Words.

“Isn’t it mysterious to begin a new journal like this? I can run my fingers through the fresh clean pages but I cannot guess what the writing on them will be.” – Maud Lovelace

In a way this blog is a journal, a way for me to express myself in writing about topics I wish to explore. The big difference is that it’s not just a collection of pages and thoughts hidden between two covers anymore. Here, in this form, it’s on display.

Is it immensely nerve-wracking to share my musings with a public audience?

Uh, you bet it is.

Is it also rewarding and thrilling to think someone might appreciate my simple words?

Yeah, it absolutely is.

I currently have a journal on my nightstand, stacked upon a few books and right underneath my 2015 planner. Flowers and beautiful typography with the words “Enjoy the little things” adorn the cover as it waits for me to take a pen to its pages. While many of the words found inside are those from my own thoughts, there are spaces devoted to the inherent wisdom of the world’s best and brightest.

The quotes that fill its pages are those of artists, authors, presidents, leaders, musicians, scholars – men and women whose influence stand the test of time. Whenever I come across a quote that gives me an “aha” moment, I jot it down. I save it. A phrase to spur a new insight to the workings of the world. Words intended to inspire. Quotes to redesign my outlook on life. Each line is a meaningful addition to sit alongside a collection of my own efforts.

Beginning a new journey can be overwhelming, but gaining insight from those who have walked this path before makes taking the next step much easier. As I flipped through my journal in search of inspiration I came across the following quote: 

“To say the very thing you really mean nothing more or less, or other than what you really mean; that is the whole art and joy of words.” – C.S. Lewis

Above is my challenge as the mysteries of my following posts linger in the forefront of my mind.

Say what you wish to say, with honesty and heart.

Embrace the art and joy of words.