Working

​A few days ago, I decided to listen to the advice given by my friend’s friend to replace paid work (which I yearned for) with projects, so I wrote to three former clients. I had enjoyed working with them on their book because it was really good and they were great people. They had always been ready to discuss any question I might have, and I had many. So, I asked them if they had found ways to write together remotely and had a project in the works. Then, I offered my help as a translator or a writing coach, and added that to avoid seizures caused by stress, I wanted to make sure they didn’t have tight deadlines and I wouldn’t charge them anything. That way, it wouldn’t be a job that would require commitment from me (actually, I always commit to doing a job, whether it’s paid or it isn’t).
I got a reply from them right away. They said that the news about my recovery had made them glad; that they had been working on a paper and would be interested in having it translated to have it ready sometime in the future, so there were no tight deadlines; and that they loved me, admired me, and were grateful for my help.
I was delighted by their reaction, as well as by their reply. Not only were they working together, but they had a project in which I could participate that had no deadlines. Now I had work, and friends rather than clients to work with. Translating is a lonely task. That’s why working with someone is more stimulating than working on one’s own.
I had found a project. I had found an activity that gave me pleasure and joy. I was on my way.