Novelist’s Nightmare? Or Lesson in Graciousness?

Many years ago I was invited to a book festival in Ft. Lauderdale. Lots of authors participated in a host of programs, and later there was a signing at which each of us sat at a long table and readers lined up in front of us to buy our books and have us sign them. I was seated next to the late actress, Carol Channing, who was there to promote her memoir. As you can imagine, there was a huge line waiting for her to sign and no line waiting for me. She must have seen how distressed I was because she leaned over, patted my hand and said, “It doesn’t mean anything, dear. It’s just because I’m a celebrity.” Not sure this cheered me up much, but it was a truly kind gesture on her part, and the memory has stayed with me for more than 30 years.