Voices 2019

After starting this blog, I realised I need to improve my writing. I have always felt that my writing lacks a certain oomph.

Last month, I spotted this on Facebook:-

 

             What captured my attention - emerging or aspiring women writers! 

Should I try it out? I hesitated. A little voice spoke to me inside my head, give it a shot, what do you have to lose? The most they would not select you as a participant. 

Fearing that I may change my mind, I hurriedly copied and edited a few articles that I had earlier wrote on this blog and tried my luck. After submitting, anxiety began to creep in. What did I do?  Once again the little voice said, never mind, it is done. Don’t worry about it.

Last day for submission was on the 2nd October 2019, it would also be the day of the decision. I submitted on the 1st October 2019.

The next day, I received an e-mail with the heading "[VOICES 2019] CONGRATS ! You have been selected". My heart was racing as I read the email. Joy turned to dread and doubt. What have I done? Am I really going?

Setting aside my worries, I made plans to attend the workshop. 

On the day of the workshop, 16 participants from various age, background, ethnicity, religion, shape and size attended.  Strangers, meeting for the first time. 

Many of us were curious about the topics that will be covered during the workshop. We didn’t have a clue.

On the first day, we found out we would do monologues of our own story. The jugular vein of our pain. All real, nothing fictional. On one hand, I was happy as I felt this was what I needed to improve my writing. However, part of me still hesitated as sharing personal stories in front of strangers can be intimidating.  

A safe space was created during the workshop. No judgement, no criticism and no sharing of other people’s story beyond the workshop. There was no male bashing, just real women issues that were highlighted.

From being strangers at the workshop, we became friends by supporting each other, telling our unique experiences. Through laughter and tears, as a group we learn from each other.  

Whether or not I get selected, it doesn’t matter. I will be at Georgetown Literary Festival on the 23rd November 2019 to give support to my fellow participants who challenged themselves and had the courage to tell and share their personal stories.

I saw this quote which sums up the way I felt at the end of the workshop:-

“Strong women aren’t simply born. We are forged through the challenges of life. With each challenge we grow mentally and emotionally. We move forward with our head held high and a strength that can not be denied. A woman who’s been through the storm and survived. We are warriors.”  -Author unknown