What Writing at Associated Content Has Done for Me

Over the years I have often wondered what it would be like to keep a diary. I did not dare do so as a young girl, because there was little privacy in our house. Anything I would have honestly written would have been met with angered scrutiny. I carried some of those same fears into adulthood, fearful that my thoughts and feelings would fall into the hands of someone who could embarrass me or hold me hostage. I did not feel that I could express myself honestly or genuinely.

For the past thirteen months, I started to write more often and submit at Associated Content. I have begun to feel free enough to share my "voice"--to give the reader my opinion. I have been willing to share some of my deepest, darkest secrets or the pain I have felt surrounding many issues: Family, cancer, being a veteran, and depression. Some has come in the form of articles; some in poetry (not all good, by my standards). Yet, I have posted them all.

Though I certainly am not someone of few words, I have not always been honest with others in the way that I feel. I pick and choose my words carefully, constantly vigilant about how offensive I might be. Even so, I have been accused of being "too outspoken and bold."

Writing at AC has given me the chance to test new waters. Writing has given me the opportunity to express how I view the world. Sometimes I want to share. At times I want to shock. Other times I simply want to vent. And there are the times when I am bold and outspoken. It has also given me a chance to heal.

Writing has also taught me several things about myself.

I have learned that I am not a journalist. I am a storyteller. Even when asked to give a review, it must come with the story of history or some other tidbit that will encourage the reader to think.

Nor do I particularly like the confines placed on me by certain types of poetic convention. Haiku, as a form, has allowed (forced) me to say what I need to say in seventeen short syllables. Rather than viewing haiku as confining, it has given me an attempt to be succinct and purposeful in my imagery.

I have been surprised at some of the feedback I have received, not only from readers, but other writers. I was shocked several times-awarded a "Best New Content Producer" honor and being targeted for several upfront articles over the year. It has taught me that I do have some things that others want to hear or read.

One of my goals for 2010 is to write something ever single day. Though I have fallen short of that already, I have prepped myself for more writing successes. Not only will I continue to develop articles at AC, I have decided to take the plunge of writing a blog in order to regularly journal about what is on my mind and heart at the moment. I have titled it, "Living Beyond Life's Challenges," and will explore whatever challenges life throws out on the path to discovery.

Thank you, Associated Content and my readers, for encouraging me to write. Thank you for allowing me a voice and for hearing me. Thank you for the feedback you have shared. And thank you for your continued support of me.