As we sing Auld Lang Syne and say goodbye to 2024, there is much to reflect and much to look forward to in the year ahead. And just as every year passes, we make resolutions. Do we keep them? Why do we make them? What are they? But, most importantly, what do they mean to us? I have a few resolutions this year but the one I’d like to talk about is writing. It goes beyond a resolution for me, and more of an encouragement if not an urgent call for people to pick up a pen.
Stories of struggle
It is no secret that we are going through hard times this year. Over the last 14 years, Britain was thrown into an uncontrollable whirlwind. Now, the politicians claim successes and talk of sacrifice but it is us at the bottom of the food chain, us who work hard, us who are most vulnerable who suffer the most. And we suffer mostly in silence.
Don’t let that be the way it is. Speak up and speak out! There are many things I have learned about writing this past year; it gives a voice to the voiceless, makes you aware of what otherwise might have gone unnoticed to you and frees your mind from the constraints of our imperfect society. Use writing to counter the struggle.
Sharing is caring
Of course, life is full of wonderful things. Our whole world is and they can be little things right on our doorstep.
Pathways that guide us through fields of green and formidable forests, up hills higher than the clouds themselves and along rivers that flow ferociously through the land. Country lanes and roads, too, which take us to places of untold good times; every journey is a story to be told.
But there’s more! It could be a simple restaurant or film review or a report on an interesting and exciting event. With every experience you have; write about it, share it, let others know about it and experience the good times for themselves.
Fiction held within
Of course, it’s not all about reports and reviews or raising awareness about struggle. No. What about stories? What about those of you out there with stories within you? Stories you want to write but don’t? Have you ever thought about writing a book? Why don’t you if you have something to pen?
Maybe you don’t think you have enough for a book? All you need to do is think and plan. Failing that, short stories are great things too. Don’t have the time? Make some time, even if it’s just a little bit, every little bit helps. And if you don’t think your idea is good enough? Rubbish! Get writing and your work will speak for itself!
The written word is one of society’s most valuable treasures, something to be cherished and nurtured. We need to double down on it and increase it to lengths and heights unheard of.
Our New Year’s resolutions may mean many different things to us, we might be making them for our health, for our ambition or for others. Whatever your resolution is; put your experiences to paper, share your progress throughout the year and through the power of the written word, give success and inspiration to not just yourself but to those around you as well.
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