There are millions of writers in the world. So what makes someone think they can stand out in the crowd?


It’s a difficult task to do – but it can be done. I have scoured numerous articles about writing and have been given a number of tips on how to be a good writer and how to be a bad writer. This information has been extremely helpful, but it can be a burden as well.


It can stop someone from actually writing. For example, I always try to think of a topic that would attract readers. Once I have my focus – I deter myself from writing because I think: it’s been done before or what if no one likes it.


If I have not actually written my piece, then I go to the web for information. How can I make this topic more interesting? How can I attract readers?
After reading the articles, I am finished. Not finished with my topic – just finished with writing in general.


I become so frustrated with reading the articles because they bring me back to reality – there is no way I can stand out among the crowd.
Then, I remember that my writing is unique, and it’s not about whether or not I stand out – it’s about content and my story. Each writing style is different, and not everyone is going to like the way you write.


No, I am not an “expert” on writing since I have just started my career – but even a professional can botch up the job.


Sure, my blog may be one of many on the web, but that’s not going to stop me from writing. I may not write every day, but I want to keep make sure I am not becoming repetitive or boring. I want to inspire others to write because it’s one form of communication that will never die.

Challenge Yourself

Happy Belated Earth Day everyone!!


I know – I am a little late on this. Rather than competing with all the other blogs, I opted to take the day off and enjoy Mother Earth.


My inspiration consisted of me walking around Creve Coeur Lake, which left me exhausted. Even though my body does not walk five miles every day, I wanted to challenge myself. I knew that after it was over: I would be proud.


We face challenges every day, and we always find ways to overcome them. Now I have something to ask of my readers: Challenge yourself.


Do one thing that scares you or do something you have always wanted to do. What are you waiting for?


Now that I have completed my 5-mile trek, I am challenging myself to walk it on a daily basis. My other challenges are getting back into school and finishing my degree. Either way it goes, I have a lot on my plate – Because there are more goals I want to reach.


We will always face difficulties, but we should not let it stop us. We have to think about the “Big Picture.”


Yes, it good to be cautious – but that does not mean we should stop living life.
I will agree that the economy sucks, and we always get through it. Right now, it’s just a little tougher than we expected. But what’s life without a little challenge.


Don’t become distraught, and don’t hide under a rock. Enjoy life – Take pleasure in what we have been given!

Inspiration through Religion

Religion inspires many people to do wonderful things. It can be used as a motivational tool to keep individuals going throughout their day to day lives. In my opinion, religion drives us to help others throughout our communities, and even the world.


Personally, I am not a very religious person, but I do believe it helps our society in numerous ways. Ultimately, people come together to worship a supreme being. This being has many different names, such as God, Allah, Buddha, Brahman, etc. The primary purpose of these religions is to motivate their communities to treat others with respect, promote happiness, and believe in themselves as well as a higher power.


Each religion has its benefits and downfalls, but I am not here to argue those ideas. I am just asking for everyone to share their story as to how religion has inspired them. Some go on to become religious leaders, while others help their communities through various religious functions.
Growing up, my family raised me to be a Catholic. They enrolled me in PSR classes, and this helped me learn more about the church and its purpose in Catholicism. It also helped me become more centered on my family as I entered adulthood. Even though I do not always agree with some Catholic ideas, this religion played a huge part in becoming a good person.


Throughout my life, I have “experimented” with various religions, but the two I relate to the most are Catholicism and Buddhism. The two are very different, but very similar at the same time. The beliefs of the SGI (Soka Gakkai International) taught me to believe in myself. The members taught me that everyone deserves to be treated with respect, despite their circumstances. They also helped me feel more comfortable with myself as a single mother. They showed me that as long as I am a good person, it’s not wrong for me to pray for things that I want. I am very thankful that I met certain individuals in SGI because they helped shape my ideas even further.


I still even use both religions to inspire my thoughts, ambitions and ideas today. I may not take part in their functions, but both religions still motivate and inspire me. Again, every religion is different, but they each have their own purpose –and they help inspire others throughout the world.

Wear Sunscreen - Baz Luhrmann

This a great inspirational song. I hope everyone enjoys it!

Decisions, Decisions

Decisions: we make them every day. They range from what we are going to wear to what we want for dinner. Then, there are the decisions that can change our lives - what exactly do we want.

To me, that's one of the hardest choices I needed to make. In high school, I went from wanting to be a journalist to desiring an advertising career. Now, I have been working towards public relations and event planning. These career paths are all similar since they consist of writing, but they are also very different.

Writing is what drives me because I know words, thoughts, ideas and opinions fuel our world. If you can talk, speak, think, then you can write: Everyone has a different style. So now I want to ask you, what do you want? Are you doing what makes you happy?

