Wednesday, December 8, 2010

On writing

People blog for different reasons. Some people do it solely for themselves, to process their experiences and document their journeys.

I am not one of those people. While it's true that I gain a lot from my writings, I don't really write for myself.

I write for you.

I write so that people learn what autism is like and what it isn't like. I write to dispel myth and promote truth. I write to clarify and demystify.

That said, my time as a blogger might be coming to and end. For one thing, my meds are making it really, really hard to write. I still enjoy doing it, but I feel like I'm not delivering when it comes to quality, especially. I have 50 followers on this blog, but I'm not really sure that anyone's reading. And if you're not reading, I don't really have a purpose in writing.

If you are here, if I'm wrong, if you do want to read what I have to say, just let me know and I'm happy to oblige. If I'm doing some good through this effort, I want to know it. But if I'm not, it might be time for me to set my keyboard aside.

13 comments:

  1. I'm reading, even if I don't comment much. I so appreciate your voice, your telling of your story, your thoughtfulness about your faith.

    The choice whether or not to keep writing must be your own, of course. But count me among those who would miss your work if you stopped blogging!

    P.S. You also have 57 subscribers via Google Reader -- probably quite a few of those who, like me, don't use the "followers" service.

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  2. I check in from time to time, and am always happy to hear what you have to say.

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  3. I love to read your blog and hope you do keep writing. Of course it is your choice and you should do what is best for you. As a parent of a child with autism, I feel I can see his perspective so much more because of reading your blog.

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  4. Lydia - I think your writing is beautiful, and the insight that it gives me about autism is invaluable. I would love it if you keep on writing. Thank you for all that you wrote so far!

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  5. I read your blog all the time. I have it as a feed so I'm not listed as a follower. The things you write about allow me to think of things in my own life. I don't really comment much because I don't really have anything to say in response to your posts necessarily. You write if/when you want too. It'll show up on my feed and I'll read it.

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  6. Lydia, I am not a follower of your blog but I come and check it daily! You are amazing, and some of the things that you talk about, I see in myself as well. You inspire me and give me hope, as well as ideas and coping strategies. I am definetly getting something from what you write here. It is your choice to stop, and I would understand but it would make me very sad to not be able to read your posts anymore.

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  7. I mean, I'm not you so I guess I can't know for sure, but I have a hunch that writing things down helps you organize your thoughts more than you think. Maybe that's changed since the new meds? Just a thought. It's also good practice for self-reflection and self-figuring out. (Is there a word for that?)

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  8. I read every post! I have a developmentally disabled daughter whose boyfriend is autistic, and know/have known many autistic people who are simply not capable of writing the way you do. You are giving them all a voice. Even hearing your frustrations about what your meds are doing to your creativity etc. is extremely helpful to those of us labeled, haha, "normal." I would be very sad if you stopped writing.

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  9. I love your writing! I don't check everyday 'cause I just don't have time. But I read EVERY post. I LOVE your writing.

    I have a 6 year daughter with autism. And from reading your blog, I believe she may be your "mini-me". :o)

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  10. lydia, i'm grateful for you and your words. you give me hope. please keep writing.

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  11. Lydia, I always read what you have to say. Unfortunately I don't get to check in daily these days but I do check in.

    I truly believe the decision about blogging is totally up to you.

    Personally I have gained so much insight and knowledge from your writing and I know that Mr. E also checks in here and is appreciative of your efforts.

    So, again, it is up to you. Maybe you'll decide to post less frequently or give it up totally. Medications can really play havoc on one's abilities.

    We support what ever decision you make.

    Mrs. E

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  12. Like Chloe's mom, I check in frequently, but not every day. I think you are a beautiful writer, but if you continue it should be because you enjoy it.

    It is definitly our treat to read your thoughts though.

    Supporting you and respecting whatever decision you make.

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  13. Lydia,
    I check your blog nearly every day. As the mother of a 4 year old son with autism, I gain so much insight from your writings. Of course, it must be your choice whether to continue to blog or not, but I certainly hope that you will choose to continue blogging.

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