I think for many of us, blogging, in its simplest terms is a creative outlet. However, it can also be a platform to express emotions at their most raw and honest forms. Even through the most painful of experiences.
It was with great honour that I was asked to be the moderator at DPCON13 for the “Blogging Through Adversity” session.
On the panel, we had Lori from Random Ramblings of a SAHM, Tiff from My Three Ring Circus and Rachel from Mummy Muddles.
For these 3 women blogging has helped them through the journey of grief, hardship and even loss.
I don’t feel it’s in my right to expose the specific details of each of their stories here on my blog. It’s far more appropriate to go over to their spaces at your own will and interest. But I wholeheartedly encourage that you do because we – as a tightly knit community – can never be short on offering love and support for those going through unbearably difficult times.
It was about 15 minutes into the discussion and the enormity dawned on me: the massive, heavy responsibility of guiding an audience through such heartbreaking and emotional topics.
I couldn’t help but break down in tears.
Luckily, all those in the room were forgiving, especially the speakers.
For me, I grasped the true definition of courage, gaining a deeper respect for 3 very special women and their unequivocal emotional strength.
To have their voices heard beyond their tears and anguish, they’ve put themselves through harsh judgement and opinion by those who don’t understand that the cathartic process blogging offers is in fact, therapy.
Taking huge risks in revealing deepest vulnerabilities and fears for all the world to see and read, these women have been critically questioned how their children and family cope with having such intensely personal adversities broadcasted on such a public forum.
Yet, by breaking through rigid conventions, bureaucracy and narrow mindedness, these stories – raw, honest and heartbreaking – are touching many who are going through similar experiences.
It’s the emotional fuel that keeps the human spirit going: to know that you’re not alone, even in an extremely devastating and isolating situation.
A big thank you to Lori, Tiff and Rachel for speaking so bravely and from the depths of their heart.
Joining Essentially Jess for IBOT
