Every week, another one of these articles posts on my Facebook and Twitter accounts, and I am guessing some of y'all wonder, why? Why are you writing about random parts of life or thoughts that crossed your mind of a morning cup of coffee?

I know at least some of you wonder that, because some people have very specifically asked me questions right along those lines.

Because that is a great question (and I really am appreciative when people ask) and also because I am mega-swamped, as well all are, and I have got to get some thoughts on this page, I have decided to dive into the answer to this question. Here it goes:

1. My friend asked me.

Yep, that's right! All it took to get on the Odyssey team was knowing a sweet friend of mine who was already on the team, and being asked to submit an application to become a contributor as well! So easy, and one of the best decisions I have made in the last half year.

2. I sucked at writing.

For real y'all, this was like the very first thing that came to mind when I got asked to write for the Odyssey. And rather than letting that turn me away, it pushed me so strongly towards saying yes. I knew my writing skills were lacking, and I wanted that to be over! This opportunity has pushed me to be better, try harder, and humble myself to asking for help when I need it. Something about knowing all your people are going to read it makes you want to get better at writing.

3. It looks killer on resumes.

Who out there has ever stressed about not having enough to show for yourself (outside of school courses) on that resume on Career Day? I know I have been in those shoes before, and having something like this writing opportunity to show that I have interests outside of the classroom shows a lot about to a potential employee. Employers want to hire people who have varied skills and hobbies, and this writing position says just that!

4. I have opinions.

And so do you. Instead of keeping those opinions to myself, I decided to be bold and let them be heard. I cannot even express how many awesome conversations I have gotten to be a part of as a result.

5. It takes almost no time.

In a schedule that is already packed and could bust at any second, I didn't need to add anything time consuming to the lot. This extra curricular is engaging but also not a huge time commitment... just what I wanted.

6. God is GOOD.

People who know me, know that I am not one to have a nicely packaged and collected thought... ever. This chance to write has slowed down my thoughts, if only for the amount of time I am in front of this keyboard. Heaven knows that blessing is not something I conjured up for myself, so I praise the Lord regularly for letting words flow forth on these pages.

7. Words have power.

I believe this to be so very true, and I want to be able to say that I have used mine wisely. Getting to share about perspectives and faith and life and (hopefully) encouraging people as a result makes me teary in the eyes. Gosh y'all, so much excitement to be had for life-giving words in this day and age.

So yeah, those are the 7 simple reasons why I share these articles each week. My writing is nothing extraordinary, but it is fun and gives me joy to be a part of, which are reasons enough to be a part of this awesome Odyssey team.

If anyone has read this and thinks they want to join the team as well, please please get in contact in any way (message, email, comment, text) and I will give you as many more details as your heart desires.

Thanks for reading, and for supporting me while I continue to share my thoughts through this paper. It truly means the world, friends!