any form or by any means. For information about subsidiary rights, please contact the author at saraybooksllc@gmail.com.