Writing makes a person vulnerable. It opens you to public criticism, to ridicule, to rejection. But it also opens conversation and thought. It stirs minds, and touches hearts. It brings us into contact with our souls. So how can it possibly be a waste of time, an idle act, a mistake, a betrayal of truth? Who can possibly tell us not to do it?
Joan Chittister
I have two outlets for writing, my journal and this blog. Reflecting back, I believe journaling was a way to ask questions in hopes of understanding my confused life. I journal about my deepest fears, secrets, dreams, my spiritual journey, ask questions and use it as a way to put into words how I see and experience this beautiful world. Over time my journals have evolved into more of a letter/prayer addressed to myself, the Divine within me and my children. It has become an enjoyable daily habit.
I also use this blog as a place of vulnerable writing. It is here I express my feelings and thoughts, use it as conversation to keep in touch with those who read my blog, and also attempt to put into words how I experience this world. I place myself in a vulnerable place when I post in both my words and images. I enjoy the risk.
But, I also hear those voices telling me I can’t write, I have nothing important to say and only certain gifted people are writers. But, the truth is no one can tell us we are not writers. Today, I can say I’m grateful for these outlets on writing and the adventure of finding questions that lead to more questions. And so I agree with Chittister, writing makes a person vulnerable.
8 Comments
Faye White
Write! Because your soul needs it! Yes, it might make you vulnerable but not writing would be more detrimental to your spirit (imo).
Monte Stevens
I like your opinion and I’m learning to listen to those who offer the positive voice. One of the kool things about having a blog is that those who don’t like my images or words don’t have to come here. And, I must say you have been instrumental in encouraging me to write several years ago. I thank you for that encouragement. So, I plan on it.
Bonnie Moore
I believe vulnerability is what leads us to our authentic self. And as my father would often say, you are the “real deal,” Monte! While I do enjoy your camera work, it is your authentic self that draws me to your thought- provoking musings. Right? Write!
Monte Stevens
Thank you for the kind words, my friend! One thing I failed to mention abouting writing is the lessons it teaches. There is a skill in writing content for a blog and the more we write the more we are able to get it right. But what really comes from the lessons of writing is the conversations which invites the thoughts, ideas and experiences in your life and a safe platform for you to share them. Any creative person needs to hear words that support and nurture them, so I thank you and all who visit and leave comments. I’m in a place where I’m more comfortable to be vulnerable, and be my authentic self, in sharing this spiritual journey of mine. I may lose a couple million readers because of that but three million new readers may read this blog and join in on this conversation. I’m dreaming now….
Mark
I’ve said it before and say it again, but I have admired your dedication to writing. For me it’s been more difficult lately, often feeling like a leaf that’s fallen in a stream and drifting away. This has always been an enjoyable place to stop by for a bit, like a coffee shop. 🙂
Monte Stevens
Thank you for the kind words, Mark. One thing I like about your posts is they are well thought out and well done. So many of your posts are informative for me. There times when my journal will have only one or two lines for the day. Words are hard to come by and I’m usually distracted in my thoughts. However, I always make time to sit with it, staring at blank pages. Then a couple days later words appear. I am grateful you stop by and leave comments. Heck, I’m grateful you stop by and don’t leave a comment.
Mark
Sometimes I just sip my coffee in the corner quietly, but I do visit. 🙂
Monte Stevens
I am of the same mind. There are blogs I visit just to sit and contemplate their images and/or words, with a latte of course. Thanks again for visiting! 🙂