The Writers' Workshop: One Writer's Thank You! 100,000 Views
A MOMENT OF REFLECTION
I began this journey exactly two years ago when I walked out of an unacceptable employment situation and declared myself to be a writer.
For the first year I set about establishing my little writing business, feeling my way through the dark, stumbling around in confusion, certain of a direction but clueless with regards to implementation of my plan. I quickly discovered that SEO content writing was an easy buck, so I latched onto that and found a steady income. All well and good, because a writer needs to eat and pay bills, and SEO provided for those needs.
However, it wasn’t until ten months ago that my passion for writing was fed the nourishment it so desperately needed. At that time, I joined a site called HubPages, a community of writers who support each other in a most positive way. It was there that I found freedom; it was there that I found my voice; and it was there that I found encouragement.
More Thoughts by Yours Truly
- Complimentary Comments For Writers: The Making of a Village
A great journey as a writer begins with a single step, or in this case, it begins with a single word of encouragement from another writer.
NUMBERS DO ADD UP
Ten months ago! Tomorrow, when I post my article, it will be my 298th! During that ten month span I have had over 100,000 views, and to me, most importantly, I have received over 23,000 comments from those who read my work.
I am floored by those numbers. I do not tell them to you so that you will be impressed by my writing prowess, but rather so that I can voice how grateful I am, for writing to me is a personal, and interpersonal, exercise.
23,000 comments! I’m sorry if I’m repeating myself, but that number blows me away. I expected, at best, to make a few contacts in the writing community when I joined HubPages. I never guessed that I would gain friends in South Africa, Kenya, Wales, Latvia, and so many other nations. I never guessed that I would be in daily contact with people from all 50 states, and that I would form friendships that will last a lifetime.
QUICK REFLECTIONS
Bev, the love of my life, is constantly amazed by the depth and length of the comments I receive. It is rare indeed when I hear a simple “great job” on one of my articles. Instead, the norm is a lengthy comment that shows depth of thought and genuine compassion and understanding. In other words, through my words I have formed a connection with people, and they respond in kind, and isn’t that an incredible thing to behold! Complete strangers who don’t know me, never met me, and most likely never will meet me, form a bond with me because of my words. I am truly humbled and grateful for this experience.
Do you want the same? Let me, then, give you the secret to receiving the types of gifts that this writer has received. Are you ready?
Show your readers that you care! That’s it….show them that their view of your material, and their comment, means something more to you than just a score on your personal tally sheet.
23,000 views and I have responded to all 23,000, and I have responded with the same amount of effort as they have given me. Yes it is time-consuming, but oh well!!!! If a reader takes the time to read my work, and then takes the time to leave a meaningful comment, then should I not do the same for them?
Are you enjoying your time on HubPages?
ONE LAST THOUGHT
This is not a long article; it was not intended to be, and I don’t care if it meets the expected 1500 words that HubPages is so fond of. This article is a simple thank you to all of you who have taken the time to view my work over 100,000 times and to leave over 23,000 comments.
This is a simple thank you to those who have made the effort to befriend me, and who have shown genuine concern for me as a human being.
This is a simple thank you to those who gave me confidence and support early on when I desperately needed it.
I love HubPages! Yes, there are some things I don’t like about it, but overall I love this site.
I love the Hubbers! May you all prosper, as I have, and may we continue to find support and friendship from each other.
I love being a writer! My name is Bill Holland, and I am a writer and proud member of HubPages!
Thank you all!
2012 William D. Holland (aka billybuc)
Comments
Well what can I say? The first hub impressed me no end, so I became a follower and I was loath to comment , because anything I said would
simply be a repeat of all the comments already made.
So I voted up etc, etc, etc,
This is also well said.
Your video was awesome.
I'm glad you're blown away by these numbers, but it seems only natural to me that a writer like you would achieve such success and more is yet to come :) So cool, congratulations!
Congratulations! I am dumbfounded that I hadn't discovered you sooner here on Hub Pages. I have a lot of reading to catch up with now that I will be following you. You seem to be doing everything here that I have only dreamed about. I admire your dedication and determination, write on.
