Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Grow little trees grow

I've spent a great many cycles these past few weeks working on syndicating my column. I'm learning that syndication is easier said than done.
Several years ago when newspapers across the country were rocking and rolling, they could be choosy about their content so syndication was difficult. 
Now with the world wide web, and people getting "up to the second" news on their phones, things have changed, and newspapers are in the process of focusing on their core mission, and being mindful of every dollar spent. You guessed it, getting a column syndicated is still easier said than done. 
I have an old friend who was a newspaper publisher for years, once told me to forget it.
I was thinking about that today as I perused through some old photographs that I shot several years ago when Jilda and I visited San Francisco. 
I came across one of costal pines that I'd used to make an art photo. It was growing out of rock. I'm sure there's some soil in there somewhere, but they're surviving.
Their fore-arbors would have told the young saps, don't try to grow on the rocks. Be sensible. It's a hostile environment there by the sea. 
But as you can see, the young saps stayed true to their calling, and I'm glad they did.
Tonight, sitting here with the rejection emails mounting, I feel a little like these trees must have felt when they were much younger.
But this much I know: If becoming a columnist, a painter, a doctor, or a great teacher were easy, everyone would be doing it.
Grow little trees grow.


  1. I'm sure you'll be syndicated, but even if you're not, we'll still have the PRIVILEGE of reading your wonderful posts!!

  2. That is a great way to think Rick... I have that attitude about some things in my life... I wish I had it all the way around :)

  3. Hang in there big guy, and keep you foot in the door and some day it will pay off. If the newspaper people are so poor why are they still printing newspapers?
    The little tree growing in the rock is a good metaphor.

    By the way Rick, I have difficulty reading that grey print. I have to strain my eyes. I don't know if it's my screen but I find black is easier too read. Just saying... :=)


  4. Lovely images from San Fran.

  5. Great photo and wonderful thoughts to accompany it.
    That's the spirit!!

  6. Good post. Good thoughts. I would pick up your column if I were still in charge.


  7. True courage, strength and endurance... persistence too! I'm betting it will grow and your work and patience will pay off!

  8. nice painting and good luck with the column.


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