Today, I Consider Myself a Writer

          I have always admired writers.  Their ability to provide structure to the thoughts that chaotically zip through their heads fascinates me.  This ability is enhanced greatly by the courage they possess to present these thoughts to strangers, and, even more so, friends.  While I enjoy a good film, concert, and even the occasional painting or play, I have found that I connect more intimately with the author than the director, musician, or artist.  Writing, in my perception, offers readers an accessibility that transcends the physical nature of these other mediums.  Using merely text, writers manage to convey the simplest of thoughts to their readers, while simultaneously offering insights into the most elusive depths of their cognizance.  Further, while deeply personal, a great read can be strangely conversational in the way it allows writers to interact with their readers.  Good writing stimulates the imagination of the casual observer in a way that rivals the most beautiful of paintings and the most impressive of performances.

          With this being said, I have always neglected my own creative side for one reason or another.  I hope to use this blog to develop the skills and demonstrate the growth that I know will be necessary to determine the role of writing in my future.  As I progress, I intend to explore various styles and mediums.  Readers can expect posts attempting various forms of writing, including anything from well researched non-fiction to raw, unstructured philosophical ramblings and creative writing.

          Armed with a pen, paper, and laptop, I intend to find out what I'm really made of.  This is my way to determine whether my experience in life to this point has been great enough to produce written works of substance with the capacity to stimulate the thoughts of others.  Whether this experiment in writing becomes just one more failed hobby or opens the door to a rewarding profession, I can only speculate.  Today, however, is the first day I consider myself a writer; and if I can provide you an ounce of the enjoyment and inspiration that other writers have provided me, I will consider myself a successful one at that.