I always knew I wanted to be a writer. Even as young as four years old, I could recognize that there was something different about me. No matter where I was, or what I was doing, my mind was always writing a story. And I could always hear words floating around in my brain, writing poetry before I even knew what that genre was.
Everything I experience is spoken in my mind in scripted language, in words and phrases that only I can understand. As I move through life, I hear lines of text writing themselves. It’s hard to explain, but writing an integral part of me. A part that’s entirely defined who I am.
I started writing stories and poems as young as fourth grade. I still remember the teacher who inspired me by giving me my first ‘Writer’s Notebook.’ It was such a distinct moment; I can still feel that little red-and-navy-patterned book in my hands—like a promise—endless possibilities.
From that moment, I started pouring my heart into journal after journal, and book after book. My first real ‘step’ into the professional world came with these pages, with this blog I came to define as my ‘internet home.’
I launched this page, Word & Sole, in 2008.
What began as simply a space to share my typed writing slowly grew a following, a network, and a sense of unity. I felt connected to my readers and empowered to be my most honest and transparent self. And I realized that people desperately need places like this. We need to read others’ thoughts. We need to be connected and understood. And above all, we need to know we’re not alone.
I created Word & Sole because I was desperate to share my heart, but it wasn’t always easy. I’ve shared about my writing journey many times, and one of the aspects I have to be honest about is my fear to start. I was paralyzed, at first, by people reading what I had to say. As a ‘recovering perfectionist,’ as I’ve called myself, it’s hard to be vulnerable when you know your writing isn’t perfect. But good thing no one’s is.
Learning to let go of that expectation and truly be free has been my biggest obstacle, lesson, and joy. But creating this blog has taught me that when we allow ourselves to be imperfect and we embrace our mistakes—we grow.
One of the most powerful things I can do as a writer is use this space for openness.
So if you’re reading these pages, first, thank you. Thank you for coming into this space with a desire to learn, to share, and to celebrate humanness. You’ll find, in this blog, my deepest musings and thoughts. You’ll find practical guides and products. You’ll find ramblings, personal essays, poems, and contemplations. Some pieces dive into the heartbreak and pain I’ve experienced over the years. And some will celebrate my biggest triumphs and special moments.
I gave this page the name ‘Word & Sole’ because words have defined my path (literally and figuratively). And also, because I’ve always been a runner, thus the play on ‘sole’ was powerful for me. Our lives are defined by the steps we take and the directions we choose. For me, that’s always been a combination of trusting my feet, my faith, and my voice.
As you read this blog, you’ll take a piece of my heart with you.
So I ask, if anything resonates, please let me know. Please share, please tag my social media, and please reach out. I’m here, and I’m real. And if you’re a budding writer or looking for someone to work alongside you, consider me as a writing coach.
Above all, though, don’t shy away from words or who you are.
Words will change you, if you let them. Don’t be afraid.
Featured Image Credit: Gabi Nehring
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