100,000 views?! Holy Mackeral, Bill HP needs to put you on the payroll! Ha ha. Well, not really ha ha - they should!
You have been an inspiration to me and a friend like I've never had. You always take time for me on a personal level. You write from the heart and you love from the heart. For that, you are ever-endeared in my soul.
Congratulations, my friend!
Lots O Love,
Sha
Congratulations Billy on an awesome accomplishment. I knew when you first joined HP and I began to read your hubs that you were going to go far and fast. Your statistics for the time you have been on HP are astonishing and extremely well deserved. The topics that you choose to write about and the finesse in your writing are top notch and very engaging. And I have always appreciated the way you share your experiences and wisdom. Best wishes to you for continued success!
Sharyn
Voted up and congrats to you Bill. Yes, with figures like that you can say you've arrived. You have a great way of expressing things and your hubs always have something of interest and of course your videos can't be beat. I often wonder if I could ever reach a level like that. You know what it is I have this gift of poetry from my dad and I think that that will be my niche. Unfortunately it won't gain me too much fame and eventually fortune but I am considering an e-book because I have poetry stored up from postings on other sights. I do know that everyone gathers around your hubs and of course I can understand that because your hubs are 100% genuine. However when I stray off the beaten path and write something other than a poem I hardly get a comment. Must be doing something wrong here so I guess I'll just keep trying and admiring writers like you. Passing this on.
Bill.. Glad you are here :) It has been a pleasure and a privilege to have met you here on HubPages and your hubs are always such a treat. A while back when I noticed you had over a thousand followers, it really didn't surprise me. You have a way of writing that inspires people and gives that good feeling right in the gut. It does for me and I'm sure it does for every one of us. So glad you are here.... please never quit writing :)
When I joined Hubpages, I thought, "wow, can I really just publish what I want and make a little extra money online?" What I didn't realize is what you have expressed above. The money isn't great or important, as the community and support for our writing is the real reward. I am so happy I found Hubpages, and I congratulate you on your contined success. Your writing is an inspiration, and I always know that I can go to your hubs and read when I need to be uplifted. Thanks for what you do.
Congratulations, Billy. It's taken you only ten months to achieve what's taken me over two years. Those are very encouraging numbers to all hubbers. Voting this Up and Awesome.
Billy; I joined HP right around the same time that you did, but you clearly have had much greater success than I have had...and you deserve it. You've written and published three times the articles I've written and published, and I know you spend a lot of time reading the works of your followers, marketing your work, etc. You are living proof that hard work pays off...I don't do anything other than respond to each and every comment, but I'm not writing for a living. I'm just writing! Keep up the great work and thanks for everything you have done for me and all of us here at HP.
Congratulations, Bill, on well earned and well deserved numbers like that! Your writings touch our hearts and souls. That is why so many long comments are left. Your writing resonates with us and we can relate to your struggles, your growth, your happiness, and yes, your serenity. I think many here on HP envy you as you have found the true answer to life and what it is all about. You and Bev have found your corner of the world and are thriving and flourishing, not in material things, but in nature and the earth, family, each other -- it is truly beautiful to see. Thank you for joining the HP community and taking such a pro-active, positive, and caring attitude here and in your writings. Most enjoyable!
Great experience. Nice having someone like you on HubPages. Congratulations billybuc!!!
Hard work pays off and with determination you can do anything you want to thanks for sharing your experience
Hi William,
I feel humble to read this hub, you did it and i know many success days are on their way towards you. You are hardworking and you surely deserve it . Congrats!! Voted up and useful.
This is really wonderful. Over 23,000 comments! I have half that maybe. It attests to your attention and dedication to other writers. You're an inspiration to many. And don't worry about the 1500 words. I may have one that meets that. LOL. You say what you say in the number of words you need to say it. And you do it wonderfully. :-)
Congratulations!! You stormed on to the scene and have been kicking butt ever sense. You have had some major successes here and every one of them is deserved. I will cheer you on to a million. :)
And thank you for continuing to write! Congrats on such an incredible readership!!!
