One year on and this is where it began.
In his memoir, “On Writing” Stephen King includes two quotes before the foreword.
Honesty’s the best policy. – Miguel de Cervantes
Liars prosper. – Anonymous
So how does this apply to the 90s phenomenon which began as web log and is now globally embraced as blogging? I wanted to better understand the concept of blogging so started with a definition – “a person who regularly writes material for a blog”. Ok, so that summary was not particularly insightful so I tapped deeper – “a personal chronological log of thoughts published on a web page.” I will confess (the honesty part) that I had guessed it might have been a play on the words ‘bragging’ and ‘logging’. Personal and published – the two Ps, now that makes sense, after all isn’t the intent of all writing to be read, just as we speak to be heard and with both, understood?
New to the concept of blogging because in the late 90s and the decade that followed I was navigating the mothering of three wonders, trying to hold on to a teaching career in the midst of the touch and go life of a ‘military spouse’ which other partners of service personnel and those who must up stakes regularly for employment will understand. Now that the life bag of excuses is depleted, the old but new to me arena of blogging is sitting right in front of me – literally.
Writing that is compelling and raw with honesty is my blogging choice. My choice to read, my decision to write. I do though agree with ‘Anonymous’ in every facet of life, liars do indeed prosper – I am sure we can all dredge up examples as such but in this new domain of blogging, honesty is the best policy, the only point really.
What is my blogging goal? I do not think that I am very good at goal setting – I tend to rush at things but I am a pretty darn good finisher. If the blogging is to have a purpose other than to write, to express – it is about gathering and sharing thoughts, ideas, joys, memories, hurts, disappointments, hopes and providing legacy.
So here I begin, blogging on about everything with Miguel’s words ringing in my ears.
How can that possibly be one year ago? My goal to start was achieved. Honesty in my words, achieved. Baby steps – still in progress as my posts reach a small audience as I had intended, small yes – but authentic. Legacy – well underway.
Love of writing – ever present. Writing for me – is a must!
C Writes 