Slice of Life Story Challenge March 31 - The End Is Often Overrated

The End Is Often Overrated

Teachers are so very familiar with the classroom cry, ‘I’ve finished.’

It provides the perfect opportunity to share the truism that every stop is a place to start.  I’m not about to call out those familiar words. I understand that there are other compelling matters to which I must attend. I am therefore, not finished.

I am not going to write the words ‘The End’ either. Teachers will also be familiar with this practice. Inexperienced student writers often feel compelled to inform their readers in big, bold letters that the end has been reached. I am sure my readers are smart enough to realize that when the words stop that they have reached the end of the piece. Readers understand when the end is reached. It is invariably a happy-sad occasion.

It is however with some sense of relief and a large degree of personal satisfaction that I have reached day 31 of this, my eighth challenge. Professional and personal lives continue to require nourishment and attention while the challenge is in town. The writing never takes place in isolation.  For every participant the daily slice writing must fit in with the demands of our wider lives.

 There is something quite addictive in this process; this annual challenge. Something keeps me drawing me back. I remain a moth to this writing flame, drawn to the task of composing my daily slice of life story.

I recognize what it provides me as a writer, -focus and discipline. It delivers ideas in abundance. More importantly, it gives me community. Audience and feedback inform and sustain the writer within. I am aware writing can be isolating without these critical elements. I embrace the exchanges with fellow writers.

And so, another March is captured in words, words catalogued for future reading.

I have made discoveries, for part of this journey involves exploring self. I have also been able to learn of common incidents by reading into the lives of fellow writers. These shared experiences allow me to contemplate and connect, despite our geographical differences. It reinforces the fact that treasure frequently resides in embracing the moment.

Thank you fellow SLICERS for your valued feedback! Thank you for the chance to share respective writings. Thank you for sharing through your writing so much of yourselves, as you go about living your fulfilling lives. I gain insights and inspiration from your respective lives

Congratulations and sincere thanks to the team at Two Writing Teachers for presenting this challenging and compelling quest. I feel a sense of commitment each day to my fellow writers.  

There are always discoveries to be made in the words, phrases, ideas and optimism residing in the attitudes of our fellow citizens of the world. To hear of common experiences, to hear of wonder and curiosity, to hear of empathy, excitement, sadness and joy connects and sustains us all.

Write on, fellow slicers!

‘Do it all with a willing heart

Every stop is a place to start.’

Jimmy Buffett

La Vie Dansante