I Didn't Want to Be an Author

But then writing led me to the other half of my soul and saved both our lives.

Hello and welcome to Notes from the Town Hermit, a haven for the overthinkers and deep-feelers who search for reasons why life should be worth living. These letters are a labour of love, so if you have the means and want to sponsor my writing, please upgrade.

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Dear Inklings,

A couple weeks ago,

Robin Taylor (he/him)

’s question about origin stories on SmallStack got me thinking about my own. I suspect my writing journey began as many writers’ did: scribbling in notebooks since we could hold a pen. But today I’m sharing a story I've never told before - about how I went from scribbling in secret diaries to publishing under my real name.

This piece dives into the messy, painful parts of my journey with writing. It's about childhood trauma, unexpected losses, and finding the courage to finally share my words with the world.

This essay is not just about me - it's about all of us who have ever wondered if our stories mattered or felt silenced, and the power we have when we finally decide to speak up.

I hope reading it gives you courage.