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 |  A blog about music from my unique perspective (also a spot for some poetry I’ve written) |
| Tell us about your fondness for WdC. What makes this a wonderful place for writers? Why are you (still) here? You've asked me a question which I could go on at length about… in February '24, I wrote the nearly 5,000 word "My WdC Story"  as a tribute to my adventures here. A lot has happened since then, and it seems like the kind of story I'll have to write a yearly sequel to  The reason why WdC is a wonderful place for writers is mainly one: the people. From top to bottom, from StoryMaster and StoryMistress to the Newbies, the vast majority of people who are here have good intentions and desire to contribute meaningful feedback, stories, poetry, and other works of words. From my very first day here, I've found it to be a highly interactive site, encouraging interpersonal conversation and the exchange of reviews and mentorship. It isn't simply a place to post your work: it's a place to embark on a lifelong journey of developing your writing skills, while at the same time forming lasting relationships with friends from around the globe. The threshold of participation is low for those who can make the investment of time and effort; any promising Newbies are quickly given upgraded memberships from generous fellow members, and I can proudly attest to the fact that one need not pay a single penny of real money to be a full-fledged and well-respected author with complete access to resources and contests. On a more serious and thoughtful note, the question "why am I still here" is one I've personally wrestled with quite recently. As one who involves myself in endless activities and likes to interact with almost everyone I meet, I've stumbled into several awkward and heartbreaking situations here lately. Peculiarly, the various "dramas" only unfolded precisely after my 1st Anniversary celebration was over and I was no longer a Newbie. It seems my motives are being tested; I'm preparing for my journey to becoming a mature and circumspect elder member who is committed for the long haul. If any of the things which I've dealt with recently had happened to me as a Newbie, I probably wouldn't still be here. Basically, I'm here because I love WdC: I love the people, the stories, the shared community. I love the way it provides an escape from the harshness and judgment of the real world and is a safe space for me to be myself: warts, weirdness, quirky fandoms and all. I'm dedicated to gathering my set of four weekly seven-day achievement badges. And I'll admit I treat WdC as a social media site where I struggle to hold myself back from checking in about a million times a day on my phone or hovering around the site when I'm on my iPad! There is always something exciting to do, a project to participate in, a contest entry to work on, a newbie to advise, perhaps a weary friend to offer a shoulder to lean on. As a sheltered introvert still trying to figure out what to do with myself, WdC is the community I was always afraid to have in real life. It challenges me, encourages me to treat others with kindness and respect, introduces me to a diverse network of people, gives me something to look forward to, and has taught me how to plan and multitask. I'm here because I believe it's good for me. I hope Writing.com continues to be a wonderful place for writers for many years to come. Word Count: 574. |
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