In my ‘write’ mind

Not everyone can quite understand the purpose of writing, blogging or journaling. Some people are not comfortable with putting personal business in a blog where others may follow. My niece Barb Higgins started a podcast (A Thousand Tiny Steps) a few years ago and eventually wrote an incredible book titled “Motherland”. Of course when Barb first started the podcast and the FB lives, I watched and listened and still do. Many of the things she has shared have brought up an array of feelings for me such as happiness, sadness, anxiety, irritation, love, anger, amusement, joy, disappointment, empathy, admiration, confusion, nostalgia, surprise and many other feelings.

Barb’s sharing has inspired me and given me the confidence to put my feelings on paper or in this case, on line. Some things I am not comfortable sharing yet and may never be. I will probably never do a vlog or podcast because the thought of public speaking causes me an anxiety I don’t usually have. I have always enjoyed writing since as far back as I can remember. I find it therapeutic, it works for me. Writing is about as far as my comfort zone stretches at this point in my life. That could change tomorrow or years from now, but I highly doubt it.

 I know Barb has shared things that some people have probably gasped at. I know she has been judged harshly by some of her readers and listeners and she has helped many others. I am not as brave as her when it comes to writing some of the raw and very personal things she has shared, but I can understand how therapeutic it probably is for her. I too have been judged by some, that doesn’t bother me a whole lot because everyone has a right to have an opinion and just because putting some personal information out there makes some people uncomfortable, doesn’t mean it’s not right for me. Those people can just stop reading if my sharing bothers them. 

I have been told by some of my readers that I encourage and inspire them. I use this format for my own self gain, it puts me in a better place mentally. The other reason I write is because, like Barb, I want to help and inspire others. I have a friend who continually encourages me. She has said my writing, my faith, my wisdom and my willingness to share, has helped her in ways she can’t explain. That alone makes me feel good about writing. Even if I started blogging and continue to for myself, knowing I’ve helped even just one person, inspires me to continue. Another friend texted me after reading my recent blog titled “Perfectly imperfect’, she too has a chronically ill husband who is sometimes difficult and doesn’t show appreciation often. She works two jobs as he is not able to work. She is also an LNA, we have many things in common. She said that blog post was like reading her own feelings. I believe it helped her to feel less isolated. She even shared my blog on her FB page so that others might understand what she is feeling and going through. Today, a coworker also read that particular blog post and stopped me in the hall to hug me and express her admiration for me as well as her offers to help in any way she can and another asked me to send her my latest because she enjoys reading them. I hope continuing to share parts of my personal journey can offer support or inspiration to others who are dealing with similar situations. Sharing the blessings in my life, I hope to help others see the positives in theirs, no matter what the situation. 

If you are reading, enjoying, or relating to my blogs, write an occasional comment, ask a question, or share your stories, I’d love the feedback.

“Write like it matters, and it will.” -Libba Bray