Page 37 - November 2020 Voices

their views in favor of mine, or anyone else’s. I do with, a journal allows me to brainstorm at the
encourage everyone to listen with an open mind
to what others have to say. If you disagree, do so
in an agreeable manner. Wait a minute, I hear
you thinking; isn’t this column about writing?
Yes, it is. So if you’re feeling particularly angry,
tense, or passionate over one side or another of
the election, or an issue, write about it. Write in
a journal, vent at your keyboard, write to your
Congresswoman; or even write an article or
non-fiction piece explaining your point of view.
Just Write. (see what I did there?)
Here’s a tougher question; is writing
relevant to all Toastmasters, not just those who
seek publication? In my humble opionion (or
imho, as it used to be called) the answer is yes. I
mentioned journaling. Psychologists and other
mental health professionals have suggested
keeping a journal for decades; maybe more.
Even if you don’t plan to seek publication, a
journal allows you to marshal your thoughts,
rant, rave, vent, capture memories—all without
making anyone feel attacked, uncomfortable
or the subject of whatever you are feeling and
writing down. For me, and others I have spoken
keyboard. Sometimes just writing my thoughts
about something lead to greater research and
exploration. Perhaps I strengthen my original
thought or change it. If you journal, it gives you a
great leg up when you become famous, and wish
to publish your memoir. Or when a biographer
wants to know more about your past when they
are writing your biography for posterity.
And finally, a question I didn’t ask up front.
What happened to the contest? There were never
many submissions; sometimes zero. Last month I
mentioned that I would drop the pseudo contest
if there weren’t submissions, and there weren’t.
So if you want the contests to return, you need
to bribe, beg, ask and submit.
VOICES! | NOVEMBER 2020 37