I feel like I’ve had this conversation in my head a million times and probably more than a handful of times with you, too. So if you’re sick of hearing about it, I apologize! But yesterday morning after hitting publish on our happy homeschool day post I got to thinking…
Should that post have been a private journal entry instead of shared on the internet? Not that anything super personal was in it, but more so my oozing of happiness and gratitude. It is 100% sincere. Especially because in the early quiet of the mornings, I feel my feelings about the passing of time and my gratitude for this life super strongly. However, perhaps I’ve been burned by a few rude comments over the years and feel like that level of contentment is best served lukewarm, as to ensure it’s not “too much” for anyone.
How sad is that? I worry about sharing my JOY because I’m bracing for backlash or eyerolls. But sometimes I do worry about that because I know the sincere hardships of this crazy world and the bitterness it can put in some hearts. I also know that hurt people hurt people, but being on the receiving end of misplaced discontentment still hurts.
I want to be a source of positive energy, but gosh sharing openly is a vulnerable state to be in. When I write like I’m talking to a best friend and get a zinger of rudeness back, it stings and makes me draw inwards.
Stopping here to brace for the: that’s what you get for putting your life on the internet comment.
I know a lot of bloggers have felt this and believe that is a key contributor as to why blogging has turned more “magazine-like.” It’s easier to write reviews and create recipe round ups than it is to write about your life. I know I’ve been drawn to that more magazine-like style more than once for several reasons- the lower emotional toll for one, and because as bloggers, we’re told niching down, giving helpful advice, and writing more polished “shareable” posts is the only way to grow.
A friend on IG yesterday, as I pondered all this, sent back – write what brings you joy and the right people will find you. BOOM. Truth bomb. And the exact advice I’d give to a friend, too. Write whatever you want to and I’ll keep stopping by to see what’s on your mind that day.
I know you are my people. If I look at things logically (not my strong suit; I’m driven by emotion), 95% of you that check in here on the daily are the ABSOLUTE best. We get each other like a group of old friends. You share with me your sources of joy in your life and it lights me up. You’ve also shared your common heartaches with me, as I lost important people in my life. I’m so grateful that you share your life with me. I feel like I know you and that is what has created the intimacy level that makes me comfortable sharing my life with you.
I have to believe that journal-style blogging isn’t dead because it is the part that brings me joy. And honestly, from what I’ve seen through your messages and through analytics is that there is still most definitely a space for “just” sharing about life.
So thank you for that. Like friends do, I’ll keep sharing what I’m cooking, trips we’re taking, solutions that are working for me, and items that make me happy- the lighter level joys of life. But I’m also committed to keep sharing the full spectrum of emotions I feel in a journalistic style because I love it and I think it’s what we all need more of- vulnerability, depth, and human connection beyond a single snapped picture of a filtered moment.
Thanks for stopping by and reading my most recent journal entry (lol). Here’s a picture from a very cold, wet, and cozy Tuesday to tie things up. I hope you have a great day!
