A Testimonial on the SearchWarp Community
Posted: Friday, August 13, 2010
by Camille Strate
JoyZAChoice
Before you read this missive (and yes, it's a “missive" more than an “article"...you'll see), I want to first say that my intent is to express my true, heart-felt testimonial (go ahead. Look that one up. Cool word.) on behalf of all the remarkable Beings here on SearchWarp. Yea. I can get kinda sappy sometimes. I make no apologies. I am who I am (thank you, Popeye). And one of the great lessons of my most recent experiences is that there's no time like NOW to say how ya feel. So then....
Just a few minutes ago I got notification of a comment on one of my articles. In this comment, the dear lady said, “I can tell you've never read any of my stories." GASP!!! I was instantly struck by this comment because I know I've read her stories and of those I have, I've loved them all. I immediately went to her page and looked over the titles. I knew in my gut that I had read some of her stuff, but there was this nagging voice that was telling me otherwise. No way! I remember!
Well, needless to say it hit some kind of nerve. Not really sure why, because I'm not prone to 'guilt'. Just don't go there any more. I do the best I can every single day, on any given thing, based on what I have to work with. Period. So...I went into this little moment and then got to the next feeling....which was one of utter gratitude.
Not long ago, Bruce (Horst, our beloved host) wrote an article about “Dealing with Rude and Obnoxious Comments". In this piece, he talks a bit about this community and the intention of the founders of SW. It was beautiful. And, as I got past my initial feelings of uneasiness (about her comment), I suddenly heard his voice. I also heard the voices of so many others who've offered kudos, encouragement and tips for me to hone my craft. All I could think was “How splendid these people are!"
We all have our nasty little demons that try so hard to keep us from the light. They do their best to undermine all the good around us, telling us that we're neither worthy nor deserving. So when someone calls us out, or mentions a possible flaw, those nasty little demons rise up and holler, “SEE? TOLD YA!"
Now I know in my heart that (said) Lovely Lady was NOT trying to be mean. I also know that she has a heart of gold, else she'd not be able to offer the wonderful writings she does. It wasn't about her or what she said. It was more about how I reacted. And that led me to this.
I think SearchWarp is one of the most nurturing sites on the entire Web. I mean it. I've written for dozens upon dozens of other eZine type sites. Never have I been met with more encouragement, compassion, and useful criticism than I have here. Add to that the folks who work behind the scenes, with their nearly instantaneous attention when you need help, and their constant drive to 'improve' the site to help all the writers get their stuff out there...and what you've got is a little (LARGE!) miracle happening every single day. It's a marvel to me. The whole site (which, of course, is made up of the WHOLE) is as loving a place as I've ever had privilege to.
The short of it is: I love this place. I love the people who make up this place. And I am deeply and fully wrapped in the Grace of Gratitude to be part of such an awesome community.
My sincerest thanks...and a boat load of hugs to ALL of you.
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Top-level comments on this article: (9 total)Nice Camille.
I've been with search warp for 5 years now, it has improved tremendously through the years. Good article Camille. by the way I have a brother named Camil, just thought I'd mention it.
Another great article, Camille, and I LOVE your attitude! Something we could all learn from.Blessings,
Heartwarming and honest, as your articles usually are- I too have felt the "prick" of some who do not agree with my particular point of view, but as with everything in life, we must take the thorns with the roses- and just try to avoid touching the thorns.... Thanks for an interesting article- Always- Ella
I agree, the site is filled with reciprocity, and every exchange is appreciated.
Your passion is beautiful, Camille. I feel the same way about Searchwarp.
Beautiful comments, from a beautiful lady. Ehh..the rest of these people are ok too, but don't tell them their heads get kind of BIG. lol Looking forward to many more wonderful articles from you...and yes, the people here are amazing, even, and sometimes especially the ones I disagree with, tend to learn a lot from them. And oh, shhh, Zeph ain't near as good lookin' as me! (Just kidding)
Searchwarp is exciting site to explore and learn about life in general along with honing writing skills.
Great article straight from the heart Camille. Stick with Searchwarp and you will be glad you did. Most people sincerely want to help you. when in doubt you can e mail someone you trust in private.
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