end of the chapter exercise…

The first chapter of an old creative writing book is what put me to bed last night. The question at the end asks, “Why do you write?” I’m not sure it’s complete, but here are the answers that have floated to the surface so far…

 

I write to remember. I write because it elevates the moments in an ordinary day. I write so my kids understand me. I write to open my mind to the world. I write because I like to play with words. I write to quiet my brain. I write to record the things I love. I write because I have something to say. I write so I have something to say. I write to stay connected. I write because it keeps me quiet. I write because it gives voice to my dreams. I write because it doesn’t cost anything. I write because it’s what I want to do when I grow up. I write so that laundry and dishes are not all my children see me doing. I write because it gives me energy. I write to see if I’m still interesting to be around. I write because it makes me feel like a three year old in the sand box. I write to keep me company while I sip a cup of tea. I write to get through the winter and then I write to celebrate the sunshine. I write so that I can put aside the things that scare me. I write to give my anxiety to God. I write to take record of the things growing around me. I write as an excuse to sit on my front porch swing. I write to remind myself of what is important to me… people, beauty, simplicity. I write when I need to rest. I write best after I’ve read something that inspires my soul. I write so I can fix the outcome of my nightmares. I write because the best way to see if I’ve learned something it to try to re-say it in my own words. I write because it builds my confidence. I write to be silly. I write when it’s easier than saying something out loud. I write to give my teachers peace of mind … see I really was listening and learning. I write to teach what I have learned. I write because it makes me feel wise and then I write so that I see how little I really know. I write because my parents have never said, “no you should not do that.” I write to feel vulnerable and take risks and I write when I get hurt. I write to leave something behind. I write because it is my music…