Why do I blog?

I have always wanted to keep a journal. In fact, I have from time to time. It's the consistency thing that always gets in my way. This is how it usually goes: I feel the urge to start journaling again. I hit the bookstore. I buy a journal - a really pretty one (as if that makes a difference) with wide-ruled lines (I prefer those to college-ruled)... one that, as I browse the shelves at the bookstore, seems to call out to me "You'll use me. Really, you will. This time you'll stick with it!" Once the decision has been made, I go home and journal like crazy for two weeks until life gets in the way and I put it aside. Time and a lack of topics to write about usually give me major writer's block and eventually my journal ends up on a shelf somewhere never to be touched again. That explains the rows and rows of barely used journals I have in my bookshelf. It's sad really. Not only is it a waste of money to buy all these journals and never complete them... but it will be a difficult read for anyone who might care 100 years from now as they siphon through partially filled journals that have no particular order, sequence or topic.

Then one day, my friend Leigh Ann introduced me to blogging. I have been slightly more consistent with my blog than I ever was with my paper journals before. Both mediums share similar obstacles: time and topics. However, I have found that it's easier for me to keep up with an electronic journal because I'm on the computer so much throughout the day and I type faster than I write. A few friends and relatives have asked me: why do you blog? What's in it for you? What's in it for us? Good questions really. I appreciate the honesty and after much thought, I have come up with a few reasons why I love this so much.

1) I have always dreamed of being a writer - not necessarily a published writer (although I DO want to write a children's book one day) - but just someone who can write eloquently. Someone whose thoughts inspire others. Someone who can use words to evoke emotions out of those who read her works. This is a way for me to fine tune my writing skills while having fun sharing my thoughts, my experiences and my life with those who choose to read it. (I know, I know - I have a long way to go on the fine-tuning!)

2) As a way of saying thanks to all of the wonderful people in my life who inspire me to live life to the fullest, look beyond the surface, experience life beyond the obvious, and lovingly share their love, friendship and wisdom with me.

3) To update friends and family on the happenings of the Shoch clan - in particular, the Shoch tots... who are all everyone REALLY cares about anyway. (Our parents don't even call to talk to us anymore... just the grandkids.)

4) In my quest to go deeper. If you want to discover greatness, you have to dig deeper than the surface. It takes asking questions and being willing to hear the answers, all the while evaluating what you believe at your core... to discover true greatness. So... there are times I may ask deep questions in my blog. I welcome your thoughts and your comments in this process. We may see eye-to-eye, or we may disagree. Regardless, my hope is that in the end of it all you will better understand me... (and vice versa).

5) To remind myself every day (or week) of the things for which I am most grateful. There are so, so many!! Writing them down seems to keep my priorities in line.

Now it's my turn to ask you: why are you reading this?
(I welcome your comments below)