10 Things I learned at Space City

Over my history of standing in front of people and teaching, I made it a point to share my personal reflections as I traveled through life and the places I go. I hope and pray that some or all of these are inspirational to you and may bring a smile to you.

Here they are, the 10 Things I Learned at Space City Comicon.

1. Whatever your plans, you can never rely on the weather.  I take for granted the pleasant weather. Checking weather is so far down the list of what I do every day. It's not that I am aloof, I just am prepared for whatever. I am not afraid of getting wet. 'A brave man, enjoys the feel of nature on his face, but a wise man knows when to get out of the rain.' When I left for Houston, it was shiny sun everywhere. Buck helped wrap the chair because there was a 60% chance of rain in that Texas town. By 6 p.m. when we arrived, the chance was 100%.

2. Smiles and pleasant small talk ease official micro-meetings. Convention officials have a difficult job. They have to make sure all the vendors are happy as well as the fans, and they are under a time crunch. Be nice to them.

3. Everyone is important. I make it a point to stop and talk to the security people and the sanitation workers. I chat with the ladies at the food cash registers. Take a few moments to bring a smile.

4. Boldness favors the ready. The torrential rains kept most people away Friday night. This allowed some of the 'Stars' to walk around in relative privacy to see the convention. As "Data" walked by I called out 'Brent!' He stopped and came over to chat. By the way, he doesn't like to shake hands.

5. Just the presence of a friend makes a huge difference. With Buck sitting quietly behind me, helped me so much that weekend. Even for me, I cannot quantify or put into words the feelings having my friend there with me. So, make it a point this week to go do something with a friend.

6. Be Bold and Say important words. As we left Saturday evening, Colin Baker was shuttled to the back door. I made it a point to thank him for coming and express my fanhood. He told me that I was very kind. He was not having a good day. Texas heat does that to the British. He had no problem shaking my hand.

7. Prepunctual helps you get great parking spots. Being prepunctual, (my new word) is the act of getting to any event early, really early. Each day, we have great parking spots close to the rear entrance.

8. Where did vendors learn to ignore potential customers? As I stretched my legs from time to time, I walked the floor to meet the other authors, and see what was on display. Most of those on the other side of the table, just ignored me as I passed. I do not understand that marketing tactic. I spoke to everyone who passed whether they acknowledged me or not. My voice gave out, but I still made the effort. Sometimes it paid off with a book sale, sometimes it just generated interest.

9. Some of the best places to eat are unremarkable on the outside. By far the best experience for Buck and me was place close to home, The Catahoula's Cafe in Jonesville. It is part of a gas station at the traffic light. I had passed by so many times, but Buck and I were hungry. We tried it. What a wonderful experience! It was a great way to begin our experience.

10. I am so humbled by the effort of my family and friends. My son-in-law, Hudson Smith stood all day statuing to generate interest in my booth. He had many photo's taken of him holding my huge sign made by Becky and Andy Tripp. My s-daughter, Leah Smith, made wonderful food for us and helped sell at the booth. Becky's sister, Amy also gave her time to help sell. Becky and Andy met friends who actually showed up in costume and helped generate traffic. And of course, I cannot express what a difference Buck made on the trip. Thank you all.