Sometimes, when sharing our creations with the world, we hit a wall. A polite but firm “no” might feel like a door slamming shut. But what if that “no” isn’t a dead end, but a detour, a sign that another route is waiting?
Recently, I experienced this first-hand. I submitted my comic to the NHS, hoping it might brighten cancer patients’ days in their wards. The answer came back: no, they couldn’t distribute it in the wards. It wasn’t a negative; my work was crap, no! The team loved my comic! They were genuinely enthusiastic, so much so that they decided to keep a copy for their staff room, sharing laughs and smiles. My comic found a home with people who care for others every day, and to me, that’s a win-win.
The NHS team will keep enjoying the comic, and who knows? Maybe they’ll share it with friends, family, or colleagues. The ripple effect is real. Even though my comic won’t be on the ward shelves for now, it’s still reaching hearts.
Why was it a “no” for the wards? Simple: my comic is written only in English, and the NHS, being a multicultural environment, is careful not to exclude anyone. Plus, if they did house it, it would increase their chances of looking racist, and I wouldn’t want to inflict that pain upon any human being. They want every patient, regardless of language, to feel included, and I deeply respect that value. It’s not about rejection; it’s about fairness and sensitivity. Of course, these decisions are wrapped in red tape, government rules and regulations, and sometimes, those rules create challenges. But they also show how much thought goes into caring for everyone.
Here’s what I’ve learned: a closed door isn’t always a failure. Sometimes, it’s just guiding you toward a different audience or a new direction. The love my comic received from the NHS team proves that what really matters is the people, the connections we make, the moments we share, and the joy we spread.
So, if you hear “no” on your journey, remember: it doesn’t mean “no way.” It just means you’re being redirected. And sometimes, the new path is even more meaningful than the one you first imagined. Keep going. The right audience, the right moment, and the right impact are out there waiting for you.
I have other options: other charities, hospices, health care providers, and countries less bound by government red tape and more independent in their thinking and doing.
It will come back round; these things always do. I had international best-selling books in Canada and America before I rescued a failing charity at the end of my street ….It all comes back around, and so will this!
Have a great weekend,
Much Love
Kate x
P.S.) I emailed her back this morning and said that if I had the words translated, or signposted to different translations on my blog, would this count as covering the policy?…. Nope! I do not ever ever give up that easily, never have, and never will.. Ha ha!
( Pronouns: She/Her)
DISCLAIMER: These blog posts are in no way shape or form to provide any professional advice and are for entertainment purposes only. The author/s takes no personal responsibility or liability for any person/s who chooses to use the methods in their own lives.