Billy I'm so glad you are on Hubpages. I went quiet for a bit as I had some offline work, but as soon as I started publishing again you commented on something and I thought - wow! You are the kind of person who makes this such a great place to write. THANK YOU!
Congratulations Billy! I am a huge fan of your thought provoking and skillful hubs. Even though you have reached an awesome milestone, I can't say that I am surprised. In fact, I expect you have so much more to share with us. You summed it up perfectly: write with passion from your heart and you will be successful! Enjoy your day my friend. Pearl
Congratulations and much deserved. Your writing is an inspiration as well as your comments.
Another round of applause in appreciation of how much you have made this community a great place. Congratulations, Bill. Looking forward to the next milestone with you. God bless you and sweet Bev.
Bill, I guess I'm late to the party. I see all the cake and ice cream is long gone. Oh well, at least I can wish you a hearty "Congratulations" on hitting the 100K mark! Great achievement, my friend! Here's to the next 100K! Oh, you're out of punch, too? Damn, I am late! Great Job!
Hi Billy,
Congrats on those amazing statistics, the most awesome one being the fact that you have responded to each and every comment that readers have left you.
I can attest to the fact that your responses are always thoughtful and I believe that most of your followers enjoy reading the comments sections of your hubs as much as the hub itself! I know I certainly do.
May your future be filled with even more success in your writing career and a best selling book.
Hub Hugs,
Gail
Bill, congrats on the success. Bill, your a great writer and too have that many comments and views, quite amazing my friend. I believe many readers can connect with you and you always reflect great wisdom in each article. I am sure this is only the beginning for you and I am sure that you will reach big things in the near future Bill. From the heart my friend. Voted up, useful, awesome, and shared.
Lyrics
Congrats! Billy! Time was no wasted and the proof is out there. Glad to have you with us! I can hardly add more, because so many have said it all. Keep it up Billy!
CONGRATULATIONS DEAR BILL!!!
I am so late to the party. I am sorry dear one, as I have been off lost somewhere out there in HP land the past few days.
I am not one bit surprised at all. And I know it will not be too long before the next 100,000 views no doubt in my mind.
Party time!!! I know Bev gave you one big smooch on the lips for this great news.
I saw that our friend, Joseph, Lord De Cross, also has over 100,000 views as well. You are both such awesome people and hubbers no doubt!
In His Love Always, Faith Reaper
You, and other people like you, make this a strong and worthwhile community. I have already met some of your followers, and they are as wonderful as you. Thanks for being a part of my life!
Bill,
Two years and 100k views that's fantastic. Thanks for always making me see the bright part of the world through your writings.
Cheers
LOL..you're right, Bill - my 'following' increases AND decreases - depending on what i write! Politics and sex can be a bitch, eh? And - so can I!!
love yaxx
Billy, it is guys like you, (not forgetting the girls) who make HP the wonderful experience it is. You encourage, you explore, you support and above all you are an incredible good writer.
Those 23000 comments to which you have responded to in kind, shows how generous you are and how much you are held in high esteem. However, you do not need me to tell you this. Billybuc, you know you rock. My best to you and Bev :))
It is very difficult when one comes late to one of your hubs....there is a myriad of comments and they've said ALMOST all there is to say....WE are fortunate that you walked out on that principal and decided to write. You are our conscience, our Jiminy Cricket and at the same time you entertain us (your Google hubs are hilarious), you provide us with useful information on living simply....YOU are the reason you have over 100,000 views! Your followers have formed a group that has a life of its own and you know they'll follow you anywhere! Job very well done dear Bill and we all look forward to many more hubs, with many more comments, and many more reads! Love to Bev.
Voted up and interesting.
Billy,
I cannot say that I am surprised by the numbers that you share. You tap into that which is significant and heartfelt. That is why I keep reading for the most part. But as you said, you comment insightfully on other's work. With as many comments as you receive it is hard to imagine how you have time to comment on all of them. Just goes to show you why you have achieved success I can only wish more for you, my Friend, ps
Congratulations, you are a well liked person who writes about things people like to read.
You're awesome. Don't ever change.
