I’m one of those - flummoxed by the prejudice by the many purveyors of opinions and righteousness on all sides. And definitely own my opinions. Fortunately blessed with very close friendships and community. But this inspired me to resurrect one of my old essays. Good for you Nicci, for doing these exploration!
Thank you for your thoughts, Reena. I'd love to read your resurrected essay. Please tag me! Grateful to hear so many other writers have found their people. Maybe I will, too. ❤️
Jeannie, thank you for your vulnerability and openness! I have often felt I belong on a surface level, but used to say people went through a "Sami phase". I felt that when they really got to know me, I didn't belong. I have found a way to make space for myself, even when I am the only one who represents my voice. It doesn't always work, but finding the people who are willing to open their circle, and give me a place at the table, has been a gift. I hope you also find yours. Your voice is needed and I appreciate you sharing it.
Alright, well. First. You’re always welcome at my table. We have a lot to talk about, but those conversations will be nuanced and probably never involve Big Name Publishers or literary knowledge. 😂 Second, I’m going to cross post this very soon so those who enjoyed my post about “You People” can enjoy this one as well. 💖
Yes I know I’m reading something you wrote 2 years ago, but that’s what I do when I come across someone I think has something worth while to say. Read the things that they started with. This especially resonates with me. I’ve always gone with the axiom, “If you never join anything, they can’t make you go to meetings “. It has been a rare experience for me to feel seen or to be understood. I’ve been on Substack about a year, but my writing style needs the reader to invent some of the story themselves. Anyway, I love your writing, and feel a kinship with you. Jack
Well, Jack, your comment today arrived at an opportune time for me, since I am winding down the first day at this writing conference, and I just don’t feel like I belong here. Everyone I’ve met has an MFA or PhD, and they all were shortlisted for this award or won some accolade. I feel small here. So hearing from you that you feel a kinship with my writing, even from the beginning of when I started out here, really matters a great deal. Every one of my Substack friends keep me going and showing up. I’m glad you are here and that you found a connection with this post.
Enjoyed that - thank you Nicci and Jeannie!
I’m one of those - flummoxed by the prejudice by the many purveyors of opinions and righteousness on all sides. And definitely own my opinions. Fortunately blessed with very close friendships and community. But this inspired me to resurrect one of my old essays. Good for you Nicci, for doing these exploration!
Thank you for your thoughts, Reena. I'd love to read your resurrected essay. Please tag me! Grateful to hear so many other writers have found their people. Maybe I will, too. ❤️
They're out there Jeannie. No doubt you will. All the best!
Jeannie, thank you for your vulnerability and openness! I have often felt I belong on a surface level, but used to say people went through a "Sami phase". I felt that when they really got to know me, I didn't belong. I have found a way to make space for myself, even when I am the only one who represents my voice. It doesn't always work, but finding the people who are willing to open their circle, and give me a place at the table, has been a gift. I hope you also find yours. Your voice is needed and I appreciate you sharing it.
Samantha, this was so perfectly stated:
"I have found a way to make space for myself, even when I am the only one who represents my voice."
Thank you for your vulnerability and for your encouragement here. ❤️
Thanks for writing that :) Keep at it :)
Hmmm never heard of human library
You should check out the website for Fort Wayne!
Alright, well. First. You’re always welcome at my table. We have a lot to talk about, but those conversations will be nuanced and probably never involve Big Name Publishers or literary knowledge. 😂 Second, I’m going to cross post this very soon so those who enjoyed my post about “You People” can enjoy this one as well. 💖
Well that is incredibly generous of you, Nicci. That does not happen to me often, so it's a delightful surprise!
I already have one planned for next week so I’ll schedule yours for the week after next.
Yes I know I’m reading something you wrote 2 years ago, but that’s what I do when I come across someone I think has something worth while to say. Read the things that they started with. This especially resonates with me. I’ve always gone with the axiom, “If you never join anything, they can’t make you go to meetings “. It has been a rare experience for me to feel seen or to be understood. I’ve been on Substack about a year, but my writing style needs the reader to invent some of the story themselves. Anyway, I love your writing, and feel a kinship with you. Jack
Well, Jack, your comment today arrived at an opportune time for me, since I am winding down the first day at this writing conference, and I just don’t feel like I belong here. Everyone I’ve met has an MFA or PhD, and they all were shortlisted for this award or won some accolade. I feel small here. So hearing from you that you feel a kinship with my writing, even from the beginning of when I started out here, really matters a great deal. Every one of my Substack friends keep me going and showing up. I’m glad you are here and that you found a connection with this post.