A Blog Post about Blogging:
During this whole
semester we've been required to blog once a week as part of a larger class
project. This seemingly easy task actually proved to be a bit challenging as I
was constantly stuck with choosing which awesome part of my week to write
about. Either that, or I was faced with the daunting task of feeling like I
needed to recollect everything which was really overwhelming. I'm known for
being wordy so I was so shocked when I found myself staring at the screen
struggling to find the words to talk about this amazing experience. Although initially I did not fully appreciate
this assignment I have actually grown to love the exercise of blogging during
this semester. Since I did not know how to recount everything I decided to keep
my own blog to supplement my work for class. Surprisingly this became a fond
hobby. I've even found myself dying to get my hands on a keyboard just so I can
write about my experiences. I've spent hours writing and rewriting each post
until I've felt it was perfect or relayed a particular message. This has been
really exciting and the response has been so encouraging.
After a while I saw
my posts change from events, activities, and tourist hot spots to big ideas,
meaningful experiences, and reflections. It was really interesting to watch my
writing shift as my experience became more intense and intricate. My focus changed
also. Instead of trying to record everything in a sort of "look what I'm
doing" mentality I wanted to write so that I could share with friends and
families the important messages and questions which are crowding my mind and
shifting my perspective each day. I felt that it was urgent to get the word out
and share my experiences.
Over the course of
the semester, we've talked a lot about the power of telling stories. There is
incredible strength in appreciating each other and working to understand their
lives. It is one huge component of being respectful but it can also really change someone.
I think that actually boils down to being an activist and an active listener.
I've learned the most when I've just observed and listened; when I wasn't in
the dominant role or even planning on learning anything. One thing I've decided
though is that it would be selfish of me to keep all this new knowledge and
intention bottled up inside. I need to
share these experiences so that others can feel empowered too. So that's how
this blog came about. I couldn't help but spread the word! I needed to share
what I've seen and heard! I am incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to
travel and learn and not everyone can be afforded this luxury. Therefore I must
speak out! I have loved reflecting on and sharing these
events with everyone. If you have not yet had a chance to enjoy some additional
aspects of my writing please view my blog: melisincapetown2013.blogspot.
Happy Reading!!!
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