So there I was today typing my new screenplay called Struck.  I had finished writing a rough draft of Struck a week ago and I am now imputing my hand written copy to the computer.  I write everything long-hand first and never do a first draft straight to the computer.  I think better when I’m actually scribbling words on the page. 

Today, I was waiting to hear about the 24-hour Playwriting Contest run by the Toronto Fringe Festival which I competed in last week.  The top 3 winners would be phoned.  I did not receive a call.  Later in the day, I did receive an email:

 Top 3 Winners of the 24 Hour Playwriting Contest
#1 – OUT by Ron Fromstein
#2 – Thicker Than Water by Jody Hewston
#3 – Getting There – Ashley Botting

After receiving this news, I went back to typing, but I would be lying if I told you I wasn’t disappointed.  Anytime I enter a competition, I believe I can win.  I also won’t tell you that doubt doesn’t creep in.  It does, all the time.  I fight my doubt by not giving into fear.  Fear stops you from writing.  I keep going back to putting words on the page.  And when a great idea strikes and I feel the story, characters, themes come together – no contest or judge can take that feeling away.  It has to be about the words on the page and how to make those words sound better.  That is the goal.  That remains the focus.  That is where the challenge and joy lie.   

Having said all that, I look forward to the day when my name appears in a top three position.