Have you taken the right steps that will lead you to the path of happiness? I know those are difficult questions to answer because everyone has a different definition for the term "happiness." - but set all those other viewpoints aside. If you think about someone else's definition for too long, it will drive you insane. Then you will constantly be questioning yourself.

Think about your desires and your dreams: what makes your heart beat faster; what makes you smile and what makes your eyes sparkle?

Once you have figured that out, develop a plan to get there. You may have a destination, but it is pointless when you do not have a map to guide you. For example, that's why I started this blog: I want people to hear my thoughts and opinions. While you are reading this, I am trying to make my dream happen. I am constantly thinking about ways to re-invent myself and my writing.

I don't want to settle for something that does not meet my definition of happiness or success. Sure, I could be happy with what I have, but it is not "me."

My last comment is do not let fear overcome you. It happens to the best of us. I know there are other bloggers out there who have the same idea as me, but I cannot let that stop me. There will always be competition; it's just a fact of life. Just keep striving for your goals and eventually you will end up on the right path.

Freewrite

You could say I have been wanting to write this awhile, but I never really took the time to finish my thoughts. I hope everyone enjoys my crazy thoughts!


He told me to write – just write. But what do I write about? Do I write about love, hope, inspiration or nothing at all? I wanted my blog to inspire others, but how to I convey that idea? Why do I over analyze topics and not listen to my heart?
Many people, including myself, forget that inspiration can come in different forms. However, words are my inspiration. Reading how others formulate a sentence and how it flows always amazes me. Sometimes, I feel as if my writing cannot compare to other writers, but I forget others feel the same way about me. Ultimately, it is the thought that matters: it is how everyone can relate to it.


The other day, I was watching my favorite anime, Bleach. I read the translation of Inoue’s thoughts about how she wanted to be strong for her friends and how she did not understand why they came to save her. The words, the thought and the flow were pure genius – maybe this is the romanticist in me.


Listening, or I should say reading, to her thoughts gave me insight as to who I am as a writer. Passion and frustration are the keys to my writing – this may be true for anyone’s writing. I cannot write while I am happy. All of my poems – I wrote them while I was sad or frustrated. Romance and passion did not enter my life until the ladder years, but I feed off of those feelings as well.


In fact, I truly believe this is how everyone operates. It’s when we let go of logic and let our hearts’ thoughts consume us. Living through our feelings can be dangerous; however, it can help certain individuals become creative geniuses.

Passion

My last blog post was kind of "eh." in my opinion. I knew what I wanted to say, but I didn't know where I was headed. I'll end up revising it eventually - for now, I will start you with a new thought.

Passion is what drives us. Without it, life would be dull. Everyone has a passion: cars, writing, traveling, dancing, singing, etc. You can see a person's eyes sparkle when they are doing something they love.

If you want see a "happy" me, then talk about writing, creating events and finding new ways to help people. I can feel my heart lift, my mind race, and my face will light up with a smile.

I spoke with one of my friend's about her business because I want to help her succeed. Her concept is impeccable and like no other: All Moms Go to Heaven. I truly believe her business is headed in the right direction, and I will be helping her with a few things. Once we have it set up, you will be able to read an interview either in May or June.

She has been an inspiration along with a few other individuals. She has a passion for her business, and some people don't understand that. She does not want to settle for what she knows: She wants to reach for the stars.

It's amazing how many people complain about life because they settle for comfort. Sure, there are a few passions that do not pay the bills; nonetheless, it does not mean you should stop doing what you love.

The States, even the world, is consumed with a fast-paced life and what a person can do to make the most money. Don't get me wrong, we need money to survive in this world. On the other hand, it's just paper: it won't make you happy. It will solve a few problems, but that's about it.

As we get older, we should be able to look back and say, "I had a good life, and I wouldn't change a thing." So why not do what you love? Am I saying you should quit your job? No, I'm not that stupid.

Find a way to transition. If it won't pay the bills, do it in your free time. Just make sure you don't regret missing out or pushing your passion aside. Everyone deserves to be happy.

Well, that's it for now. I am off to spend the rest of the day with my son.

Happy Easter Everyone!!!!!

Don't Blame Yourself

July 23rd, 2006 is a day that I will always remember. It is possible I may forget the event that occurred, but it remains in my memory for now.


That was the day I found out my son's father was cheating on me. My heart dropped into my stomach. Tears streamed down my face. And all I could do was blame myself. Various thoughts raced through my head. I wanted to pinpoint where I went wrong, but I was not the one to blame.


It took me two years to stop accusing myself. And I finally saw him for the person he truly was. During those two years, I lived my life so my son and I could survive, but my mind and my heart no longer possessed the spirit they once had.


I kept making myself accountable for his actions when I should not have been doing that. My life took a hard hit because I allowed myself to sink into a depression. And, I am sure there are numerous people out there just like me: some major event takes place, and they criticize themselves.


