In my experience, when I know the reasons why someone does something I pay attention to it and give it more respect. I felt it would be great to share my purpose in writing articles for readers as well as to remind myself.

I write to #StoptheStigma. Mental health has become an important part of my college experience because it has been affected by many things that have happened to me in my 3+ years here. I feel strongly that I must be willing to talk openly about mental health, mental illness, and their intersections in my life if I want the stigma to dissipate.

I write to speak up about what matters. Using my voice is important, speaking up for injustice is important, and using my experiences to help others is important. That is what my goal is for each and every article I write whether on a serious or lighthearted topic. If I think something is unjust, I want to have the courage to speak up about it, if I have struggled with something I want to share my experiences in hopes of encouraging someone else, and if I have some fun tips or "life hacks" I want to share those as well.

I write to glorify God. As Psalm 115:1 says: "Not to us, O LORD, not to us, But to Your name give glory for the sake of your steadfast love and your faithfulness." God created me with a passion for writing so I want to glorify Him with my words. I know that every experience that I have had is for my good and God's glory and want my writing to reflect that (Romans 8:28).

And finally, I write because it is fun! I truly enjoy writing, and am glad for an opportunity to write for fun in college. And picking gifs for listicles is also a great time. It is very important for good mental health to have things to do simply for fun. Writing is not only that but it is a great creative outlet too.

I am grateful for the opportunity to use my voice and truly want to use it for good and for things that matter. In knowing why I write I will stay focused while also expanding my options for topics within these parameters. I hope in expressing my "why" readers will see the bigger picture in what I decide to share with the world.