Hey, Wit!

I took myself on a little mental health holiday there for a while. Miss me?

I missed you, but mostly, I worried about serving you well. Giving what you need in a way that was easy to receive.

While I was doing all this big thinking, I realized that I’ve been holding out on you. I was afraid to show you all my cards, in case I made the whole thing confusing. But maybe if I start with my why, it’ll help even those of you who’ve been part of this for a while, better understand the big picture. :) At least, I hope.

Years ago, as my mom sat on her deathbed, she asked me to read a specific poem at her funeral. She told me she had lived a life full of regrets, and her dying wish was that her children wouldn't do the same.

That poem was RISK.

"But risk must be taken, / because the greatest hazard in life / is to risk nothing / The person who risks nothing, does nothing, / has nothing and is nothing; / They may avoid suffering and sorrow, / but they simply cannot learn, / feel change, grow, love, Live / Chained by their certitude, they are a slave, / they have forfeited freedom; / Only the person who risks is free."

That moment changed me. It’s why I don't just teach plot points; I help writers survive the hazard of risking nothing.

From now on, I won’t keep my cards so close to my chest.

I’m stepping fully into my role as a Mapmaker to help you build a body of work you love, while living a life that loves you back—especially for those of us navigating the "ch/ill" life (my shorthand for chronically ill, because why be "chronically" anything when you can be ch/ill?).

I am building a whole new Way for writers to work and live. I don’t believe the two are mutually exclusive. And I’d love for you to be a part of it.

I’m so glad—and grateful—you’re already joined me here. I’m honored to walk this path with you.

But I need to know you’re here. I need to “count the heads,” so to speak. Who’s willing to take a chance and take the first step with me?

Reply to this email and tell me: What is the one story you’ve been "risking nothing" on for too long?

I read every reply.

Warmly,

P.S. I made a pretty version of the poem for you. If you'd like to grab it, here you go! 2026-07-15 Risk Poem Wit Freebie #1.pdf​