It's a hard habit to defeat, but you need to take control of your life. You cannot always control outside forces. However, you can prepare for them. If I would have listened to my classmates, then I may have been able to let go of the blame. I always maintained a good support team, but I could not stop the little voice in my head. The voice kept saying, "you're going to screw up again, and this time it will be much worse."


Honestly, I have not figured out how to stop that voice or the people who try to hold me back from my dreams. Instead, I have made them my motivation. I am going to prove them wrong, and "make them eat their words." If I let their words stop me, then I will never achieve my dreams, and they will win.


In my mind, I will not let that happen. I will not become complacent until I have reached my goals. My long journey has just begun, but when I reach my destination, I will smile knowing I have overcome obstacles that have been placed there for a reason. The big picture always reminds me of my responsibilities, my dreams, and my desires.

Don't let the outside forces stop you from your dreams. Just laugh. Show them that you will surpass their hindrances. And, you will eventually reach your destination.

Think Outside the Box

"When life gives you lemons, just make strawberries."

I am pretty sure I have a few people raising their eyebrows right now, but let me explain why I chose this quote. Earlier this week, one of my friends told me this on Facebook in order to put a smile on my face. Let's just say it worked, and I am in much better spirits despite the obstacles I have encountered.

Typically, people will say, "Just make lemonade," but who wants to hear that again? Given the economy, it is time for people to think outside the box. I have heard this from my boyfriend, the news, etc., and I am beginning to realize it's time for a change.

I will admit change can be scary, but comfort can become dull and boring. Everyone needs a little excitement in their life: plus, this is what life is all about. Who knows where the world would be today if it was not for inventors, philosophers or entrepreneurs,

Alexander Graham Bell is a good example: he is credited with inventing the telephone (I know everyone knows this, but there could be someone who doesn't). Without this idea, we would not have a way to contact people around the country or around the world. We would not have cell phones, blackberries or smartphones.

Our world is constantly developing new technology because someone felt that their invention would have a purpose for others. They felt their idea would make our lives simple and more convenient. Ideas and inventions are symbolic of change. There are people who are quick to try anything new, but there are also people who are hesitant to change. I would advise those people to take a chance, and they should not be afraid of change. If it does not work out, then learn from your mistakes, but don't let your mistakes get the best of you. I know it is easier said than done, but it's probably the best advice I can give.

If some major event happens in your life, embrace it and accept the challenge. Who knows where this path could take you? Do not let obstacles hinder you from having true happiness.

15 Maybes

I will try to write another blog this evening, but I will leave you with some thoughts for now.

15 Maybes is actually an e-mail I received, but I felt it had depth versus other forwards I have received. I hope you enjoy this as much as I did.

15 MAYBEs . . .

1. Maybe . . . We were supposed to meet the wrong people before meeting
the right one so that, when we finally meet the right person, we will know
how to be grateful for that gift.

2. Maybe . . . When the door of happiness closes, another opens; but,
often times, we look so long at the closed door that we don't even see the
new one which has been opened for us.

3. Maybe . . . It is true that we don't know what we have until we lose
it, but it is also true that we don't know what we have been missing until
it arrives.

4. Maybe . . . The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of
everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their
way.

5. Maybe . . . The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten
past; after all, you can't go on successfully in life until you let go of
your past mistakes, failures and heartaches.

6. Maybe . . . You should dream what you want to dream; go where you want
to go, be what you want to be, because you have only one life and one
chance to do all the things you dream of and want to do.

7. Maybe . . . There are moments in life when you miss someone -- a
parent, a spouse, a brother, a sister, a friend, a child -- so much that you
just want to pick them from your dreams and hug them for real. So once they
are around you, appreciate them more.

8. Maybe . . . The best kind of friend is the kind you can sit on a porch
and swing with, never say a word, and then walk away feeling like it was the
best conversation you've ever had.

9. Maybe . . . You should always try to put yourself in others' shoes. If
you feel that something could hurt you, it probably will hurt the other
person, too.

10. Maybe . . . You should do something nice for someone every single day,
even if it is simply to leave them alone. Profound!

11. Maybe . . . Giving someone all your love is never an assurance that
they will love you back. Don't expect love in return; just wait for it to
grow in their heart; but if it doesn't, be content that it grew in yours.

12. Maybe . . . Happiness waits for all those who cry, all those who hurt,
all those who have searched, and all those who have tried, for only they can
appreciate the importance of all the people who have touched their lives.

13. Maybe . . . You shouldn't go for looks; they can deceive; don't go for
wealth; even that fades away. Go for someone who makes you smile, because it
takes only a smile to make a dark day seem bright. Find the one that makes
your heart smile .

14. Maybe . . . You should hope for enough happiness to make you sweet,
enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human, and
enough hope to make you happy.

15. Maybe . . . You should try to live your life to the fullest because
when you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling but
when you die, you can be the one who is smiling and everyone around you
crying.