Writing

A Soldier's Prayer

By: Jon M. Nelson

Now I lay me down to sleep,

And hope my dreams are thoughtful and deep.

I pray that tonight I’m not awaken,

By bombs exploding and the ground shakin’.

I hope that I can get some peaceful rest,

And wish that the next day will be blessed.

All I want is to sleep through the night,

So that tomorrow I’m ready for another fight.

I pray my dreams are of my family,

As I make sacrifices to keep them free.

May you watch over and keep them safe,

Several weeks ago, I was asked to write a 350-750 word article for the CEO Magazine on leadership for entrepreneurs and CEOs. Having been a Marine for over thirty-five years, mentored by some of the Corps's legendary leaders, and having led some of America's finest young men and women, can you even begin to imagine containing myself to 750 words? Wow! Well, it took me several weeks, but I was able to get the article down to 829 words; I simply could not cut another word. I hope they accept it. Stay Tuned, and Semper Fi fellow writers. Jim,

I am humbled and honored to be featured with my agent, Jeanie Loiacono, on the cover of the Spring 2014 issue of DISPATCHES, the magazine from Military Writers Society of America. 

I write a column called "The Red Pencil" for the Historical Novel Society's Historical Novels Review. This is an editing column that compares an early draft with the published version to show readers and writers how the author went from initial idea to final book.

Meet Jack Woodville London, along with 46 editors/agents from major publishing houses/literary agencies AND 25+ bestselling authors at the @SDSU Writers' Conference. Register by Jan 7 and get early bird rates.