Really? Do we really need one more blog ranting about Fifty Shades of Grey? I'll answer that for you . . . nope. We don't. From what I've been reading in the blogosphere, it's pretty much all been said, ranging from the rank filthiness of sexual exploitation to the capitalistic greed mongers bringing about the destruction of our society as a whole.

Not that I think the glamorization of erotic bondage isn't worth pulling out a shotgun and blasting holes in it, but enough's enough. The horse is dead, folks. Time to move on.

Because, you see, there is actually something a writer can learn from Fifty Shades.

Yep. I said it. I really did. Out loud and in black and white. Before you go all atomic-spastic-bomb on me, just hold on a second.

Let's look at a few facts:
- Worldwide the book has sold one hundred MILLION copies.
- At the peak of its popularity, one book was being sold every second somewhere
   in the world.
- It's the fastest selling book series in the history of publisher Random House.

So yeah, as a Bible believing Christian I heartily take issue with the content of the book, but as a writer, there's got to be some takeaway value from the crazy sales numbers this title is racking up. What is it? What's the lesson to be learned?

The author, E.L. James, never gave up. From an early age she dreamt of writing, though never went on to complete any formal education in that realm. As a middle-aged, married woman with two kids, she started writing fan fiction, then eventually went on to self-publish the first volume in the Shades trilogy as an e-book.

My point is that if you have a passion, a dream, a burning desire to do something, then get your rear off the couch and do it. It doesn't matter if you're old or don't have a college degree. Quit whining and shut up about what your going to do some day. Today is the day. Take one step forward toward reaching your dream. Just one. You can do it, you little champion.

Who knows . . . maybe you'll be the next trendy phenomenon to hit the blogosphere.