A Reading Writer’s 2-Year Journey

Posted on by areadingwriter

WARNING: This is a loooong post!

It has been eight years since I dreamed of having a blog. Something I can call my own. Honestly, I have fears of bashers and grammar Nazis. People who might critique my write-ups. People who might oppose my opinions. Yes, it took me those long years to have the courage to publish my thoughts, my views and my what-not’s. Now it will be all available for the viewing and reading netizens. I am now ready for either praises or rejections, for either wow! or boo!, for anything that this blogosphere has in store for A Reading Writer like me.

“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” – Maya Angelou, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

Now my agony has ended.

—

Two years ago, the post above titled Agony had been the first published piece in A Reading Writer. Looking back, I was like a brave, excited child dipping her toes in a cool yet fun swimming pool for the first time. Months after I posted several book reviews, knew some book bloggers, the excitement waned. After posting 36 posts in September 2014, the following months were almost left in vain.

Why?

Maybe because life happened. Or maybe because I lost the first splash of joy. Maybe like a tireless child blogging seemed not the wonderland that I thought it was. Instead of making it a regular hobby, I posted every now and then. Right until its first anniversary, I only have 100 followers!

Maybe because A Reading Writer for its first year existed, but it is not breathing yet.

Then came September 2015 which has been the turning point of this blog, and my writer life.

Turning Point

It was September 07, 2016. Writing 101’s first day asked: Why Do I Write? And my answer is:

Writing is like breathing with words.

Since then, that line has been engraved in my heart and mind. And Writing 101 made me embrace it, tight.

Because of Writing 101, I wrote my FIRST EVER flash fiction titled Seasons. I was in high school when I used to write stories through scripts, but after that, I forgot doing it and then! Geez. The excited kid in me was jumping up and down after I wrote that piece. 🙂

And I think it served as a wake-up call for me that, hey, I think I can write, creatively!

Seasons was followed by I think three or more fictions and it was all because of the support of these bloggers (SHOUT-OUT to my former W101 classmates!) :

My first Writing 101 has been AWESOME so I joined again the following month! 😀

And I am glad I did! Not just because I was able to practice writing but most of all because I met mooooore GREAT writers like:

BUT most especially… it was October 2015 when I met some special writers who have been my CONSTANT supporters and my DEAREST friends: 

(So October will be our first year anniversary guys! 😀

Road to Poetry

The first two Writing 101 courses have opened the doors of flash fictions for me. So because my writing fingers were jittery, I followed it up with Writing 201: Poetry and another Writing 101: Poetry!

I have come across several talented, encouraging and inspiring writers which include:

I have written poetic love letters (blushing) when I was in college but I bid goodbye to my poetic pen since I graduated. Real-life is harsh. But slowly, beginning October 2016, my poetic pen and my freshly awaken writer-self had a reunion. (And they never parted since then.)

People Behind The Blog

Some might think that just because I am the writer of this blog means I am the sole person behind its two-year journey. But I am not. Yes, I write and schedule posts. But behind A Reading Writer is a group of people who’ve been the keys on who A Reading Writer have become.

I know this is a looong post already but I don’t want to close this without mentioning again those who remained.

The writers I admire who take time to comment and read my work:

Most especially… my ever-CONSTANT readers who try to read each and every post. Those who never fail to tell me what is right and what is wrong. My own little circle of the most talented writers/poets who I am proud to call my PERSONAL bestfriends and sisters and brother…

…you guys are just the most beautiful souls!

I admire your works but more so your souls.

YOU are the reason why I write.

You are like the carbon dioxide that I inhale to create my oxygen-words.

I love you from the bottom of my chubby heart. ❤

On Ending a Writer’s Agony

Two years after I first posted for A Reading Writer, I think my writer-heart still keeps a box of agony. As Maya Angelou said: “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”

I think my muse is still keeping tons of untold stories, so yes, the agony is still there. But now I can handle it better.

Because I am within a lovely community, and I know my heart’s story is written by He.

—

CHEERS, everyone!!!

P.S. I’m done writing the 100 poems for my debut book! 😀

❤

Published by areadingwriter

I read because I write. | I write because I read.

146 thoughts on “A Reading Writer’s 2-Year Journey”

  1. Congrats on your 100 poems for your book. Congrats on two-years blogging my friend. And thank thank you for the mention. I was very touched. You’re a sweet person 💗🌸

    Liked by 5 people

  2. I am so elated that you admire my work, the feeling is very much mutual! You keep me on the edge of my seat or smiling softly or trying to hold back tears. You do not convey just stories, but emotions. You are incredible. Congratulations on this milestone, may you have many more😊

    Liked by 3 people

  3. Wow…this is so beautiful…i am honestly honored to have been part of your journey…its a great pleasure to have found you too …keep writing and keep inspiring and touching other writers ..

