What is Writing?

Answer: something different for everyone.

Writing. We’ve all done it. We’ve all had to do it. We’ve all read things that were written.

But what is writing?

Of course, it’s the process of putting words down in a certain order in order to communicate a specific thought or idea. But on a broader, more spiritual level, what process and purpose does writing serve?

For me, it’s giving thought to the world.

For so long, I have stumbled along in life overflowing with ideas and opinions. My conversations would turn into miniature rants about politics, the future of fast casual dining, or life in general. Unable to control my anxiety, it manifested in impulsive behavior — vocalizing thoughts that came to my mind that I was excited about, and with no where to put it, my conversations and human contact became filled with fleeting thoughts.

It was only recently that I learned that the whole time, what I was really seeking was to give my thinking — and my thoughts — to the world. And without writing in my toolkit, the only way I was coping with this passion was by engaging in invigorating intellectual discussions that allowed my ideas to come to the fore.

When I picked up the pen (or rather, began to type), I found what has been missing for me for so long — an outlet to give my thinking to the world. A way to reach others minds, to change the way they think, to push them to grow. To help them.

Writing is the bridge between the imagination that flows in the mind — the constant ideas and iterative thought processes — and the real world. It’s the place where one can unload any and all thoughts, vocalizations, and ideas without requiring someone to listen to them, validate them, or discuss with them. In the world that one creates with writing, they are the speaker and the listener. The creator and the consumer. The one in power, and the one following. The one giving a gift, and the one receiving it.

To me — writing is a medium of self expression and a way to connect with the world outside of my mind. It is spiritual, imaginative, creative, and deepening. It’s a passion I never knew I had, but am so grateful to have found.

To me — writing is giving thought to the world.