Looking Back

While on my computer-less vacation, I took some time to think about my writing.  "What am I doing with this blog?" I wondered aloud to Rob one night over dinner.  "I don't feel like I'm . . . getting anywhere.  The point was to have a place to put my writing, but now that I have it, I don't like what I'm filling it with."

"Really?" he responded, in that Socratic tone all teachers love.  "None of it?"

This made me sulk a little, but he'd made a good point.  There are a few entries I'm proud of.  And when I read over them, it's interesting to see that very few of them have to do with teaching, except tangentially.

To quote the catechism, What does this mean?!  I'm not sure.  But I know I like writing about my life, whether or not it's directly related to my career.  I know it doesn't make sense to limit yourself to the point where you can't write what you enjoy.  So if you see less social commentary and more personal vignettes from now on, don't be alarmed.  But do tell me what you think!

Comments

[Karen Grothe]

Emily,

I'm responding to your blog at the risk of sounding like a parent stalker. I found your site from K's site so maybe only a pseudo stalker, but I feel like I have to respond. I am drawn to read your entries because I honestly love to read your writing and feel like your heart comes through in almost every post. They are well thought out, articulate, thoughtful (different from well thought out) and just plain enjoyable to read. You are a wonderful writer. With your permission, I will keep reading. Or just tell me to stop and I will totally understand. But, regardless of whether I continue to enjoy your writing or not, please don't stop; better yet, publish some of it. You may stop writing your blog someday but I am quite sure you will never stop writing. And, by the way, you are a teacher I would have loved for my kids to have had.

[Emily]

Karen, I am so humbled by your response. Of course anyone is welcome to read my posts (that's how the Internet works, if I understand it :) but I never dreamed it would be you! I'm sure I've spent enough days and nights at your house to know you're not a stalker. In fact, we think of you every year on our anniversary, which was your anniversary first. Thank you for making my day!

[Connie Brown]

Don't stop! Please don't stop. I love your writing - your wit, your creativity - your honesty. It allows me to "talk" to you (or, I guess "listen" is the more accurate word) even though I don't live in close proximity to you.
Love,
Aunt Connie