Pencil Full of Lead

I've never really been the 'artistic' type.

Given that I earn a living by solving technical and logical problems (and I would like to assume that I'm good at it, haha), one would normally think I'm right-brained. But in fact, two of my most favorite hobbies fall on the creative category: writing and singing.

But alas, I wasn't gifted with the voice and so I never really cultivated this endeavor. I resigned myself to simply listening to great music, singing loudly when I'm alone in the room or watching singing competitions on TV.

But writing - man, I think I used to be pretty good at it. Of course, I know I wasn't exactly award-winning or the best-selling one out there, but I know I was good enough. The countless yearbook write-ups I've been requested to do is testament enough, somehow. Haha! There was even a stranger who sent me a private message telling me that he's been reading my old posts and doing so has helped curb his homesickness (he was an OFW in Taiwan).

And damn, do I miss writing! And I mean the real kind of writing, not just the lengthy Facebook statuses I post occasionally. The kind where I just don't rant my opinions and emotions out but instead I actually express my thoughts intelligently and sufficiently. And if the topic allows it, entertainingly.

And so, if there's one thing I wish I could do more from now on, that is to write. There are days when I wish I could spend the afternoon at a coffee shop and type away for hours on end (and collect stickers while I'm at it, hehe!). Living in the information age, one would think that one will not run out of topics to write about and that one's thoughts can be easily converted into coherent paragraphs. But alas, all kinds of information being readily available means that distractions are also everywhere. In my case, it has become a matter of focus and discipline. Ha! Much like regular exercise. The advent of social media which puts premium in sharing one's brain farts in the quickest and easiest way possible in order to obtain instant gratification has taken its toll in my creative process.

And so, I think turning 30 is a perfect opportunity to reignite my writing juices. Writing 30 posts is a nice way to count down to that life milestone. To be honest, I don't know if I have enough creative material that will last daily for a month, but let's see! Therein lies the challenge!

I used to think that my way with words is what will make me rich or famous someday. Fun fact: I had a phase when I wanted to be an international pop star. But growing up, I realized I have my limitations and I must choose my battles. Haha! My investment savvy is what will most likely make me financially rich some day, but I feel my writing will always keep me grounded. Writing is what allows me to express what I'm really passionate about. I think any endeavor that allows us to bring out our passion will always be worth doing -- no matter how old we become.

#30to30