The act of writing can be an effortless task for most but for others it can be a nightmare causing stress sweat and procrastination. The combination of letters that turn into words, which turn into sentences can be overwhelming. Speaking is another story because there is a certain formality that comes with writing that can result in anxious feelings for people such as myself. The artistry in placing your words onto a paper or keyboard has a power to transform you. A transformation I always remembered to be terrifying. But it all really started when I was a meer freshman full of expectations.
During my first year of high school, whenever I had to write, I was excited to put my thoughts onto paper and showcase my enthusiasm to write any essay. As I recall, one english assignment in particular grabbed my attention, I had to compare a character from Oedipus and a modern celebrity. I was energized to write what I thought was going to be a great essay. It contained all the requirements and made me proud. I was sure I would get an amazing grade, but in hindsight, my expectation was too high and a hard goal to reach.
Despite my eagerness, when the paper was graded and the feedback was given I was disappointed with the result. Generally, when one receives an unfavorable grade it can encourage and allow the student to grow thus becoming a better writer. That was not the case. I was self-conscience on my writing skills and seconded guessed myself after the harsh comments. I was confused as to why a gloomy grade covered the top of my paper. After the surprise, any essay assigned I was concerned for fear of another unfavorable grade and expected nothing but negativity.
So when I was introduced and encouraged to join the Odyssey, you could see why I was more nervous than excited by the thought of writing a weekly article. I was very hesitant to apply but when I was told by a few close friends that they would enjoy to read what I had to say; I felt I had a voice to share. However, I had a difficult time brainstorming what to write. Then it hit me, what is a better topic to write about than writing itself. It's something I have always struggled with but now I'm embracing my flaw and working on it.
Once I gained enough confidence to overcome my fear of writing for the eyes of others I felt I could do anything. That feeling stayed with me and when I took the first steps to begin writing, I wasn't so nervous. I hope to carry my new found confidence to all aspects of my life. But I also hope the next time I write; that I don't need my deodorant next to me.
During the process of completing this article, I learned a few things about life and about writing.
-A little practice goes a long way. Writing in a journal or writing essays for fun helped me build the confidence to go farther in my writing skills.
-It's good to face your fears but you can't let them control your life. As a good friend of mine always says, "You are stronger than you know."
-Expect nothing (neutral state of mind) but be open everything and anything.
-Challenge is good. It builds character and allows you to become a better version of yourself.
-Never give up. Though it is a cliche it still holds true; you need to finish everything you do wholeheartedly.
There is a beauty to writing you see, it allows for so much to happen in just a few words. It can expand your horizon, make you think, calm you down, and even keep memories alive. I didn't think writing could help me in so many ways. I wasn't expecting to learn anything from this, yet I did.
