About this time last year, when I first
began writing and designing my blog, I did so with the intention of
tackling controversial topics that other people might not be eager or
able to write about. I wanted to say the things that many others were
thinking, but no one else was willing to say. In the beginning, my
plan was to not even tell my friends and family that I was the one
writing the articles, so that I could protect myself behind a mask of
anonymity, without fear of personal attacks or judgment. What I
didn't realize at that point however, is that without the support of
your friends and family; people who will read your articles even if
they suck, it is next to impossible to increase the readership of
your blog. So begrudgingly, I revealed to my family and social media
friends that I was the author, in order to grow my page.
In some ways, I regret it. I sometimes
wish I had remained anonymous so that I could truly speak my mind
with no fear of repercussions. But at the same time, I believe it has
in some ways helped me personally to grow and face my fears of
condemnation. The first time I posted an article that made reference
to sex, I must have sat there with my finger hovering above the
button on my mouse for 20 minutes, debating whether to hit “publish”,
worrying about who would read it and how they might judge me for it.
But in the end, I decided that I shouldn't be worried about their
opinions as long as I am being honest. Sure, I've offended some
people. And out of the 10+ articles I've posted, and almost 3,500
page views, I can count on one hand how many times my family members
have actually shared my posts, but it's okay. I didn't start my blog
to make friends or to make people feel warm and fuzzy. I created my
blog to help initiate the difficult conversations that make people
uncomfortable in this world that is offended by everything.
