I’m blogging chapter by chapter through a great book on the art of writing by James Scott Bell. I encourage you to pick up a copy of “The Art Of War For Writers”.

Tip #7 in James Scott Bell’s The Art of War For Writers is: No whining.

It won’t help you get published, Bell says.

So I recently received a note like many I’ve received before like many you’ve received before:

Thank you so much for thinking of Bla-Bla-Bla Literary Agency for your query. I wish we could offer a more personalized response but on average, we receive 500+ email query letters a week. Do know that every query letter and sample are read (Bla-Bla-Bla) and even though your project is not right for us (Bla-Bla-Bla), it might be right for another agent so don’t…bla-bla-bla…give up! I’m also sorry I have no agent recommendations to offer.

But it’s pointless to sulk and rage at the universe. Do what I do – pick a game like racquetball where you can go and smash a rubber ball around a court really hard at 125mph for an hour…and then get back to work.

Bell quotes Christina Katz, who suggests that all writers sign the following pact with themselves:

“I ______________, being of sound mind and body, do solemnly commit to keep my grousing to myself for the period of one year. This stuffing of a sock into my mouth includes, but is not limited to, whining about all matters related to the publication of my work. I will not grumble…I will not cry…I will not moan.”

Paul tells us, “Do all things without grumbling or disputing.” (Phil.2:14). ‘All things’ includes your…bla-bla-bla…writing life.