How vain it is to sit down to write when you have not stood up to live.
Henry David Thoreau
I think the most important thing about writing "slices of life" to me is that it is a record that I lived. Growing into adulthood without a mother made me often wish she had left me something...like letters. I wish she could have comprehended the impact her death would have on me and left me her story. I write to leave my boys my story.
I started keeping journals years ago. Then about three years ago I found TwoWritingTeachers. I started small, doing a few Slices and Monday Memoirs. I've also tried to complete the challenge every March, but this was the first year I've finished it. I think that it is moment worth celebrating.
I've realized through the years of reading Stacey and Ruth's entries that as a writing teacher I must be a writer. I feel like the whole experience has helped me grow as a teacher of young writers. Next year I'd like to include my students in the challenge.
I've enjoyed getting to know each of you and look forward to this digital journey as we continue writing.
6 comments:
Writing IS proof that you have lived a life...your boys are lucky that you will leave them a record of your thoughts as life happened. I will continue to slice, but in a different way. I began another blog, a non teaching one..to carry on this type of writing. It's: http://tmsdaytoday.blogspot.com...checkin with me!
First, Congratulations on your first finish! :)
Second, your boys are SO lucky!!! I have repeatedly wished for writing by my grandmothers or grandfathers. I have begged them and my own parents to complete journals, or even the pre-fabricated prompt-based books that would provide a collection of their history. So far, no such luck, but I will not give up!
I, too, LOVE the record my blog provides of my life and the life of my family, that someday, I hope, my children will appreciate and love.
:) j.
A most insightful series of observations. An indication of the writer as thinker. 'Writing IS proof that you have lived a life' is a powerful statment and rationale for writing. They are 'footprints.' that you came this way.
Take Care
Alan
"I write to leave my boys my story."
Wow, Lennye, this is so powerful and beautiful. I never really thought about the idea that my blogging is leaving a record of ME, leaving my story. I don't have children, but I can imagine my niece and nephew 'meeting' me here once they are older.
I've really enjoyed getting to read your slices and getting to exchange comments with you. I love all the ways we get to see how different and alike we are. I'm so glad you're a slicer!
YOU ARE A WRITER I LOVE READING! I agree that writing records your life and it's powerful.
What a great month and then some.
More Slices to come...
Bonnie
I really like your epigraph and the way Thoreau balances writing and living-- how appropriate for this slice of life challenge.
I'll be interested to see how you use the SOLSC with your students next year.
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