The Undiscovered Country

Thoughts Flying Blind

There was a time not to long ago—in actual years, but an age in internet time—when people could write whatever they wanted without having to worry about being “canceled.” Reamed by others for silly opining, sure. That comes with the territory when posting something for all to see and comment on.

Even though few read either this blog or my other one, I still can’t stop from self-censoring. I continue to be tempted to write weak entries that won’t offend others.

Yet when I stop and think about those I read and enjoy, none of them hold back or seem to worry about who might try to silence them. And when I look back at which of my own posts received the most praise—or at least the most interaction—they’re invariably the ones where I let my thoughts fly, damn the consequences.

No one remembers or respects those who hide within the crowd. They do remember and respect those who stood up, even if they disagree with what that person is (literally or figuratively) standing for.

So what do I fear writing about?

Many things, mostly having to do with current events. My reticence is actually two-fold; only one is the fear of how it will be received.

It’s more about what I wrote in my last entry on September 11. Anything I say about what’s going on in today’s world won’t be unique to what others are also saying. Mine is simply another voice in the choir. So unless I figure out a solo, anything I write nothing but one note in the already deafening harmony (or discordant melody, depending).

Another excuse I tend to use is the energy involved with stating my case even further when someone disagrees. Do I really want to take the time to defend myself? Sometimes I simply don’t have the will or desire to argue or debate.

Maybe it’s my age showing…