Think Aloud on Paper

Contemplating what to write, I realize I'm suffering from a type of writer's block known as "futility-itis" or "what's-the-point?-ism". Even writing the afore was an exercise in white-knuckling it. Through clenched teeth I have to rely on a blind faith that my talent, my search engine, my compulsion, my catharsis - completely egocentric as it is - is worth something.

Today, I'm doing an exercise I learned in between the lines of my life called:

Think Aloud on Paper

Write even when it seems as if what you see, hear, smell, touch, taste, feel, think and intuit is unimportant, unoriginal, invalid or insane.

Be fearless, but be cautious. Never write anything you aren't prepared for the whole world to read.

Write everything, say nothing.

Believe that someone somewhere is validating your written experience because they can relate. How they relate is their business, that they relate is the point.

Simplify. Communication is about attaining an agreement or an understanding about the meaning or nature of something. Establish the alphabet of simplicity before attempting the nuance of ten-cent words.

Remember everyone important in your life - and don't let that silent audience silence you.

Beat yourself up to do it. Even doing a little accomplishes a lot.

And then graciously reward yourself with something that makes you feel good.

I'm going to snuggle my son.