As a hobby writer and a computer programmer, I find this last year interesting. The recession, unavoidable and necessary, looms over us. Traditional publishing finds itself in an awkward position due to changing technology clashing with culture mixed with new expectations. Fighting for survival, the newspaper and magazine industries look at new technology in search of a revenue stream in the midst of consumers expecting freely available stream of information over the web. This is an exciting time watching change.

I am thankful for my job. It is more than employment. I enjoy it. My brain is wired for computer program design, and I take full advantage of it. My employment puts me in a position to lend a helping hand, a very small hand, but even the smallest aid greatly improves the potential of another.

I thank the strangers that read my first (unpublished) novel, Raven Memory, I finished two years ago. And those that read my recent short story, “Memor Mora.” They encourage me to seek publishing. At first I looked into traditional publishing, and two years ago the common feeling among publishers was that self-publishing put authors in a bad place. Not so much now. Publishers consider authors using digital publishing to build a platform first. It sounds good to me as I have my eye on new exciting ideas.

Thanks to Mom for reading everything I write, including the crap. And telling me it’s crap. I, of course, thank my parents for their support in my struggle to reach this point in life.

I thank the #FridayFlash group of writers. For those looking for good short fiction, please take a look at these talented writers offering new short stories every week organized on Mad Utopia. I enjoy reading their stories, and sharing thoughts. As of October, I participate posting my stories. Thanks for all the comments.

Agree or disagree, I appreciate all comments especially tips from other views I may never have considered. Feedback improves my writing and thinking. There’s no concern over hurting my feelings. I approve all civil comments, but readers may flag offensive language.

Thanks for reading.