One thing at a time

Have you ever tried to do just one thing at a time? By that, I mean concentrate on one activity -- whether it's watching your breath or doing the dishes -- at the exclusion of all else.

As a wise man once said, our minds are like misbehaved puppies. They wander wherever and whenever they choose, whether we like it or not. But like puppies, they can be trained and disciplined.

When you do one thing at a time, your mind and body become naturally clear and peaceful. This might be one reason why so many of us enjoy writing. The focus required to put down words in a meaningful fashion is very singular -- and though often frustrating, the process of writing also is emotionally rewarding. I would argue that almost anyone who has completed a poem, short story, book, or novel will tell you that the most effective bouts of writing came when he or she was focused, in a singular fashion, on the work.

Some accomplish this in a quiet room, others with headphones, still others by escaping to a cabin in the woods. Regardless of the method, it's the attainment of singular focus that makes writing so enjoyable -- and that takes it to places above and beneath the surface of ordinary thought.

Any comments?

-- Jim

Coming Sept. 2007: Book One, The Pit

This is my first-ever posting. I recently signed a contract with Rain Publishing Inc., to publish my six-book epic fantasy series, The Death Wizard Chronicles. Book One, entitled The Pit, will debut September 2007, followed by one book a month after that until February 2008.

You've heard this many times, I'm sure, but for me this is the culmination of a lifelong dream. Now comes the business of getting people like you to read my series. In future blogs, I'll publish details on when and how to buy!

The DW Chronicles is not for children and teenagers -- or the faint of heart. But if you like graphic fantasy that crackles with excitement yet still has a lot going on between the lines, I think you'll love my series.

In a groundbreaking paradox, the Death Wizard, a champion of good, derives his power from a source traditionally seen as negative -- death. His nemesis, an evil sorcerer, derives his power from the sun, the benevolent source of all life. Their struggle to control the fate of the planet Triken will take your breath away.

In an original twist never before seen in this genre, the Death Wizard is able to enter the realm of death during a "temporary suicide." Through intense concentration, he stops his heartbeat briefly and feeds on death energy, which provides him with an array of magical powers.

The series also is a love triangle involving two desperate characters attempting to come together despite the machinations of an all-powerful psychopath with incestuous cravings.

Graphic and action-packed, spanning a millenium of turmoil, The DW Chronicles carries readers on a journey they will never forget.

Do you fear death? The Death Wizard does not. Find out why.