Can I just start by saying that receiving an email that says “Someone is now following you” made me reflect on the dichotomy that has kept me from sharing what it is I need to be sharing here? The alternative being the current watered-down version for fear of who might be reading. I’ve never been one to truly worry about being judged by random strangers. We’re talking about a woman who wrote about some pretty self-incriminating subject matter back in the day, and had no qualms about it either. But the difference then was that my readers were, for the most part, disconnected from my everyday life. And while I appreciated being able to share my writing on my personal Facebook page, I realized that that audience wasn’t entirely appropriate. Taking a cue from my favorite blogger: Narcissist’s Blog, I started my own Facebook page, then stripped away most, if not all, evidence of who I am. For those whom I’ve invited here personally? I have no problem sharing with you what I intend to share in the future – you know me. Anyone who joins the ranks outside of that circle of trust, I will include wholeheartedly.
So why all the effort to slip behind the curtains? My stories need to be read… not me. You will relate. You will find solace in knowing that you’ve been down my road. You will be entertained. You will laugh. You will cry. You will find guidance, reassurance, and the knowledge that you’ve been on both sides of the fence. You will be able to accept who you are and who you come into contact with. But knowing me? That isn’t a requirement or even a recommendation.
Just enjoy.
Anonymously, we find ourselves in our blogs.
I have the same relationship with my blog. Through anonymity, I am able to be perfectly honest with myself about who and what I am. That in turn allows me to look at myself from a different perspective, and the feedback from readers gives me a spring board from which to dive into my own neuroses. It’s therapy through typing, self-exploration through sharing.
I love your work. I’ll be reading.
I really appreciate your response! I still struggle with the decision to go completely anonymous (as I’m sure you can tell from my picture). There’s part of me that feels like I should be able to face myself without hiding behind a curtain. I’m sure I’ll slip back and forth – just for kicks. I’m glad you’ve joined the ranks.