I'm not a therapist, nor will I ever be.
I'm not even the type that gives advice and counsels others well.
I can't solve world problems, let alone my own problems.
We all have problems that inconvenience our daily lives - problems with work, school, and home.
Significant others, parents, children, friends, and family members test our patience, tempers, and will.
Health problems plague many of us, financial woes are in full swing, and the uncertainty of our future path makes life stressful more often than not.
What we all need, though, is an outlet - a place to vent frustrations, celebrate joys, humor ourselves, and relax.
What we need is more writing in our lives.
Writing is a strong form of expression.
Writing is a chance to escape from reality, confront trauma, and spark creativity.
Simply put, writing offers freedom for our souls.
As an English instructor, I find that too many people (primarily my students) have had negative experiences with writing.
Whether it was a grade school teacher's harsh words ("You can't spell") or a peer's cruel observations ("You're writing sucks") or even a family member's disparaging words ("You'll never be a writer"), too many people doubt their abilities to write.
What many don't realize, though, is that writing does not have to be evaluated.
Writing does not have to be something you share with others.
Writing doesn't have to be "perfect" or even good.
Writing is a personal act - for you and only you.
More importantly, writing can be that very outlet you need when stress beckons and life is off balance.
Trust me, I know - that's why I write.