The Boicean Project

I've gained a respect and appreciation for Boice, however off-putting his medical terminology in reference to writers/the writing process are. Perhaps it is done on purpose to convince the readers to take the suggestions and rules more seriously?

I will have to re-read the sections of Boice we discussed in class, and at a much more mindful pace. I want to go back to the imagination/creativity section too.

Overall, I am open to the ideas Boice presents to us. I think outlining the chapters in a way that describes what impacts myself and my actions the most, as well as a clearer way to connect ideas between chapters will be helpful.

The ideas presented by Boice, I've come to learn, apply to many other practices in my life. Specifically, I turn to music and my past approaches to practicing piano and voice. I stopped voice lessons because I couldn't take it - it was a torturous process. I felt awful about myself, my voice, my lack of a system of practice and approach. After processing the exercises and suggestions of Boice, I am feeling more confident about possibly returning to voice lessons. I now have a plan, an approach, an angle. I knew before Boice that practicing was a daily task, that small chunks over time show progress and success, but I was at a loss of what to do within those chunks. I asked teachers, fellow musicians, and never really found a satisfactory answer.

I plan to implement the practice of BDSs in many aspects of my life as well. I tend to have too many projects going on at once, leaving me feeling unfinished, incapable, and all other sorts of negative feelings. I plan on creating a project calendar and working on a different project everyday, or every week, and applying the Boice strategies to pursuing progress.

Have I mentioned how much I've learned in this course and how excited I am to try all this out in the fall?

I would really enjoy a reunion maybe midway through the semester, to see how everyone is doing in regards to writing, as well as in general. (Sort of like the Boice groups - setting ourselves loose and then returning to follow-up on how things went.)

Thanks for the support, laughs, and insightful observations from everyone. Without such a diverse and encouraging class, this would not have been the excellent experience it has turned out to be.

Boice pp 161 - end of chapter!

All this talk about hypomania hasn't struck a chord with me to be honest. There are few times I can recall going on writings. I understand, but can't say I have a history of the habits associated.

Environmental controls - patients? Oh Boice.

"Time that could be spent writing (or practicing, or drawing, or other helpful, productive actions) is always in danger of displacement by other binges; office cleaning or redecoration can dislodge writing as much as any acitivity imaginable."
Guilty as charged. The desire to create the perfect working environment often is acted upon before the actual working, leaving me feeling ashamed of my decision. It's not even that fun while you're doing it! You're stressed out about how unkempt the place is, while knowing you're procrastinating by cleaning.

I'm not sure what Boice means by distance-focusing. Looking into the distance to re-establish focus?

Not surprised that Boice makes sure to include a social factor into writing settings - social support.

I'm surprised to see music didn't play a larger factor in the conditions, but like the idea of a desk fountain. Such a great reminder (in my mind) of the idea of mindfulness, as well as a calming sound to focus on in unsteady thoughts/times.

The reactions of those who know they are not as successful as other members of the writing groups were a small sense of comfort and certainly a reminder of something I tell myself everyday: "people live their lives differently." There is no reason to beat yourself (or others!) up for not following each and every rule, and in the correct manner.

I think I have been far more concerned about doing everything right and in the correct manner, rather than experiencing the effects of the actions. Fear of failure, not doing things right, pops up in the funniest ways and places.

Aha, distance focus!

Has to do with our eyes, so I wasn't too off base. It is a relaxation technique. Why not distance relaxation Boice? I don't exactly want more to focus on!

Boice pp 153-161

This section, in combination with the wonderful walking meditation experience I had created a confirmation in myself: live slowly.

Taking time to notice things. Learning to discern what to notice, and what to appreciate.

Spending time in the morning assimilating our minds to the purpose of the day (living slowly, calm, mild happiness, etc.) sounds like a great idea, but one I would have to wake up earlier for. I am awful at waking up early, and doing it to relax? Well, not such a bad idea.

There seems to be so much to do with this process now. Even though we've been practicing BDSs, there has been what comes across as a lot more to do - the prewriting, breaking down how to do that prewriting, creativity, RETs... it may all be variations of the same ideas, but in a systematic order, how would that look? I may need to make a scheduled outline of it all. Having a checklist as a reminder would be helpful.

