As writers, we often think of the impact that our work has on our audience. Without question, we would say that's the very point of it all. In fact, many who truly love writing, like myself, experience pure joy from the thought of our words inspiring others and touching their core. So my next statement may seem selfish and uncommon, but I challenge you to give it some in depth thought.
The next time you write, write to heal. It does not matter what you are writing, whether for a magazine, a blog, a children's book, I challenge you to write to heal. What do I mean by this, our gift of writing should not only bring inspiration, motivation, laughter, self-reflection or a moment of escape for your audience but also for you as the writer. For women especially, every opportunity that can provide release and healing from life's journey is essential.
The first step is to choose a topic that resonates from deep within; something in your life that requires closure. Next, be ready to share the details, even the intimate ones, then out pour your words, one after another. As you write, let each sentence free you from the hurt, pains, disappointments, expectations and loss that has weighed on you. Of course, depending on the audience there will be some tailoring to be considered, however intentionally choose words to insert in the reading that speaks to your feelings during this time in your life.
The irony is that although you are writing to heal for yourself, you will accomplish the task of paying it forward. Someone else either presently going through or will go through a similar adversity and will need to read your story to help them get through their storm. Sharing your most life changing moment will deliver a message of hope to their heart. As the famous late Maya Angelou, author, poet and activist, stated, “People may forget what you said, people may forget what you did but they will always remember how you made them feel." So the next time you have an opportunity, write to heal for you and the stranger who will learn from you.
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Would you like to participate in Friday "Speak Out!"? Email your short posts (under 500 words) about women and writing to: marcia[at]wow-womenonwriting[dot]com for consideration. We look forward to hearing from you!
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Michelle--I wholeheartedly agree with you. Writing is healing for the writer AND the reader.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with your healing and your writing.
Thanks for your comments and taking the time to read. I am glad you share the same sentiments and hope you continue to enjoy future post.
DeleteGreat post, Michelle. :) One of my favorite quotes is by Robert Frost: “No tears in the writer, no tears in the reader. No surprise in the writer, no surprise in the reader.” I think when we write to heal and let ourselves be vulnerable, then we are inviting readers to heal right along with us.
ReplyDeleteI'm currently writing a memoir and it's an emotional, long process of writing and healing, but it'll be worth it in the end. I hope you do write your own book, too. You can do it! :)
Thank you so much for taking the time to read and comment. I hope we all get to experience the healing we need. I congratulate you on the courage to be vulnerable for yourself and others. Best of luck on your memoir, I'm sure it will be worth it!!
DeleteAbsolutely excellent post Michelle. I commend you for charging others to take the mindset of writing to heal and offer transparency to the readers. It’s not an easy thing to do, but, both reader a writer will be all the better for it!
ReplyDeleteThanks again.
Thank you so much. Your comments is much appreciated. It surely is a win -win for the reader and writer!
ReplyDeleteThis is so good
ReplyDeleteThank you so much ! I am glad you enjoyed reading.
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