March 2024 SOLC–Day 27
A huge thank you to Two Writing Teachers for all that they do to create an amazing community of writers and a safe, welcoming space to write, learn, share and grow.
http://www.twowritingteachers.org
I haven’t shaken yesterday’s grumpiness, and I had a hard time rolling out of bed yet again this morning. Yesterday’s relatively disastrous math class is still resounding in my head, along with a lot of degrading self talk and the litany of Things-to-do that pollutes March each year. Then there are a few extras thrown in this year to add to the mess and stress. Oh, and don’t forget to add in a thick layer of self disgust for whining in the first place, when really I am so, so fortunate is so, so many ways. Ugh. I really hate feeling ugly inside.
Even though writing slices has been tough lately, I still keep writing in my notebook. I guess it’s a sort of sloppy creative journal. Whatever it is, no matter how I’m feeling, writing in it is a deeply ingrained morning habit.
Here’s what I just wrote this morning: “There are only 5 more slicing days left and I should be able to pull that off. Just 5 more slices to write — but these feel more like “cross it out” rather than “craft and enjoy.” I’ve found myself thinking lately that I might not do this next year. Maybe my 10th year is my swan song. But then I would probably still have an overwhelming, stressful March, but not have a collection of writing or the sense of community… “
Not long afterward, I stopped writing and got on-line to check my e-mails. There were a bunch of comments on my grumpy slice from last night from regular readers and others. Each one was so supportive and so empathetic.
“I get it.”
“I’m in the exact same place.”
“You’re allowed.” or
“I’m just. so. tired. of everything, really. It’s not that I can’t see the good things, I’m just grumpy.”
I felt seen, heard, supported and surrounded by community. A little bit of my toxic funk evaporated as I read each one.
These comments are such a tangible affirmation of why I do participate in this challenge. Sure, I want to work on writing and challenge myself to improve my writing craft. But really, the challenge is the golden ticket, giving me entry into this amazing community of supportive people who are in it together, doing the best we can.
So, here’s to all of you, with my deepest thanks for the ongoing support and encouragement! In particular, today, I thank Margaret, Lainie, Jessica, Stephanie, Kim, and Amanda.
You’re the best!
Nix the comfort zone 
I also write quickly in a journal each night and it’s glaring to see the thoughts reflected back. I’m glad you shared what you wrote and the comments from others. Maybe that’s why it’s called a challenge. But things do feel hard.
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I guess if it were super easy, it wouldn’t feel like as much of an accomplishment would it? I’m so glad you’ve been along for the ride this year, even if it’s been a bit bumpy!
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I feel like I could have written: “There are only 5 more slicing days left and I should be able to pull that off. Just 5 more slices to write — but these feel more like “cross it out” rather than “craft and enjoy.” I’ve found myself thinking lately that I might not do this next year. Maybe my 10th year is my swan song. But then I would probably still have an overwhelming, stressful March, but not have a collection of writing or the sense of community… “
I am in year 10 too and am in cross it off mode. You are not alone, for sure!
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Thanks so much! It’s nice to know there are other veterans out there, limping along with me.
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Thanks for sharing. This community can be so uplifting.
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It’s the best!
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Maybe it was just a Tuesday yesterday. I felt the same way, and in addition to struggling to write slices, I’m struggling finding poetry inspiration. I didn’t get around to commenting until after 10:00 p.m., so I’m trying to do better today. You’re right: Being in this community is a golden ticket. It really is a gift for staving off loneliness during this tough Month. I hope today is a good day for you.
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I’m really missing writing poetry right now. I simply don’t have the time. (Or at least that’s what it feels like.) Today was better overall, but I’m still counting the days to vacation. (11, in case you’re wondering!)
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I’ve had a hard time catching up with the blogs I want to read every day, and I chose yours to be the first one today. Before I run to read your previous slice, I wanted to say I’m grateful to have connected with you. I never imagined the awesomeness of joining this challenge and the eagerness I’d feel to check in with fellow writers. It’s truly amazing. The line I’d like to take with me is: “Craft and enjoy rather than cross it out.” I’m so excited to have another writing friend at the retreat this summer.
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Ana–thanks so much for stopping by! I’m always wishing I could read and comment more, and I get frustrated by time limitations. The community is amazing and I’m so glad you’ve had a rewarding experience with the challenge. I’m also really looking forward to meeting you this summer! I’m so glad you happened to mention coming to Maine and we connected the dots. See you in July!
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This is definitely a great place to get all of your feelings out and then get lots of empathy. I feel like I get way more and empathetic comments when I write that I’m in a bad mood or don’t feel like writing than when I write out some amazing piece of writing.
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I’m so thankful for that support. It was definitely a lift this morning!
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“The challenge is the golden ticket” YES!! It’s the community that brings me back, even though this March has been far more full of feelings and drama than I would like… Glad to be here with you.
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You just can’t beat this community!
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I think every one of us is/has been there—sometimes it’s just so hard to put each letter in front of the next, let alone making it all coherent and public. Thank you for your honesty, vulnerability, and insight into your journal. I know this community is better because you’re part of it!
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Thanks so much! It really takes all of us together to build this community, doesn’t it?
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I love the metaphor of the challenge being a golden ticket to enter into this community. I was just thinking the other day of how special it is to be reading each others’ posts for an entire month–because I really do start to feel like I know all of you and what’s going on (at least sort of) in your lives. Your first paragraph when you described all the yuckiness swirling in your head really resonated with me. I hope today was better!
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I agree that it’s such a privilege to get a window into each other’s lives during the challenge. And an inspiration!
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It is the community. There is a warmth and encouragement that makes this challenge not only doable, but enjoyable. (Said as I struggled to figure out what to write tonight–and why do I wait until the end of the day when I am tired and under a time pressure to start my daily slice?)
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I really try not to slice at night because that deadline is well….deadly! Instead, I try to draft something the night before. That usually only works for part of the time, though, and then I’m riding the struggle bus! Thanks so much for your ongoing support!
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You nailed it – March absolutely gets polluted by the to-do avalanches. I am right there with you. Personally, taking it one week at a time is too much for me in March. One day at a time can also be too overwhelming. Here’s to moving through this spring at a one THING at a time pace. ❤️
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One thing at a time is a good pace these days!
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Thank YOU for posting this! Like you, I treasure the love, support, and validation others offer me. It’s the one thing that often keeps me going through the month of March, and it’s the one thing I want for my students: to be READ, to be SEEN, to be HEARD.
I’m also glad I’m not the only one who sometimes feel like the end of the month feels more like a “check it off” task than a “creative exploration” task.
Here’s hoping the grumps have eased and faded as the days have gone on!
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Thankfully, the grumpiness has faded for now. I just wish I’d had more time to read, write and comment. There are just too many blogs I know I want to visit and too many fun new ones to explore!
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