The story nobody wants.

Two weeks ago, I wrote a post about a story that nobody wants. I made a promise in that post that if it got rejected a fifth time, I'd post it here. This week, I'll make good on that promise. That first publishing credit will have to come from something else.

Ari Shaffir, the stand-up comedian, had his first special air on Comedy Central a few months back. I came to appreciate Shaffir and his story by listening to the Joe Rogan Experience. Shaffir's story is inspirational for anyone struggling through any creative endeavor. The title of his special is "Paid Regular." A milestone for anyone working the LA comedy scene is to go from being an open micer to a paid regular at the Comedy Store, which Shaffir did before he went on to film the special.

I think the writer's struggle is similar. Right now, I'm in my open mic stage, writing for anyone who's interested -- but mostly writing for myself. It's not about the money. Any published author will tell you the money's not that good. It's about being read. Being a published author is a lot like being a paid regular. It means you're a professional with the platform. Your work is out there. You've created something people can connect to. And that's my ultimate goal.

Check back tomorrow for the story.