"Don't waste your energy expecting..."
Take things as they come. Doesn't mean abandoning living to certain standards, but having flexibility in what comes your way.

"Recognize your own contribution." (in regards to vulnerability)
This concept struck me as interesting because I hadn't considered it before. However, like always, it makes sense. The amount of time the way we think contributing to our "suffering" is unbelievable sometimes. When did we learn to operate in this manner? Who said this was okay?

Boice pp 148 - 151: "I know what foolishness it is."

Man, talk about self-empowerment! This entire reading gave me the slightest tickle of butterflies. The simplicity of rejecting negative thoughts that hold us back from positive and esteem-building activities was a relief. This (moderated) excitement topped out at the cited idea above, "I know what foolishness it is."

We are strong individuals who can take more than we allow ourselves. It is a disservice to ourselves and in turn to others if we deny ourselves the opportunities we fear so adamantly.

"Just get on with it."
Reminds me of a phrase from a past reading, something to the extent of "I know I'll like it when I start, so I might as well start."

"The parts of our minds that spew out the irrationalities hang on to their old scripts with remarkable tenacity and ingenuity."
So we must be vigilant and observant of these scripts in order to create the best combatant scripts that will dissolve the captors (of our minds and efforts.)

The third stem of depression, as outlined by Ellis/Boice, the "unrealistic belief that other people should treat us considerately and fairly," gets me in trouble rather frequently. I cite the golden rule and that I try my hardest to carry it out with friend and foe alike, but find myself upset when the friend does not reciprocate. It leaves me feeling wasted, frustrated, a tad embarrassed, and ready to give up and become bitter. It discourages my extension of golden rule behavior to anyone. This can easily be seen in any sort of writing or activity that requires the same moderation as writing (my thoughts go to practicing [voice or piano].)

I plan on building RET time into any sort of preparation activity for practicing, writing, and exercising in order to help support the continuation of the activity. They are all things I love, and things I know I will benefit from. Why not help the process along?

We are the ones holding ourselves back. We have the power to let ourselves go.

BDS - 7/23/13

Today, I got a timer on my phone (why Andriod doesn't create that app within its preset clock app is beyond me) and set it for two sets of 10 minutes. I took a 5 minute break halfway through the 20 minute sesh and stood up, stretched a bit, got a snack and drink of water - and was back in action! I am becoming more and more aware (in bds land as well as in everyday life) of any tension I hold in my face, particularly my cheeks, jawbone, and eyes, as well as my tongue clinging mercilessly to the roof of my mouth. I find that when I loosen up these areas, I gain some ease and focus.

Next time, I would like to do a body scan or even some yoga before starting my bds. I enjoy the whole-body awareness!

BDS - 7/22/13

That's right, I brought back the double-entry/sided notes for my new project! I (FINALLY) finished up my research paper for my religions course and have now turned my focus to applying the Boicean way to songwriting.

As we began our 25-minute session, I jotted down my purpose for that bds: to research and begin to join the conversation on songwriting. Not exactly the most promising thing to enter into google. Nonetheless, I read a few articles, wrote my double-sided notes, and felt a comfortable ease in the direction I see myself moving in.

We took two breaks at ten-minute intervals, resting momentarily to reset our bodies and minds to more comfortable, mindful, and focucsed positions.

Boice pp 139-144

It seems the pages missing from the book address anxiety, something I am all too familiar with. Throughout the reading, I made notes in the margins about the relativity of mindfulness in helping ease any tension or issues discussed. "If only they would be mindful!" I shout to the paper (in my head.)

One phrase that caught my attention was the following:
"How much in control am I?" (in regards to "relying on binges for creativity")

For some reason, I never really considered this 4 chapter Boice process a move towards more controlled writing. It makes sense though. Boice gives us the fence-posts for our poor sheep like minds, and allows us to build the limits that create the most comfort and success as writers with them. It never felt like we were forcing the sheep-like minds, grasping too hard. But that is in fact what Boice has been describing, but not in those words.

It's an interesting perspective for me. I'm interested to see where the rest of the chapter leads us!

Write on, fellow sheeple. 

