May 11th, 2006:

My eyes filled with tears yesterday in the middle of my before bed email check. It wasn’t because there was another book order sitting in my Inbox, though it was greatly appreciated. It was, instead, because of this note that came along with that book order, which I offer to you now in it’s entirety.

“Some people are reluctant to buy things without seeing them first.”

That’s me. I have never Pre-Ordered anything in my entire life… until just now.

When I first read about your book I thought I would buy it as soon as it was in a form I could hold, and look at, and buy on the spot.

But reading this changed my mind. The $44.05 I just sent your direction via PayPal isn’t just about a book. It is my way of telling you that I believe in you and am willing to support your dreams with more than just words.

Your Friend,
Sheridan

Right now, more than anything else, I needed that. I needed that expression of support and belief and understanding. I needed those tears.

He’s right. It’s not about a book. It’s not about a business. It’s not about photographs. It’s not about cameras or lights or business cards or websites or models or travel expenses. It’s about connecting with people. It’s about sharing a dream. It’s about art.

I appreciate your support, Sheridan, more than I have the words to say.

I appreciate the support that everyone of you offer in whatever way you offer it: by buying “the book”:http://revjim.net/books/20054q-finding-place/, ordering “a print”:http://flickr.com/photos/revjim/tags/forsale/, subscribing to “Five-A-Week”:http://revjim.net/five-a-week/, making a “donation”:http://revjim.net/donations/, scheduling a “photography session”:http://revjim.net/photo-sessions/, spreading “the word”:http://revjim.net/2006/03/29/finding-place-linking-information/, offering yourself as a model, sending your feedback, or offering words of encouragement.

I’ll be finishing the book and I’ll be making the next one too. Not so I can sell it in book stores. Not so I can display it in galleries. Not so that I can sell more books or book more photo sessions. I’ll be finishing the book because I believe in myself. I’ll be finishing the book because I am deeply honored by those of you that support me and believe in me and choose to show that support.

Thank you all. Truly. From the bottom of my heart. And a special thanks to you, Sheridan, for supporting me, encouraging me, reminding me of why I do this in the first place, and for being my friend.