Why Write? Because we can!

Why write? I guess the answer to our question could be as simple as my title--"Because we can". First and foremost, I must admit my pride in being a member of the species that can write. What would I be doing if I couldn't? I'd be completely reliant upon my big-mouth instead, which is not comforting or a feasible means of communication (at least for me anyway). I once was told not to sing anymore because I had developed vocal damage from all my years of strain and that one day, if I continued, I would wake up without a voice. (I never listened and I'm just fine--although I've lost an octave or two). However, the experience forced me (and still does) to think about not being able to communicate or express myself creatively. That notion is a nightmare--it frightens me more than death. Reading, writing, speaking and art are second to none on my "favorite things to do" list--they are my attempt at redefining my reality and throughout the many trials and tribulations of my life, were the most tangible methods I had of holding on. Writing is one of the reasons I survived.

Over the course of my collegiate career (which at this point is probably the only one I'll ever have), I've often wondered about the people who do not possess the skills or knowledge to write. It saddens me to know that for some, it simply isn't an option--an option that I consider vital in our survival as a species. This is the reason why I want to become a teacher; to ensure that others can the find joy in writing (or at the very least, a measure of survival in this complicated society) that I have been privileged to receive.

Human's are born with the cognitive capacity to communicate by speaking, reading and writing for a reason. Our species has this advanced level of communication because we have been designed to accept the responsibility of caring for ourselves and the rest of the planet, while we survive on it. This is not a simple task by any means. As a people, we thrive on relating to one another, channeling our emotions, organizing our thoughts, entertaining others, documenting important information, sharing ideas, and advancing our race. We have sophisticated cognitive and emotional capabilities that can only be shared through an effective communication process--a process that requires more detail and accuracy than a pattern of speech or body language. While we all have the innate ability for speech at birth, speech is not always a reliable source of information because we have to rely solely on memory. As we well know, memory can be distorted. Therefore, we need to have a back-up plan. Writing just happens to make an excellent "plan-B."

The written form of communication was developed as a way of fine-tuning and recording our communication process to ensure detail and accuracy. It also provided an alternative method of human relation, entertainment, creativity, providing information for survival and recording and developing humans into the technologically advanced race that we are today. However, over time, we realized that writing could be used for so much more than a method of survival. We realized our potential for self expression. For some of us, it became a method for mental survival and an outlet for creativity.

For me, there is no better method of escape than in writing--any kind of writing. I'll say that I do love writing music, poetry, stories and creative works better than the hum-drum business letters and college papers that I sometimes have to write. However, I do believe an individual's perspective holds the key to their success as a writer. If a writing assignment can be viewed by the writer as an educational experience, an outlet for pain or anger, a way of avoiding embarrassment through the spoken word, an opportunity to avoid reacting too quickly to a situation, or obtaining or delivering information without time consuming in-person appoinmtents, any type of writing can prove easier and more exciting than other options available. I know writing has saved me from eminent doom on plenty of occasions where my mouth would probably have preceded my reputation. For example, resume's may be boring and difficult for some to master. However, sending one in the mail as opposed to calling the company (first impressions are lasting ones), dressing up (yeah, try ironing dress clothes on short notice), making an appointment, traveling, and inquiring--only to be told that it was a waste of time ("please fill out the application and someone will call you")can be time-consuming, costly and aggravating. Learning to write the resume, while boring and only slightly time consuming, would be the lesser of two evil's.

In addition, while learing to write can at times become a hassle and a phobia (like anything else in life), The good news that I wish to share with my students is that although writing may not be everyone's "cup of tea", it can be easily manipulated and takes only a minimal amount of effort over time. We're not all born writers (at least scientifically). Unlike other life activities, with time and practice anyone can do it, which is why Hellen Keller was such an inspiration. When people tell me that they can't write, they're telling me that they're afraid to write. I only need ask them to write their name on a piece of paper. They look at me like I'm nuts. I tell them that if they can do that, well then congratulations--they are officially a writer!

The reason why many people think they can't or won't write is because they often think there are clear-cut, mandatory requirements and guidelines for becoming a writer or in making the claim that they are one. Once they realize that all they have to do to become a writer is start with their name, it makes the process and creative aspects flow more smoothly. Giving them an assignment that is personally motivating is a sure-fire way of assimilating them into the "experience".

Recently, I was actually privileged to see this theory confirmed. My friend,(who "hates writing" and consistently tells me that she can't) has recently discovered that she too, has talent. After much prompting and a constant effort at making her realize that she needn't compare herself with more "polished" writers, she was able to overcome her mental illness-ehem-I mean fear of criticism, and realize that writing is quite liberal and forgiving--there's always a second chance. So, she gave it a shot. She's been working on her own piece diligently for the past two weeks now, and is nearing the end to her first online story that she will soon share with the world. In fact, she now loves to write--simply because she can.

Does this answer suffice? Hope so...because I was just going to rattle on about all the rest of the reasons that writing is necessary and why I love it so. And I can go on...The rest of you had awesome answers. I had to say something! :)