I’ve been discovered.
That sounds so Hollywood doesn’t it? It’s not at all glamorous, but it does create a bit of an issue.
I work in a school and I’ve tried my best to keep my teaching life and my writing life somewhat separate. So imagine my surprise when I heard some boys behind me in the hallway today say my pen name and then talk about the Fantasy Friday posts I’ve been doing for the last few months. I know they were expecting a reaction, they were trying to tease me, but I just smiled and continued on my way. I certainly have nothing to be embarrassed about.
The question I first asked myself was, how did this happen? And the answer is simple…social media. So, now that I know my students might be reading this blog, I can use this as a teachable moment.
Actually, this is for anyone who uses social media and needs a reminder that when you put something online there’s no assumption of privacy. Everyone’s connected, and I should have realized that, sooner or later, this was going to happen.
People may wonder if it’s a problem that kids in my school are now aware that I write romance. That’s a big no. I’ve never denied my writer side and in fact, a lot of students know I’ve been seriously working toward publication and my colleagues are wonderfully supportive and encouraging. I often write when I’m on hall duty, and when people ask what I’m up to, I tell them. But this is the first time it’s gone past those I’ve chosen to tell. What’s sad is that some of those who’ve found out think it’s a big joke. It’s not.
So what am I going to do? Not much. I’m going to continue writing and working toward my goal. I’ll continue to teach and work hard for the students and teachers that my library serves. I’ll continue to take care of my family, be a proud member of RWA and live a happy life.
And if any of you out there have a question about writing or about what I’m doing, just ask. Don’t make fun. Just ask. 🙂
