I am a newcomer at Elephant Journal. There is enough positive energy on this platform to power a nation, and I love what you are all writing. So, I’m going to give something back by sharing a positive short story with you wonderful people.

Four days ago, I abandoned a plan to publish GUY LEWIS – 51 DEGREES NORTH via a traditional publisher. I changed tact, opting to launch the book on the Patreon platform. Why? Because I wanted to do something different.

I didn’t make a fuss, or shout from the rooftops (maybe I should have). Instead, I quietly went about my business, publishing the prologue at the weekend.

These past few days have been tough because I lost a family member to cancer. This afternoon took its toll because of a busy schedule, and by the time the clock struck 5pm, I felt jaded. Before I had time to think about dinner, a notification broke my stride. Another patron had made a donation for the book.

I reacted to the notification by sending a thank you note to Paul (my latest patron) for his generosity. Halfway through the message, I had the spontaneous idea to send a group thank you note.

The decision to choose Patreon gives me flexibility, because I can connect with my readers, and it does not feel like I am spamming someone’s inbox. A patron reacted to my thank you note with a positive message.

My energy levels rose, I cooked dinner for my wife, prepared lunch for the following day, and I made two personal phone calls. I am thankful for the generosity of my patrons. I responded to their kindness with a positive intervention – it’s all about giving and taking.

Writing is great, and reading other people’s work is equally gratifying. I’m already looking forward to seeing what tomorrow brings.