I started blogging because I wanted an outlet for my ideas, wanted to practice writing, and perhaps re-channel my anxiety.
To an extent, I think I have been able to do this. I have written about struggles with positive body image, shared personal experience and I’ve touched on some of the challenges I have faced as a third culture kid (TCK).
In fact, my experience as a TCK is the original anchor of my blog. This year, especially in the last several months, as my personal challenges took shape, I relied less on this attribute. It was no longer useful for me narrate my experiences and emotions through the lens of a TCK.
I didn’t start my blog for followers or likes, but I have been lucky to attract the attention of a few loyal and remarkable followers. I have looked back at my blogs and I’m impressed with much of the content. I have been able to express ideas I’ve suppressed for many years. I’ve opened myself to possible critique, and I’ve maybe given those I’ve shared my blog with a chance to see a different side of me. Or perhaps, just me.
I’ve held back names and some finer details of particular events but for the most part, I have written honestly and to the best of my ability.
This post acknowledges how far I have come and the positive changes I’ve made thus far. Granted, while I have made an overall positive shift, there are things I still struggle with daily. This is just a part of life. What I am positioned to do now is reflect upon these daily struggles with more positivity than I have in previous years. I hope that I have put to death my former ‘doom and gloom’ mentally.
What do I need to work on moving forward ? Well, I’ve spent time doing repairs and I’d like focus on maintenance. But I’m fully aware that life being what it is, I’ll inevitably have to do some repairs along the way. The difference will be in the tools I use–tools that heal without causing more damage.
I’m dedicated to maintaining my ‘ship’ and keeping the water out. As Joel Osteen says, it is not the water surrounding ships but the water that gets in, that sinks ships.
& other long stories
& Other Long Stories 
It sounds like you are in a much better place these days. I hadn’t heard that quote before about it only being the water that gets into ships that sinks them, but it is a good one and there’s a lot of truth to it. I feel I’m constantly rushing around with a roll of duct tape to cover over leaks, but somehow I’m still afloat.
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Hi BunKaryudo, yes, I am in a much better place these days! I hadn’t heard the quote before either, but it resonated with me immediately. The leaks are inevitable, the trick is finding a method that keeps the water out, and keeps the mind and body healthy. Thank you for taking the time to read and comment!
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You’re welcome. It was an interesting post. 🙂
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I’ve been surprised by how much blogging allows me to “re-channel my [own] anxiety.” Sharing as exorcism perhaps?
In the meantime, I hope to be counted amongst the loyal followers. Your progress inspires me to make my own, and I learn something from you (and Joel!) every time I read. So thank you for encouraging those strangers out there in the blogosphere to take positive steps in our own lives, too! 🙂
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