I think it is time that I start my own blog. I’ve been slowly being lured into the blog world, at first swearing to myself that I would never have the time or interest to even read blogs. I don’t really have the time, but I keep doing it anyway.
Occasionally I think about writing one, but I have been reluctant. I don’t know how to start. Do I just start writing one day about what is going on in my life, or things on my mind, what is going on in the world, that I have noticed? For every story in my life, it seems there is some complex history behind it and I don’t know how to just start in the moment.
If I were to write an entry about a walk in the woods with a fellow church-goer, in order for the story to have context, I would feel the need to elaborate, “the man who used to stalk me when I was a stripper but now whom I am trying to be friendly with since he goes to my church and we both share an interest in Non-Violent Communication”. Or if I want to write about my grandma sharing a room with my 14 year old son, it seems necessary to specify that not only was there a pipe burst, which caused her whole basement apartment to flood, floor to ceiling, but she then developed shingles and post-herpatic neuralgia, requiring constant medical care and now has Alzheimer’s and we are still trying to remodel her basement bedroom, but then there was another flood caused by the sump pump and also she is an OCD hoarder, so it is about impossible to clean or organize anything, even when we do get it remodeled.
I think my readers would (or already have) stop reading due to boredom and/or confusion. So I will need some practice in summarizing, and choosing which (if any) pieces of information are actually relevant.
I am also wondering about the purpose of writing a blog. Is it meant to be cathartic for the writer, or entertaining for the reader? I suppose in the best instances it would be both. My goal, would be that it be an outlet for me to express myself, but I also maybe hope to make connections with people who may read and offer input or differing viewpoints. So I think I will give this a try, and see where it leads, if I enjoy it or not, if anyone actually reads it or not (does that really matter?).
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11 comments:
I struggle with the same thing. Before I started blogging it seemed things would happen all the time and I'd think, "Gosh, I wish I had a blog to write about x" Now that I have one, it can be a struggle.
BTW, I think you did a great job summarizing all the above situations, plus, I know you area great writer, so it will be fine.
I love you. You are awesome.
Laura
I have the same problem of worrying about what the right amount of back story is. I have abandoned several entries after finding that the back story was too complicated, but don't let that stop you. Some days it is easier than others.
One word: THERAPY. That is precisely why I write anyway, and while my particular blog has a specific theme, most do not. I think it is easiest to just write what is in your heart, and if it comes out entertaining to the rest of blogland, well then so be it, if not...who cares...ultimately it is for you, and no one else. I have been writing for around 3 years, and I had the same issues when I started, but from the looks if things here, you have a great start...you are very articulate.
Keep writing and good luck!
Cheers-
Jadedgirl
Wow. I amazed to have 5 comments. Thanks all for the encouragement. I am getting more excited about this. Teresa, I was hoping to look at your blog, but couldn't access your profile. Is your blog publicly available?
Sorry about that, I am not sure why my profile wont come up and for some reason it wont let me access it either...must be a glitch. Anyhoo- my blog address is: http://www.jadedgirl.blogpeoria.com
Again...my bad.
Enjoy reading!
-Jaded
I too started blogging recently. To me, the hardest part is finding things interesting enough to write about. I don't like writing about myself and my life (I don't know why not, since I'm usually interested in reading about others' lives), so I'm constantly looking elsewhere for material. Ultimately, I most enjoy the actual process of writing something somewhat intelligible.
Looks like you're off to a great start! Have fun.
Kevin
I have been at it for a short while. Sometimes the posts are for me, and sometimes they are for the "cosmos". It is good go get it out and to process what is going on in your head and your heart! Great start and your blog will certainly be in my favorites. Thanks for sharing.
Congrats on the new blog! Take it however you want it, and please don't get bogged down with the stats (how many people are reading, etc.). The stress just isn't worth it. :) GOOD LUCK!
Don't worry; I don't even know how to check the "stats" yet. My goal is to learn how to post some pictures, maybe an "about me" type summary, things like that.
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