    Go…go…go…

    Congratulations…glad to have met you..

    Liked by 4 people

  4. Rose! Congratulations on your debut book AND on your 2 year anniversary! Bloggiversary? Anyway! Lots of exclamations! I wish you many more happy years of writing and success with your writing, you’re making the world a better place by doing so 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

  5. Wow what an accomplishment! Congrats on writing 100 poems and congrats on your 2 year blogiversary (is that a real word?) Take a bow! You have touched so many and I feel blessed to have stood in your light as I read your shining words.
    And yesterday was my blog’s 1 year anniversary 🙂 The blog bug took a year longer to bite me than it did for you 😉 There’s something about the end of summer which brings out the inner blogger in a woman eh? 😉
    I hope you are having a wonderful weekend my friend!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. YAY! Thank you very much dear Mel! Just bowed, there! 😀 😀 😀
      And CONGRATULATIONS on the first anniversary of your majestic In Media Res blog!!! 😀 😀 😀 It’s your turn to take a bow now! 😀
      I think yes! I think there is something so creative when natures undresses after a festive summer and get ready to a gloomy and bloody fall! 😀 😀 😀

      Thank you dearest Mel!! I hope you had a lovely weekend, too!

      Liked by 1 person

  6. This is amazing! I had so many similar thoughts before I started blogging a year back. I’m glad to have found your page and have interacted with you. Best wishes for your book 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

  7. I’m standing up, clapping so hard my hands hurt, tears further blinding my dimming old eyes. This is a wonderful, wonderful WOW-Post, Rosey. You’ve come so far, so fast–and I see only more and greater success ahead for you. Congrats on Everything, and especially the book of poems–it will be stellar! You have a humble and generously loving heart, and talent overflowing–how could the world not love you? ❤ ❤ ❤

    Liked by 2 people

    1. awwwww. Thank you very very very much, dear sister! I can imagine you doing just that. It’s like my sister is just so proud of me!!! Thank youuuuuuuuu!!! ❤ You are equally lovable, sissy! If not we won't be sister. 😉 Thank youuu!

      Like

  8. I love your heartfelt writing! You are a very warm hearted person too. So great reading about your beginnings! I’m thrilled to be a part of your blogging adventures, if not for long! Happy to have found your inspirational blog. Happy anniversary to you!!!

    Liked by 2 people

  9. Awww, I’m honored to be counted as one of your closest friends. I’ve been lucky to meet some wonderful people through you, like Maria, and I never thought I’d be included in a group like this, among so much amazing talent. Thank you so much! I met Mah through Instagram and she’s become like a best friend to me. The time I’ve come to know you has reminded me of that and the strength of our relationship only continues to grow. I’ve always looked forward to your words, and I’ve come to know you better than I hoped for. You’re a true friend and I’m the lucky one to know you.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Awwww. You are one humble, but very talented woman! ❤ Thank youuu dear Sarah! Being one of your truest friends will always be an honor to me! Your strength as a woman and as a person, your talent as a writer, you humbleness, geez, I have a lot to emanate from you love! so thank you! ❤ You make me better. ❤

      Liked by 1 person

  10. Wow, rosema first accept my heartiest congratulations for this beautiful day and I pray for many wonderful days andhead. Writing the names of all these bloggers really matters.
    , it shows your honesty and shows your down to earth nature. You feel proud to be a part of this community and we all here really love reading your work. I’m not a regular commentator on your blog, but reading your posts is always a soothing experience for me 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thank you very much dear Madeeha!!! 🙂
      I guess I don’t usually post a long post but you guys deserve to be mentioned! You’ve been really helpful and you honed this blog with me! Thank you for reading my works! ❤ You may not be regular but still, I love it when you are around! ❤ Thank youuu, Madeeha!

      Liked by 1 person

  12. Wow Rosema, what a wonderful and heartwarming post. Your writing and blog is an example of what it takes to have a successful blog, great writing and poetry but also hard work, determination and a human touch. The time you take to comment and reach out to other bloggers is much appreciated. Thank you for including me in the wonderful blogging community you have fostered. I am both honoured and humbled. Keep up the fantastic work 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

  13. Congratulations, Rosema, on your two-year anniversary, and your upcoming book! I’m glad I got a chance to meet you here on WordPress, and to have the honor of collaborating with you. You’re such a sweet person and deserve the best. ❤

    Liked by 2 people

    1. YAY! Thank you dear Josslyn! 🙂 🙂 🙂 Please know it is a delight too to have met you here! ❤ You are such a talented writer and collaborating with you is my one great honor, too! ❤ Thank you and good luck on your book, too!!!!

