December through May became a test of endurance. Marcus existed in a liminal space—not quite a student, not quite employed, not quite recovered. He worked part-time at a coffee shop near his shared house, pouring lattes and wiping tables while his former cohort continued their studies. The work was mindless but necessary, providing income to supplement David's financial help and structure to fill his empty days.
This is what defeat looks like, Lily observed during Marcus's morning shift on a gray January day. Her voice had stabilized at a manageable level—present but not overwhelming, commentary rather than command. You were supposed to be an artist, a therapist. Instead you're making cappuccinos for undergraduates.
My goal behind receiving fan support is not just financial — though of course that helps me continue writing without as much worry about practical limitations — but also emotional and creative. Writing can sometimes feel like a lonely pursuit, and fan support, whether it comes in the form of kind words, sharing my work, or even monetary contributions, tells me that what I create resonates with people. That support allows me to grow, to take risks in my writing, and to give more back to the community that believes in me. In simple terms: fan support keeps the cycle alive. I give my stories and my heart through words, and the encouragement I receive in return becomes the fuel that helps me keep going. Ultimately, my goal is not just to ‘receive,’ but to build a relationship. I want readers to feel that they are part of the journey — that when they support me, they aren’t just helping me write another chapter, they’re shaping the existence of the story itself.
Write a comment ...