Saturday, January 1, 2011

A Year of Embracing Epiphanies


Blogger at work - Photo taken 1/1/11 by Mike Bourland

A Year of Embracing Epiphanies

My new year’s resolution last year was to start a blog.  I had no idea what I would write about or how to begin the process.  A friend told me about Blogger and another friend told me how to buy a domain name.  I tried several names, all of them taken, until I hit upon Embracing Epiphanies.  Perfect, I thought, the name pretty much summarized what I was attempting to do; simply notice the small moments of life and remark upon them.  Shortly after starting my blog, another friend told me how to link to Open Salon and a wonderful world of writers opened up to me.

The anniversary of my blog is January 6th, but I feel like today is the day to remark upon its impact on my life.  After all, it is the day for resolutions, new beginnings and looking back at the year that has passed.  Since January 6, 2010, I have posted 164 entries to my blog.  Astonishing, I remark to myself, how in the world did I have that much to say?  Well, life happens, stuff happens and writing about it can also happen.  Capturing the odd floating thought and creating a short essay or poem has proven to be quite cathartic, rewarding and illuminating.  The illumination has been important to me and occasionally to some of my readers.  I don’t purport to be changing the world here, but I do believe in the power of words and the power of communication.  Words carry emotional energy.  If we write with honesty and purpose then we might just hit a universal chord – one that can change a mind, brighten a day, provide solace to a lonely soul or even make someone laugh. 

I would have to say that my blog has also been a gift to myself.  I feel empowered by what I have done, by what I have said and by amassing a body of work that feels meaningful.  I like knowing I can click on a link and immediately read something I have written – I also like knowing I can click on a link and do some quick editing.  It’s important to me to use words that make sense and to write with clarity.

So, for those who read my blog, I thank you for the gift of your eyes and mind, the gift of your comments and the journey we are taking together along the path of life.  I look forward to embracing the stories that come my way this year and to sharing them with you.  May 2011 bring you many epiphanies and small moments of quiet grace.  

9 comments:

  1. Deepest congratulations. Your writing has enhanced my life and changed me in small ways, hopefully for the better. This is a huge achievement, as we head into your second year! From one of your greatest fans. xoxo Judy

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  2. Your writing and blog are such a gift to all of us who ready it. And I didn't realize that Embracing Epiphanies started on the Feast of Epiphany. I think that is what Jan 6 is, yes?

    Wonderful synergy and energy. I much look forward to what this next year brings for both you and me.

    Much love, Libby

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  3. Congrats Rita! I have enjoyed your blog immensely. It has inspired me, made me laugh, made me cry, made me think & made me love you even more :) --It is amazing to see how many blog postings can be accumulated with time. I was impressed that Shannon was able to print out a years worth of her blog & make it into a book. I hope you do the same - to actually hold your writing in your hands. Looking forward to reading more in the New Year 2011. Love you-----marti xxoo

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  5. rita-- i removed the other post because it was a duplicate
    :)

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  6. Marti, it would be nice to print them all out. I may consider that. Thank you for your kind words and support. It means so much. xoxo

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  7. Judy, thank you, thank you. You always make me smile with your kind and well-considered comments. I value everything you offer. xoxo

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  8. Libby, I just realized the Epiphany connection myself. That seems very meaningful, doesn't it? Thanks for your ongoing support. Next year will be better for both of us. xoxo

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