Stumbling Upon Joy

How Writing My Memoir Brought Me Joy

Hi, y'all! 

Sorry it's been a while, I got tied up with the launch of my memoir! It went better than I could have dreamed, and I'm very grateful for the support and love I received! Thank you all! If you haven't had a chance to pick up a copy, click here to purchase an eBook or paperback. 

I began writing October 29, 2020 and finished my first rough draft on May 31, 2021. It changed my life. I found myself, through writing about myself. I understood and forgave myself. It was an extremely rewarding experience, and allowed me the chance to cope with my trauma in a way I'd yet to explore. I have made breakthroughs in my recovery by writing about the depths of my depravity. And I now understand why my counselors and therapists so often advised journaling.

But you see, I never actually journaled, unless I was locked in a psych ward, hidden in a rehab or living in a sober house. I poured my emotions into a notebook for a few days, then promptly tossed it in the closet. I was far too busy chasing a vodka bottle to continue with such pursuits. And while it brought much relief and was super therapeutic, I never implemented its practice without being confined, without being forced. This was foolish of me to do, y'all. 

So, I am sharing this information with all of you, since it took me a decade to figure it out! Writing our emotions can free us from their power. Once I have written something, I am no longer weighed down by its gravity. I recognize its place, its motivation, and I release myself from it, moving on with my life.

And maybe writing isn't your thing, but I would encourage you to try. Write how you feel; write your dreams and aspirations; write a five year plan; write a to-do list; write your memories. Just write and get it out of you. I've known a couple people who draft emails of their emotions or experiences, then delete them. You could try recording yourself with your phone, and then listen with empathy and sympathy? Anything that relieves the pressure and weight of living in this modern age. Paint a shitty picture, or maybe an epic one, if you're fancy that way!

Writing brought me joy, something we all deserve. It also give me an outlet for my creativity and mental health. I implore you to find something that brings you sheer joy, so that you begin to see it does exist outside of a bottle. Or needle, or pipe. Or Pornhub, whatever it is, y'all! There's joy outside of it, this I know for sure.

Again, thanks for all the support and love! I'm so humbled by this! Please leave a review on Amazon, it helps me so much! Until next time, have fun and happy reading!


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