Others > Self

Considering others above self makes all aspects of life better, and the same, I've discovered, holds true in writing. This is going to set the tone for the rest of this blog, and I think it's even going to mean the return of The Lighthouse Project. 

I just want to encourage people to look beyond themselves. Journaling is good, and healthy, and I encourage it. Self-reflection is one of the most important things in life.

But I've learned so much in the past two years from other people, the people I've interviewed for stories. Things I'd never learn if I hadn't met them and talked with them and, most important, listened to them. I mean, really listened, not just took notes about and nodded and smiled at. 

Katie said something brilliant last night, something I'll remember forever. It perfectly captures everything I've ever felt about writing, and I didn't even realize I felt it until she said it:

People can find a thousand things to write about themselves, but that just means that there are a thousand things to write about every person you meet. You'll never run out of material.

Bingo, jackpot, nail on the head, winner winner chicken dinner!

Of course, that means never running out of writing material, but there's something more there, too. You'll never stop learning. Some things you learn will be things to avoid. Some things you learn will be things to follow. It's all about the learning. 

Comments

[Kara]

winner winner chicken dinner. i like it.