The reality of my need to write was recognized many years ago. Most times when the spoken word fails me, the written word will take over. I have stacks of journals and folders filled with 'writings' and have often wondered why I've kept them all these years. There is a reason I now realize - they are to be most useful in writing my memoir. The problem will be to make the time and have the patience to go through them all. I know, though, once I start, it will be done in one sitting so there must be no distractions and no place I have to go for at least 24 hours.
I am reminded of something I just read in Natalie Goldberg's, Writing Down the Bones - "When I reread my notebooks it never fails to remind me that I have a life, that I felt and thought and saw. It is very reaffirming, because sometimes writing seems useless and a waste of time. Suddenly you are sitting in your chair fascinated by your own mundane life...........we awaken ourselves to the life we are living." I guess that's my feeling also. Yay - I have something in common with NG, an awesome writer and teacher! So, who am I trying to impress? I am not in her league, her circle of literary friends - I do not have an agent or have the phone number of a New York publishing house - but one thing I do have - I have an extraordinary group of people in 'my circle' who support me, listen to my whining and so important, are always encouraging of my sometimes lame efforts at being a writer. {Those last words are from 'my inner censor' who just has to speak out at times - I've given him a little space here, if for no other reason than to acknowledge I know he's there and I recognize him for who he his - and then I move on secure in the knowledge of who I am and that what I write may not be important or interesting to everyone, but it's not meant to be. One person may be encouraged or lifted up, and if it is just that one, it may make a world of difference in their life.
I have so much I want to share with others - if I can touch them, those whom I will never meet personally, by connecting through the written word, perhaps my story will help to write theirs. It's by our life experiences that we learn our own truths and values. One important truth I have learned is that we are created uniquely with our own special gifts and talents to bestow in whatever way that might be of help or service to our fellow man. Now that I know this truth, I feel compelled to "pass it forward" and to believe at the end of the day it will made a difference.
Thanks for letting me share my thoughts with you - I welcome you to share yours with me.
