David Goodsell wrote:

>
> I have received a number of letters from people that read my books, many like
> the one Lynn shared. I believe that every one deserves a reply -- there
> are far too few of us with a true passion for illustration. I do not
> always give a lengthy reply -- just pointing to GNSI and this server,
> as others have suggested, is enough to show that we are a community and
> that we welcome new members.


This reminds me of when I was back in high school doing a research
report on Isaac Asimov - back in the days when there was just snail
mail. I wrote to him with some questions, asking for some personal
information, etc. I received a hand-addressed, hand-written note (and
some printed information) a little over a week later... with his apology
about having taken so long to respond, but his family had just broken up
and my letter had been forwarded to him.

>
> Letters such as this help us forget editors and deadlines, and cats that
> walk across paintings, and focus again on what we love. I, personally,
> cannot ignore them.

Well said. I hope one day - or year - to accomplish something deserving
of a few of those kinds of letters, myself!

BTW, David, I was somehow moved to click on your website link - don't
know why I never did that before - WOW! Three thoughts come to mind: 1)
Will YOU be the next Isaac Asimov?  2) When I buy your books will you
autograph them? 3) And did you ever consider a line of wrapping papers
inspired by your intracellular paintings? I'd snatch 'em up in a second!

Cheers!

Cindy