With bittersweet emotions, this will be my final article for Odyssey. Over the last year, I have the incredible opportunity to expand my abilities as a writer, creator and artist. I have been able to have a platform to express some very deep seeded opinions, emotions, and interests in the public eye. I have greatly enjoyed this last year and wish to share some of the most important things I have learned about writing, society, and myself.
1. Creativity does not always come on it's own.
I consider myself an artist. That being said, creativity does not always present itself on a silver platter, ready to devour in minutes. There have been weeks where I have had no clue what to write about and eventually have had to just "pick" something. However, I have gotten better at this as the months have passed. Just like any other muscle, if you do not practice creativity, you do not learn how to look for it. When creativity is not floating out of the pan, so to speak, where do you find it? This brings me to #2.
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2. Inspiration can come from anything, anywhere.
Art is a beautiful thing because it is present in every facet of life; the trick is being able to notice it. Whether it be nostalgia, the current political system, a future vacation, etc...all kinds of stories, ideas and/or accounts can be transcribed into a great article if you are simply privy to the clues.
3. Writing is cathartic.
Whenever I am passionate, excited or upset about something, I have found it very helpful to process my thoughts by writing them down. Often finding it relaxing and soothing, sharing these thoughts with the public is exciting and helps solidify the catharsis of sharing thoughts in a collected and well-written manner. This being said..
4. It can be scary to put your personal beliefs, ideas, or opinions out there for the public to see.
This year, I have pushed myself to write things outside of my comfort zone; things which, if discussed in person, could easily lead toward a heated debate. I found it liberating to push the boundaries that I have built around myself in a way that allows for personal development, understanding and growth.
5. Writing is important.
Throughout my many years in school, I have grown to greatly appreciate the English language and all of its technical and grammatical facets. This opportunity has given me an outlet to expand upon a strong basis of academic writing and has allowed me to venture into a more mainstream way of writing.
6. Community is important.
My fellow writers at Missouri State's Odyssey have been wonderful people to be around. Though often not physically in the same place at the same time, the camaraderie and the encouragement from other writers was so crucial to being able to write an article every single week. Whenever someone struggled to come up with an idea, a crowd sourcing man hunt would then ensue to help that person find a topic for their article. The support, kindness and creative support will not go forgotten and was incredibly appreciated. While over the year, people have come and gone from the community, it has been a pleasure writing with each and every one of you.
7. My voice is important.
In a world over 7 billion voices, mine is just as important as anyone else. My opinions matter just as much. My art is just as paramount. This year has helped me realize my voice is an instrument and a tool through which laughter, pensiveness, critical thinking, truth and love can be/are spread.
It has truly been an honor to be a part of the Missouri State University Odyssey team. I will cherish the memories and the articles forever. Thank you for all of the love, comments and support over the year and don't worry, I will continue to write another facets as the years go on.
For the last time,
Cheers,
ZER
