On Writing : Writing Tip and Encouragement by Randolph Camp

Tell Your Story…

Don’t let others define you. There are some who are counting on you to quit. The moment we quit is the moment we allow others to label and define us. I was always a ‘school boy’, a book nerd, and I certainly was taunted and teased for it. I remember being laughed at and mocked when I used to tell others about my stories and dreams. My horticulture teacher, Ms. Birdie West (R.I.P.), was one of my favorite teachers back in Spotsylvania County because she was instrumental in building my confidence. “Randy, you’ll get there,” Ms. West would often tell me. In a world where people are getting some sort of joy out of demeaning others, we must never give up on ourselves. It’s mid-August 2025, and earlier today I was informed that four of my books will be published as hardcover editions worldwide. (I wish Ms. Birdie West was still with us so that I could share this moment with her.) We need to be proud of ourselves and never be afraid to express who we are. Don’t be afraid to tell your story. If someone else can benefit from your story then you must tell it, no matter what. And don’t let a rejection letter discourage you. Matter ‘ fact, make good use of that rejection letter by using the backside to outline your next project. – Randolph Randy Camp