(I know, you won't)
Love,
What's-her-name
Congrats to something well deserved! Becoming a writer isn't as easy as it sounds to most! It really is work and can only be made easier when the passion is there. :)
Hello you certainly know who to get a comment stream hopping. I know one thing, everywhere I go on hubpages you have all ready been there. That surely adds to your popularity. I see so many names that I know singing your praise here. Congratulation on the numbers and you successful transition, to writer.
That is super exciting Billy! Wow, and congratulations! What a wonderful goal to achieve. Call me impressed!
Well done Billy...Good on ya mate!! You are an inspiration to those of us who are passionate about writing and aspire to be considered writers, to keep going and press on...enjoy your day and the recognition that this milestone deserves...cheers
Congrats on the 1,00,000 views & 23,000 comments! You have an unique gift of engaging readers in your genuinely-written hubs. I considered myself fortunate to be the part of your massive fan-following. Believe it or not, right from the beginning when I commented on one of your hubs and later your letter to your mother hub, I knew that you would scale great heights and here you are at the height of success! Wishing you more accolades on HubPages! Way to go
Bill,
I am so impressed with your genuine kindness. I am both proud and in awe of the balance with which you live and write, as the two are interwoven. You show such support and appreciation to others, as you work to inspire us with your life philosophy.
Congratulations on this beautiful achievement. Hugs, Maria
These numbers serve to show that you are respected, well liked and a huge influence on so many people Bill. The care you have for humanity, for bev, for yourself is evident in every piece you write and people will always be attracted to your style.
Mark
Awesome Bill, and so happy for your accomplishments! You are right that number of comments is so important. You have been a writer (officially) longer than I and I look up to you on so many levels. Your compassion alone makes you a wonderful person. Take care xx
What a great hub, Billy. I love those numbers! Congratulations and the photo is sweet. Rated up/Awesome!
You are truly a superstar among stars, Bill. There are so many good writers here at Hubpages, but your numbers are incredible, as is the passion that does show through every hub you write. I agree that it couldn't happen to a nicer guy, but I also see that your superstar status is the result of some very hard work. You are a real asset to this community.
Bill - you are amazingly impressive! When i grow up i want to be just like YOU! lol..
(i kinda mean it...haha)
When i started on hub - i had 13 friends on facebook! Private does not begin to describe me - loner is closer to the truth..
i've been here 9 months now and feel as if i grow every single day, but, my 'views' are well under the 50,000 mark still..
they improve everyday tho - and that's all that counts for me - that people enjoy enough to come back - and maybe bring someone else along..lol..
my respect and heartfelt congratulations my friend - and here's to the next 100,000!
It couldn't have happened to a nicer guy!
I love Hubpages too. I often wonder what I did before joining this community of writers. Congratulations on your success. I love reading your articles, they inspire me in many ways. Thank you again..
Bill, congratulations! Over 100,000 views in less than a year is extremely impressive and the 23,000 comments is immeasurable. I have to admit, I'm a little intimidated that my response won't be in-depth enough! But I really did just want to say that you are a very supportive hubber, great writer, and an inspiration to all of us here on HP. And you you really do get what you give, so that is your key to success and why you are experiencing such a phenomenal response from others. Again, congrats and well-deserved!
Dear billybuc, I was going to post "great job" but....didn't want to disappoint :) Congratulations! How fantastic for you to be receiving this accolade as it is much deserved. You are a great part of Hub Pages and an inspiration to the entire community. Keep up the good work and may your keyboard never lose the "B" key! -K
Hi Bill, your numbers are huge! But, for some reason I am not surprised that so many people have read and commented. You write so well and about things we want to read. I kind of feel like you are a part of my life. Through your writing it "feels" like I have met you. I can affirm that you do answer each and every comment and so it feels like a real conversation. Congratulations on 100,000 views. It is quite an accomplishment for a writer.
Absolutely, Bill! In fact, I will make it a point to kick back on the beach this week in your honor. =)
Congratulations on passing yet another accolade milestone here on HP. You work hard at this, and I have no doubt that your success is assured if you simply stay the course.
Keep writing. Keep publishing. Keep building relationships. Keep branching out.
Aloha buddy!
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