Talking to myself

Welcome to my world!

You know, folks, a lot of times when I write these random philosophical thoughts down, I'm talking to myself, more than anyone else. No, not just because so few people actually read what I've written. Rather, it's because I'm constantly messing up my life and therefore, constantly working on my character, on paper for all the world to see, should they so choose.

My Dad was big on character.

(Incidentally, he also was a character. Or at least that's how some people might describe him. In addition to having amazing integrity, he was frequently called a stubborn old coot, a penny-pincher and if you were my Mom, well, he was her Herbie, as she referred to him in her poetry.)

Anyway, back to the subject at hand, one of the best things I learned from the actions of my Dad is that good character is not only vital to happiness, it's the most prominent thing that people truly remember you for when you're gone.

So, when I learn a lesson that helps me build my character, or am reminded of it, I write about it so it sticks better. In other words, these little seemingly “preachy” posts and comments I write are nothing of the kind. Rather, they are a form of self discipline/self improvement. Know what I mean?

Folks, please don't be offended when I express my beliefs. Please don't look at my attempts to work out my life on paper as an insult. I'm usually talking more to myself than to anyone else. I'm not a social person. I'm a loner. In other words, it's not about you, it's about me.

No offense intended, but I have enough on my plate and enough of my own mistakes to correct without worrying about yours. That's your department, not mine. I'm not in charge of you. You are in charge of you. And thank goodness for that. I don't have the energy to be a control freak.

Even when I speak of the state of the world and how it could be improved (in my opinion) it's more about me making the changes I wish to see. Although, you're certainly welcome to join me if you agree.

Ha!

And while yes, I would certainly be happy if everyone in the world made more of an effort to live a more compassionate life, I realize that we all have to make our own choices. Following that thought, please also realize that freedom of speech is a two way street. By denying me the right to free expression, regardless of whether you agree with me, you deny yourself as well.

I speak my mind on paper. It's kind of my thing. Thus, the whole writer label. But it's completely up to you whether you listen or agree. Because I really am just talking to myself and/or taking notes. It really isn't directed at you. It's just that my “works” are public, due to the fact that I write for a living.

And sometimes, I direct my thoughts at “you” just like those who keep journals direct their thought to “Dear Diary.” It's nothing personal, folks.

I'm not afraid for people to know my naked inner thought process. We all have one, you know. It's just that not all people think out-loud, without a filter and on paper for all the world to see. So, of course, people get upset. They're not used to raw, unprocessed thoughts.

Look at it like this, it's like you get to read my diary. And I let you. Because honestly, I really don't care if people know the real me, craziness, imperfections and all. Never have particularly fond of presenting a watered down, strained smooth version of myself anyway.

This is who I am. I don't expect anyone to be exactly like me. But please also do not expect me to think like you. Because I'm not you. I'm me. And this is my blog, not yours. Therefore, it reflects my thoughts and opinions, not yours.

It's really written for me. You just get to snoop around in it. Is that cool or what?