Why Do I Write?
I was the child that stared hopelessly out of the window into the distance of endless possibilities and unknown journeys. I have always been the dreamer. I haven’t always understood the desire to write or the importance of it. All I’ve really known is that it is there-- and no word, no image, and not a single bit of desire leaves until it is written of. I don’t always write with ease, no, it’s not always so simple. It’s not always so easy to reveal what is in my soul exactly the way it is. No emotion can be left out or left behind. Not everyone can relate to what I write, and the truth is, I am not at all the greatest at what I do. However, I write because I have to write. I write because it’s who I am and who I will always be. I have always written about life, and I have always felt the need to be inspirational. Even in my darkest hours, there was always this need to tell about the little light. That need still exists, and I believe it is something that will always exist. I thank God for poetry, because not only has it been my journey, but it has been—in many ways—my peaceful sea of serenity.
To my fellow writers and poets:
We have a tendency to become completely wrapped up in rules, and guidelines, and tips for writing. Sure, all of that plays a part, and should be taken into consideration. However, true writing begins in your soul. A true writer, a true poet is one who can and will affectively speak through silent words. Before you attempt to understand and follow rules, tips, and guidelines someone else made for you—you must first understand yourself. Understand yourself so that you may hold on to the reason why it is YOU write, for within that personal reason dwells purpose and passion. Never leave yourself behind while on a quest for seeking approval, because the truth is you will not be able to please everyone. You will not always be praised for your words. Criticism whether contructive or not, is hard to take, but even so...your words should still call out to you, and you should not become so discouraged that you silence them, nor should you convince yourself that you are shielded from receiving criticism. You should be confident, but beware of becoming arrogant. Realize your purpose and hold on to the passion that comes with it. It is important to realize this because writing is truly a journey, and when you begin to face the toughest obstacles, you have to go back to why it is you write in the first place.
I wish you the best.
T.S. Wilkins
"Far away there in the sunshine are my highest aspirations. I may not reach them but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in them, and try to follow them."
~Louisa May Alcott~
"Hold fast to dreams
For if dreams die
Life is a broken-winged bird
That cannot fly.
Hold fast to dreams
For when dreams go
Life is a barren field
Frozen with snow."
-Langston Hughes-
"Certain things catch your eye,
But pursue only those
that capture your heart."
Native American Saying
