I am not interested in complaining online. The odd thing is, it looks like dissatisfaction is so built into my personality that I grouse without realizing it. Very enlightening to put things out to a faceless public, and get called on my shortcomings. People in my day-to-day life sometimes say the same things, but one learns to justify, tune-out, write-off, etc, the criticisms of those we see regularly. When complete strangers notice a problem, however, it’s tougher to ignore.

The MFA does excite me. I think it will help me develop as a writer, and lead me away from just blogging about day-to-day life into some richer work. It seems to me like I have a pretty textured background and education to draw from, and said as much (more obliquely) in my applications.

Thanks for the insights and support.

–Will

I am certainly not too happy, but may be too vain, to see my mistakes. I do the my best with this blog, but it seems I need to tighten things up a bit. Complain less, offer more. The best way for me to grow is to be called on my screw-ups, so I appreciate all feedback.

–Will

I do believe there’s a value in writing about trauma, grief, and loss, although I also believe that dwelling on negative experiences can contribute to depression.

I also think there’s a fine line between writing to heal, and “writing to whine.” And, perhaps we can only judge ourselves about which one we’re engaged in.

I think it’s great that you’re applying to MFA programs in writing. I think that might be just the right path for you. Wouldn’t it be wonderful for you to pursue a career where you could combine your medical background with your love of writing? Or just your breath of background with your writing?

Anyway, good luck with all this.

Warmly,

Susan