There is often hidden fear behind expressing and sharing personal thoughts and ideas to the world through writing. Unless you study literature and the poetic forms, writing can be one of the most daunting tasks. It's not everyday we come across individuals with fantastic writing that sweeps us off our feet and challenges our minds to comprehend its meaning. Writing really is an art, but what not everyone understands is: You don't have to be good at writing to be a good writer.

Being a good writer has significantly little to do with your natural ability to write and create art on pages using the words as paint. Even the best authors had to learn from somewhere, something and at some point in their careers. Writing is something that is formed not by mechanical means, but by pure spirit and dedication to the art. The more an individual cares, finds interest in the topic and carries a passion to share their thoughts with others, the more mesmerizing their finished work will be simply by the sheer quality of personal connection the reader can feel; That is what makes good writing.

Writing can become something to rely on and something to support you in your everyday life. The most ingenious and influential individuals in our lifetimes can tell you honestly that writing and journaling can be a form of anxiety relief and a safe way to document things like doctor's appointments, treatments and food trials. Writing is just your voice being displayed in text, and while this seems scary to some, I personally believe it reveals a more deeply impactful fear of their inner-selves and self expression. That is all writing is. Writing is the elegant construction of one's inner most voice displayed in visual cues.

Writing has given me a chance to relive some of the things I would rather not discuss. My pain and weakness, my fear and irritants, my successes and hopes have all been published for global observation, investigation and criticism. I think what makes some of the best writing is truly eliminating that fear of judgement and dissatisfaction. In all of seven billion people, someone will hear your voice within the lines. And at best, that person will benefit from that simple connection.

When I began writing for Odyssey, I was greatly interested in growing with this position. I looked for every opportunity to advance, become something more than an additional voice in the group's shadow. I wanted my ideas and my personality to coexist in something that someone else could relate to, follow, and share in excitement. I wanted to spark interest in those around me to express in what I think is the most natural way possible. I was empowered by what my words could influence, even in the smallest of ways. Odyssey has so many amazing opportunities for us, that it's amazing to see what they are willing to do to help our material meet its full potential.

I have learned that being a part of a team that is constantly pouring their hearts into their work is some of the most genuine inspiration I've encountered. Being the Editor in Chief of a team, I watch my teammates write article after amazing article, and with subjects ranging from critical world news to personal emotions and incidents felt right in their very souls. Reviewing and watching these articles come together has really shown me how much a person can love something, how much someone can feel, and how much someone can influence. It's important to give each voice a chance and allow equal form of expression to anyone in search of a creative outlet.