On October 8th, I will have been writing for Odyssey for a year. Applying to write is one thing that I will never regret. Not only have I learned more about writing and met great people that I wouldn't have otherwise, I have also learned more about myself. To the people who are considering applying to write for Odyssey, do it. It might be time-consuming, however, you have a platform to write whatever you want and put your opinions into the world. I have put together a list of what I have learned over this past year.
1. Don't be afraid to say how you feel.
There are so many people who think the same things as you and feel how you feel but either have no way to talk about it with a wide variety of people or they are scared to talk about it. Be their voice. Be the person that will show others they aren't alone. I have written articles about people in my life and they have gotten around. After that, I was scared to write about things personal to me because I didn't want anyone to jump to conclusions or judge me. However, I have started to not care and realized that their opinions don't matter. I am writing about how I feel and for people who can relate to me, not to be judged. If people judge me for how I feel, that's their own fault.
2. People may not agree with what you want to write, but still write it.
Some people in my life don't want me to write about some of the things I do. However, I still do. They always support me and I know they do, but they are just looking out for me. As much as I appreciate that, I believe that there is a reason I am here and there is a reason I am writing for Odyssey. I am here to share my story and help people who have been through what I have. I will never regret what I write.
3. You are strong.
Writing for this platform will show your strength. You are putting yourself out there; you're in a vulnerable position by writing how you feel and putting your story on the internet. Whatever you write about, people can judge you. But you write about it anyway. You are so strong and inspiring for not letting people hold you back.