      Liked by 1 person

  14. Rosema!!!
    This is not only amazing but also wonderful. It is a spirit like how I have, that has made me read this post almost twice, I just loved it Dear.
    First let me Congratulate you on completing your 100 poems, I only wish it shall bring laurels to YOU.
    I think I have completed about 18 months of blogging and have had the same experience like you in this Blog World. I come across so many goody goody friends from all over the world; the love and encouragement you receive is marvelous. Your mention of my name in your list of “People Behind the Blog” makes me feel as if one more star to my shoulder belt.
    I can understand how thoughtful you have been in creating and writing this particular post. Do not think it is Loooooong it is Right and Apt. Yes I believe bloggers tend to go away if they find the post longer. But I personally feel it is nothing like how you are feeling. I can understand the efforts and pains you have taken to mention all who have been of support to you. Remembering them all is your gratefulness. My Pats to you on that.
    50% of the ones names you have mentioned above are known to me and they we are in our own following; each others. Its is so good you have posted it on Sunday and today being weekend I am also somehow free. But many do not respond as weekends are for leisure time and they are away from blogging.
    I shall go to all the bloggers you have mentioned and say Hi to them.
    This post shall be of inspiration to many and shall spread more love among ourselves.
    Let sharing be the order of the day and a modern concept of Building a Society full of LOVE.
    CHEERS ROSEMA!!!
    My Fondest Regards,
    Shiva

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Oh Shiva. ❤ I am more than touched while reading your comment! 🙂 Thank youuu very very very much for being part of this journey. I believe our friends will attest that your generous words touched them in so many ways too. Thank you and good luck on your blog too! Let's write on! ❤

      Liked by 1 person

  16. Congratulation on completing the poems for your book. That is great!
    This was a lovely post, Rosema, so sweet and heartfelt. I wish you many more happy blogging years. Have a blessed evening. (See, I remembered, you go into night as I go into day. 🙂 )

    Liked by 1 person

  21. Wow! Congratulations! 100 poems! That’s so awesome! What a wonderful heartfelt post! Thank you soo much for the mention! You’re an incredible writer! Whenever I read your posts, the emotions in your words are so tangible! All the very best, always! And may you have many more milestones!! 😊❤

    Liked by 1 person

  22. Congratulations Rosema. Thanks very much for the mention. I’m so happy that you faced your fears and started blogging. I have never met a grammar nazi here yet! Your post reminded me that I too am on year 2. It doesn’t seem possible.

    Liked by 1 person

  24. Congratulations on your two years, hun! ❤ I feel you on this, before I started on IG and later on here, I had that same agony. It’s still here, so much to say… and I love that sometimes I don’t have to, because I read myself in someone else’s words and the agony dies down a bit… this small connections make me happy. Thanks, luv. 💕😘

    Liked by 1 person

  25. This was so worth the read Rosema! Happy 2 year anniversary and hears to many more years together 😄. Also, wow and congratulations on completion of your poems, that is a milestone. Wish you all the best and great success with it. May the writing ink never depart from you.. write on

    Liked by 1 person

  26. Sister, I have no doubt your muses are singing to you, encouraging you to hold your pen (or fingers on the keyboard). Getting to know you through the blogosphere has been a a privilege, a treat. Your candor and warmth are an inspiration. The world has more hope because you take part in it. Congratulations for how far you’ve come.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Oh wow. Thank you dear brother! This journey will not be as wise and as fruitful without you. Flattery and sweetness aside, I mean them. ❤ So thank you for being one of my biggest influencers brother! 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  27. Oh my dear Rosema, what can I say? The love and gratitude is mutual. I’m glad to have stumbled onto your blog, and I’m glad to have maintained a friendship all this time 🙂 Congratulations on the 100 poems!! You can definitely count on a supporter in me. Here’s to this exciting road you’re on, my friend. May the words never stop flowing ❤

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Awww. Thank you my equally sweet Jade!!! I got to know when we stumbled upon each other soon! HAHA
      And I am blessed that you stayed! 😀
      Yay! Thank you for the vote of support. After I wrapped all the 100 poems I felt the nerves! Like.. so what’s our next step words? HAHA
      You make me more confident love! Thank youuuuu!!!

