Here I am, entering the blog world. With hope and fear combined. How does one start blogging? I've decided not to treat it as a journal, because a)I already have a journal, b) who really wants to hear EVERYTHING I have to say, c) that's what facebook is for! (I only wish that last comment were completely sarcastic.) One of my best friends suggested I start a blog and I've had a few people agree with her, but I wanted to come up with a topic for which I have a real passion. Of course, there are the obvious ones in my life - musical theatre, shopping, shoes, cats, men - but I wanted it to be more specific. Something that I can somehow learn from as well as discuss with others in my life perhaps. Otherwise, what's the point?
Let's not bother with my recent sob story, except to say that it has led me to a constant comfort in my life as I've gotten older: quotations.
Sometime in my early 20's, I found myself looking at books of quotations at Barnes and Noble (cue, plug of book store!) and came upon a book that has really been there for me in times of distress, excitement, fear, hope - all the biggies in life. It's not The Bible. It's not The Secret. It's not He's Just Not That Into You. Not that those aren't all valid, lovely inspirations, they just weren't MY inspiration. For me, it was The Harper Book of Quotations that really resonated with me. It's your typical coffee table book that one would leave out for guests to peruse at will and probably never actually read. But for me, I have turned to it for examples, lessons, strength and encouragement. I've been known to buy this book for people and highlight quotes that made me think of them, or their situation, whatever the event was in their life that prompted a gift.
Lately I've been trying to figure out WHY I love quotes so much. I mean, why do we ever like the things we like? But I think I've finally articulated it properly. Aside from the inspiration, the genius, the simplicity in so many quotations - they comfort me. Because they show me I'm not alone in whatever I'm going through. Whether it's good or bad, it's human. And other people have gone through the exact same things - different times, different places, different circumstances, but the same feelings. And I find that so comforting. Safety in numbers, you know? And doesn't comfort just feel so good. . .
I have many favorite quotes. They change and expand largely based on what is going on in my life. We seek out what we need, and I am certainly no exception to that rule. Rather than just post my favorite, I'm going to post thoughts on what pertains to my life on any given day/week/whatever the frequency of this blog becomes.
Tune in if you like quotes. If you like figuring out how they apply to you, or those around you. I don't claim to be an expert, but I'd like to think that my combination of career, sensitivities, yoga, therapy, humor, intelligence, and love offer me some sort of interesting angle on this. And if not, well, don't read, right? My motivation for starting this is largely selfish. Not to preach, but to share. If somebody else happens to enjoy what I share, then everybody wins!
Thanks for reading. . . there will be more.
