There seems to be a flood of posts on self-publishing vs. traditional publishing vs. hybrid, e-publishing vs. print, and us vs. them.

First off, I do not intentionally search out these posts—I’m too busy working—friends have steered me toward them, thinking they would interest me.  They are all interesting, to a point.

I refuse to get riled by them, because they are all opinion pieces. Must I remind you of the old saying, opinions are like a-holes, everyone has one, and they all stink? Don’t bother telling me in the comments, on Facebook, twitter, or by email that mine do too. I’m well aware there are others who find the scent less than pleasing.

I’m not saying my opinions don’t stink, to someone, somewhere. What I am saying is that everyone has the right to choose whatever scent they please. You also have the right to step away from headache inducing perfume purveyors. There is no law that says you have to respond.

Online it’s easy, close the window, shut down the computer, whatever it takes. If you’re having a discussion face to face, it’s a little harder. I would hope those in the discussion would be adult enough to conduct it in a reasonable, respectful manner, but that’s not always the case. There’s a statement I use to avoid being sucked into arguments with people who don’t understand the concept of a discussion. (It’s also appropriate when you had a meaningful discussion with someone who understands the concept. Don’t you love multi-taskers?) I’m glad we can agree to disagree. It works. For the most part. There will always be those who will chase you down and spray whatever they’re pushing all over you.

Do not think you have the right to spritz others just because you can. I don’t care if you think you’re pushing Chanel, I don’t want it sprayed all over me.  I already have my own N°5 on.  Just as we all have the right to our opinions; no one has the right to push their opinion on others.

That said, I’m on the path I’ve chosen. I know the risks involved. I know it takes a small army to back me up, and the resourcefulness to do it right. I’m not fooled by all the online chatter, or hucksters promising I’ll make millions. I do what I do, because I enjoy it, even the bumps in the road. There have been many, and every problem has been of my making in some way, shape or form. There is no blaming someone else, when I should have triple checked. All of it is up to me. It’s my path and for now I’ll continue the journey.

It may not be the right path for you, and that’s fine. You need to do what’s best for you.