      Liked by 1 person

  28. Congrats my dear! Sorry I havent been very prsent in the blogosphere those last months, but I ve been missing your posts and will be back soon. I am very touched of the mention, salamat very very much ❤

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Oh dear Estelea! No apologies needed! Those little chitchats of ours are treasures for me! I love how you love my little country and how you are so good in writing wise and observant words! 😀 Thank you for being part of my journey dear! Salamat!

      Liked by 1 person

  29. Congrats dear on your 100 poems and your two years blog anniversary; this is just the beginning because you are destined to greatness my friend. You have endless talent and creativity leaving us all eager to read your posts each time.
    PS: I really miss writing 101 =(

    Liked by 1 person

  31. Rosema, a BIG congrats on your two years blog anniversary and congrats on your 100 poems. If your book is going to be available through Amazon, then I’ll definitely purchase a few copies for myself and my writing friends. This post was lovely to read and thank you for the shout out. Keep going, Rosema. You’ve come so far and you still have lots more to offer. ❤

    Liked by 1 person

      1. You’re utmost welcome, Rosema! It’s people like you who inspire me to go on when I feel like I’ve lost the will to. May God continue to bless you. ❤ ❤

        Liked by 1 person

  33. Congratulations, Rosema dear! You have come a really long way and as a friend and your reader, I’m really proud of you and also I’m proud to have been mentioned on your list of blogger friends 🙂
    Thanks a lot for the kind mention and all the very best for the coming year on A Reading Writer. For me, you are a really good writer because you write from your heart and soul and that’s the best way to write. ❤
    All the very best dear and loads of hugs for reaching this beautiful milestone 🙂 ❤

    Liked by 1 person

    1. awww. I feel so honored to read your lovely and generous words, dear Heena! You deserve the mention, love. You are one of the reasons why the journey has been worth it! ❤ ❤ ❤
      I admire you, remember that! Looking forward to reading your novel too! 😉 ❤
      Huuuuuuuuuuuuuugs!

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Pleasure is all mine, Rosema. I can’t wait to see your words in print 🙂
        And thanks for all your kind words. You’re a great writer and it gives me immense joy to have you as a good friend ❤
        You have a lot of potential, Rosema dear, and I wish you all the best for this beautiful journey of writing you've embarked upon.
        Please know that I'm always there for you (if ever there is a day when you need me.)
        Have a glorious day dear 🙂 ❤

        Liked by 1 person

      2. Oh dear. You will never know how much your words mean to me, dear Heena! ❤ They are like gifts! ❤ ❤ ❤ Thank you very very very much!
        I wish you nothing but the best too!!!
        Cheers!

        Liked by 1 person

  34. Awweee.. Dearie!! Happy anniversary… ❤❤❤ You deserve all the compliments and all the love from your readers– from all of us. I think they’ve said more than enough and I echo all their words. Just know that we’re all here looking forward to your untold stories and, of course, your debut book. I’m so happy for you!! I’m one of the blessed bloggers to have found a very good friend in you. Thank you, dearie!!! Love you to the blogosphere and back! :*

    Liked by 1 person

    1. AAWWW! Thank you, dearie Maria! You are one of the blessings why that book is slowly coming into reality. Without you guys I will never have a book, will ever find my road to poetry! Geez. I am getting melo-dramatic! 😀 Thank youuu!! And our friendship-anniv is coming soon! 😀 😀 😀 YAY!

      Lots of love to youuuuu!!!

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Awwee.. you’ve always had that poetic soul deep within your heart, dearie. I guess, we all just helped you awaken it. ❤ You're most welcome, dearie. YAY! That makes me look forward to October. XD

        Liked by 1 person

  37. Very high praise indeed! Just got back from vacation and this was the first post I saw. Thank you for including in this list. I love your writing keep going! Looking forward to reading the posts I’ve missed while I was away. 😉

    Liked by 1 person

  40. This may come in a little bit late, but congratulations to you!! 🙂 I hope that you can keep the fire burning, let the world and your experiences add fuel to it. Your works are always promising and engaging. I can only hope to find more time to leisurely read the ones I have missed.

    Congratulations again, Rosema! 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

  41. For someone new to blogging, your post is very encouraging. As I explore this platform more, I’m growing to love the community and this post validates that feeling.

    I’m so glad you decided to do this blog and got over the negative thoughts you had before. ❤

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hi! I am more than glad to know you read this old post! And i am more than glad to know you are somehow touched by my journey. I wish you well. Keep exploring. Blogging can let you know yourself more in ways you can never imagine. 😉

      Liked by 1 person

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