Rejection…Where Is Thy Sting?

I recently submitted a short piece of writing for publication, and was just advised that it was not going to be used. Rejected!!! This was the first time I had ever submitted in that format, and had had such high hopes! My first reaction? I was, to say the least, disappointed. Then, when I read the response again, I realized something: most of the comments made were actually complimentary, and the criticisms were useful (and valid, it must be said!). While this piece may not fit for that publication, they have left me the hope that a future piece could be accepted. They have also given me some useful comments and suggestions that will help me improve my writing in general. Even though this was a disappointment, I can’t regard it as a set back. It is actually a huge step forward. I know that all rejection notifications are not as kind as this one was. However, this experience has taught me that even rejection can be a positive thing. That piece? I am going to rework it, using the comments made, and submit it in its improved state. Maybe other publications will be interested. Even if no one publishes it, I know it will be better than I had thought it was. All in all, even though I was disappointed, this experience has left me with nothing but positive feelings, and hope for my future efforts.