Surprise!

What? A blog post that hasn't been thrown together at the last possible minute to meet the once-monthly quota I've set for myself? Needless to say, I think it's time I revamped this blog.

I wasn't fully satisfied with my last post. In fact, I feel like something has been missing from quite a few of my posts lately. They are all very cheery, and I don't think they are painting the full picture of my life or what this blog is about. Don't get me wrong, there are a lot of things in my life worth celebrating; I would just like my writing to be as honest and realistic as possible. And part of life is struggling and overcoming those struggles.

It's pretty universally accepted that the best writers are those who read. I've been reading some really great blogs lately, with unique styles and interesting topics. This blog is nowhere near that caliber, but that was kind of the point of it all along. I'm the Last Learner, the one surrounded by social media and books and art and blogs and movies and projects that are completely creatively inspiring, and all I'm trying to do is catch up and play in the big leagues.

I will never be able to consume all the Awesome that is out there. I will never watch every great movie or favorite every brilliant tweet. I will, however, contribute to that Awesome in whatever way I can. I will not make excuses for myself. I will not be seasonally creative. Let this blog be actual written documentation that I will try to add to the world's supply of Awesome all year round, even during school when I'm stressed and have "more important" things to do.

It's time for a change in perspective. I am in college to learn what I can from the books I buy and teachers whose salaries I help pay for. But I am also in college to take in inspiration from my surroundings and produce something that may inspire others. Being "smart" and being "creative" are equally important in my book and I'm not doing myself any favors by favoring one over the other.

This blog isn't really meant to be a journal documenting what I've done over the past month; it's more of an exercise book. It's a place to flex my writing muscles, test out ideas, and practice. It's not a burden; it's a key to a locked door. By writing, I can open up the creative part of my mind that I keep shut too often.

I plan on taking on more creative projects and possibly collaborating with others. Collaborative writing is something I haven't really delved into yet (at least not in a very positive light) and I'd like to see what it holds for me. So stick with me because I'm kicking myself into shape!