As part of this blogging challenge, I've been reading 2-10 other blogs per day. That's a lot of posts over the past 28 days! One thing that I've been continually impressed by is how many of these blogs focus on positivity and gratitude. I just don't think there's enough of either of those things in our world today. Sometimes I feel like I'm in the minority, being a person who believes we all have something to be thankful for each day. This challenge has been a blessing for me in many ways but this is probably one of the biggest: It has restored my faith in humanity a bit, you might say. I feel a sense of relief, seeing how many other souls out there are similar to my own. We're plugging away each day, sharing our thoughts and experiences with positivity and humor. We give each other feedback and inspiration, sometimes intentionally but mostly just by being present and true to ourselves. I have been moved to tears more than once so far by a friend's or fellow blogger's comment on my posts. Knowing that there are people out there who enjoy reading what I write is a feeling I haven't experienced to this degree before. It has motivated me to write more and more and to push myself further than I have before. I have more ideas than I know what to do with right now which is an incredible feeling!
While I've been doing this challenge all month I've also been participating in a 30 day photo challenge on FaceBook. Each day has an assigned subject so I go through my day looking for an opportunity to take the photo. Combine that with also thinking about writing a blog each day and I've been a regular idea factory this month! I have more ideas than I know what to do with right now which is an incredible feeling! I've been taking tons of photos and carrying a notebook with me at all times so I can jot down thoughts and descriptions. I'm documenting my life in a way I never have before. It's the first time in a long time that I've really felt this sense of worthiness about what I create.
I believe everything happens for a reason. There were some sad and unfortunate events that led to me being home by myself this summer but if they hadn't happened, I wouldn't have had the time to write for this challenge each day. I definitely wouldn't have produced the material that I have. I have questioned a few of the posts I've written this month. More than once I've cringed when clicking the "Publish" button thinking people would give negative feedback or think less of me for writing it. But I clicked it anyway and I am glad I did. I'm sure everyone hasn't loved every single thing I've written (I sure don't) but I haven't gotten any feedback that was less than positive. I'm already looking forward to the next challenge!
I share your gratitude for the Ultimate Blog Challenge. It has been a blessing to read peoples "stories" and to write my own. I would love my daughters to continue writing our "family story" on my blog long after I am gone.
ReplyDeleteWe truly live in a wonderful time - no longer constrained by the stories the media and consumerism want us to buy into. We are free!
It has been very inspiration participating in this event. It's also been a challenge trying to write every day when I already have an extremely full day of other writing projects. It's been a pleasure to read all of these messages of hope and positive aspirations. It's made me want to go out and write more. Just need to find the time.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing!
The UBC has been incredibly inspiring for me, too. I enjoy reading different blogs, commenting, and connecting with other like-minded people. Everyone has been so supportive. Keep writing! Your words flow beautifully!
ReplyDeletePenny
http://pennymcdanielspiritualguidance.blogspot.com
The UBC has been one of the best things I have done. Reading so many wonderful blogs. Seeing what others have to say is great. I am so inspired to share as well, rewarded by the encouraging comments of others. Great experience all round.
ReplyDeleteGood for you, and I appreciate your positive and grateful spirit. It's refreshing to read somebody with such an upbeat attitude about life. Keep doing what you're doing! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks! I appreciate you taking the time to read my blog & give feedback!
DeleteI absolutely love that picture. It makes me smile.
ReplyDeleteThanks, it's one of my favorites. That was back when I first got him and he would literally eat anything.
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