by Jared Harding Wilson
They say everyone has a story, but for most of my life, I was content just being a witness to them.
I have always been a “consumer.” I’ve devoured hundreds—likely thousands—of books over the years. From sweeping novels and short stories to raw poetry and insightful blogs, these words have been a lifeline. In some of my darkest moments, having experienced trauma (some of it, admittedly, of my own making), these stories, at times, were sometimes the only thing that inspired me to keep going.
But today marks a shift. This is my 50th post.
It’s taken me a while to get here. I started this blog years ago, but it sat quiet for a long time. Finally finding the rhythm to create rather than just consume has been one of the most cathartic experiences of my life.
A Heartfelt Thank You
To those of you who have visited, liked, commented, and subscribed: Thank you. Your support turned this solitary act of writing into a community. You’ve turned my markedly mix of thoughts into something shared and celebrated.
Why I Write (And Why You Should, Too)
Writing has been healing. It’s helped me process some heavy chapters of my past and find the light in the present. If you are reading this and feeling like you have a story trapped inside you—start writing. Whether it’s a blog, a journal, a book 📕 or a poem, there is a unique power in moving from a spectator to a creator. If my story can inspire just one person to pick up a pen or open a laptop, that is a greater success than any view count.
Life is a Choice
Through the sorrow and the joy, the trials and the triumphs, I’ve learned a vital truth: Happiness is a choice. So is peace. So is resilience. It isn’t just a feeling that hits us; it’s built through our daily actions and the things we choose to do with our time.
What’s Next?
I’m just getting started. I look forward to sharing more with you, including:
• Spiritual Reflections: My thoughts and journey as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
• Hobbies & Handiwork: Wood carving, gardening, and photography.
• The Arts: Deep dives into movies, theater, and my love of literature.
• Adventures: Tales from my travels and the quotes that keep me inspired.
I hope you’ll continue to stick around, comment, and share your own thoughts. Most importantly, I hope you choose a life full of goodness, service to others, and seek happiness.
Onward to post 100!
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Well done. Most of us were probably prolific readers before we were writers and where would writers be without readers?
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😊 Thanks for the validation! I feel heard and surprisingly emotional right now for the supportive comment. Thanks. 🙏
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I love your words about writing to heal. After writing my first memoir, Chosen, my confidence in myself grew. After my second, Untethered, I am able to help other people write their stories, which will eventually be my third book. No title yet–it will come 🙂
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Jane! What a blessing and what a help! Thanks for your kind words. Also, I have to check your two books 📚 out!!!
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Congratulations! Looking forward to reading more of your writing!
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Thanks so much! 👍😇
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I use blogging for the same thing: to process emotions. I try to stay really true, honest, and personal, and usually feel ok posting a blog publicly. Though it’s personal, I wonder if there is some soul out there who would like knowing they’re not the only one with the same kind of personal demons. And posting stuff keeps me even more honest. I love the catharsis of writing. I am glad you want to do more of it, and congratulations on 50 posts!
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Crystal, I must first off say I love your last name! So cool! I have Loves in my family, on my mom‘s side, but not Truloves!
And I agree! Writing for me, has been quite cathartic and healing in so many ways. I do often sometimes feel a little vulnerable, putting a little part of myself online, but I too hope that someone out there going through a struggle may know at least that they’re not alone. And I hope that maybe it will help them to keep going through their own struggles in life. 🙏 Thanks for your kind words, Crystal!
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You are a good reader keep going on 👍
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Thanks, Priti!
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Keep going…I write to heal too! It works. Well done and happy healing!
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Thanks so much, Sandra, for your kind words! Happy Sunday!
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healing is the goal for my writing as well
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I agree. Thanks, Billy Mac!
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