I have been 'writing' for a long time, since grade school. It was always for my own enjoyment and that of any family member who might read it. Not until I was well out of school (and I mean WELL out of school) did I even think about publishing anything that I had written.

 

I entered a poem contest and got the standard "we will publish your poem for a fee of ..." On my third try they published my poem if I would purchase the anthology that it was being printed it (and for an additional amount I could submit an Author Biography). I took the book - it was a good Christmas present.

 

Then one day I got an offer in the mail, I couldn't believe. I knew it wasn't a form letter because the ink ran when I ran a wet finger over it. It said "Dear J - I have enjoyed your poetry and am putting together an anthology of interesting poets. Please send one or two of your creations and they will be published. We cannot offer pay, but you will receive one copy of the anthology after printing." My thought was "SCORE" I am getting something published without having to pay for it. That sparked my interest and today I am working on short stories to entertain and hopefully make people think.

 

Some will like what I write and some will not, that is up to them to decide. I just hope those who do like it will let me know.

 

J.J. Silvers (jjsilvers54@gmail.com)