What Does Writing Mean To You?

Summary

Philip Writes reflects on the profound significance of writing in his life, equating it to a sanctuary for his mind and spirit, and a source of comfort, happiness, and hope through the community it provides.

Abstract

In a contemplative piece, Philip Writes delves into the personal meaning of writing, describing it as an essential outlet for his thoughts and a means to think more clearly since joining Medium. Writing has also introduced him to a supportive community, particularly the group known as #TheFineRabble, with whom he has formed close friendships. He emphasizes that writing is not just an intellectual pursuit but a source of emotional solace and joy, which gives him a sense of hope. The article conveys a deep appreciation for the ability to write and the connections it fosters.

Opinions

Writing is a crucial outlet for Philip's thoughts, preventing them from endlessly swirling in his mind.
The act of writing has improved Philip's clarity of thought.
The community aspect of writing, especially through Medium, is highly valued by the author.
Philip has found genuine friendship and support within the #TheFineRabble group on Medium.
Writing is described as a freeing experience for both the mind and spirit.
The article suggests that writing contributes significantly to Philip's emotional well-being, providing comfort and happiness.
Philip believes that writing offers a sense of hope that should always be present in one's life.

What would you Lose if Writing left your Life?

Recently a friend asked me: “Phil, might I ask, but what does writing mean to you? Truly, what it is, just to you.”

I spent the better part of an hour considering her actual question before telling her I needed to think about it. She hadn’t asked “why,” I write, I already wrote a story on that, she asked: “What it is, just to me.” I heard those words as: “If I had to stop writing how would my life change?” because the things that mean the most to you leave the greatest holes when they are gone.

And, there is as good a starting point as any. Not being able to write would leave my mind reeling from thoughts with nowhere to go. That may sound poetic or dramatic but the truth is I think clearer since I joined Medium and part of that is giving thoughts a place to reside that doesn’t involve swirling about in my head.

And of course, the most important thing is the people; Getting feedback, learning from others’ mistakes, and using each other as alibis to procrastinate.

Something else happened though, something I didn’t expect. I made some very good friends and I don’t make close friends easily. I owe a lot to #TheFineRabble — their friendship, advice, and encouragement have become a welcome port of call when my mind needs some friends to relax with.

What does writing mean to me?: It means I’ve found where my mind and my spirit can roam freely and enjoy the company of other-like spirits. It’s a path through life that I deigned to take and now, I have found it again. Writing brings Comfort and Happiness to me from so many senses and directions that it lends itself to a kind of Hope that we should never be without.