BDS - 7/19/13

Friday's BDS. The night before I had completed a paper that had been looming over my head all month. I was positively giddy to sit in class that day and only need to work on revisions and my bibliography.

During my planning time, I confirmed my last tasks were creating my title page and bibliography. Ended up taking longer than anticipated! The nit-picky details were more annoying and exasperating than writing the paper itself!

From what I recall, we did a 20-30 minutes in class with a short break for checking physical comfort (tongue checks, posture, etc.) at each 10 minute mark.

Starting to develop the feelings of a habit. There is an gentle expectation of what goes on in these BDSs. Change is difficult, but routine is much more comfortable after all the dust settles.

I can't wait to continue this habit to se e what can come of it.

Boice pp 129-137

Aha, something new from Mr. Boice! What happens when the conversation stops, and the writers take their fresh experiences into new environments? Old habits return.

I think that's where our mindfulness practice gives us an extra step in preventing the return of bad habit of binging or negative self talk. We practice the awareness of what is going on, seeing the thoughts for what they are, rather than surrendering to them.

"Once I get involved in this, I will enjoy it, so I might as well get started."

That phrase makes my stomach turn in the best way an organ can (or should.) It is encouraging, rationalizing self-talk, as opposed to negative self-talk: "you'll never get this done," "why even start? It won't be any good or go anywhere."

So much of the distractions in our life are distractions because we label them as such. It is (usually) not the event itself, but the disturbance we allow in because of its happening.

Why doesn't Boice mention a mindfulness practice anywhere in this reading?! It seems so obviously helpful and related.

In-Class BDS Reflection - Not a bad turnaround.

The first half of class left me irritated. I was ready to walk out. I am easily bothered when things do not stay on track and when people talk about personal opinions that don't relate to the topic or reading at hand. If it can be concisely described (and a reason why its relevant is understood,) I am more than happy to listen. If not, I resort to drawing and snappy additions to the conversation.

I was able to relax and let go of any frustration and get some great work done in the 30 minutes with a few breaks in between. Certainly felt ready to be done by the end though.

Boice pp 101 - 107

"Formal Interventions." Ah, Boice.

Okay Boice, I'll pick up what you're laying down this time.

"Reflecting what we have accomplished each day"
I rarely do this in regards to writing. Again, out of fear perhaps that I may end up realizing I am unsatisfied with the amount accomplished?

Preparing for Daily Sessions
I have marked by this step "I CAN'T KEEP TRACK OF ALL THIS PLANNING!"
In the middle of writing the thought, the amount of aversion to change (even something as small as a 2 minute planning period) is a bit ridiculous. I took a breath, laughed to myself, and continued on with an open mind.

"Point of free-writing-to-plan is to supplement, not supplant daily writing"

Making BDS a Regular Habit
(... it has the word "daily" in the phrase - how is it not considered a regular habit yet?)

Pairing this type of exercise to morning, weekday times eases the apprehension of writing for me.

"Instills confidence and pride"
Reading this makes me sit a little taller, creates a little spark, considering the possibility of these feelings in association with writing

Making writing a moderate priority threw me off a bit. If you're a writer, bringing home the bacon with said writing, I'd consider writing a top priority. So is it the process or the product that are viewed with moderate priority?

Minsky's Law - I would love to learn more about this! I'm surprised that making something a high focus priority decreases its possibilities of success.

Stay in touch with writing on a daily basis.
(BDS? Is there an echo in here?)

"Rules for productivity persist because they work, regardless of writers' general philosophies"

Arranging a regular site specifically for writing - sounds like the advice given to those with trouble sleeping, making the bed only a place for sleep or sex, nothing else.
Making yourself sit there in the environment, even if you feel you cannot write, is also interesting to me. I imagine sitting there, twiddling my thumbs. BUT - we have been learning about active waiting, no?

Write on fellow warriors.

Boicean Blocking Assessment

No surprise - an aversion to work and procrastination rated as my highest troublemakers. The second arrow with this knowledge is that I KNOW these are my issues and I have a tndency to avoid making changes, even if I know they'll help me. I imagine them as major inconveniences and energy drainers. Something out of the ordinary, and I do love new and exciting things, is much more exciting when it doesn't directly involve or benefit me.

This seems like such a simple but personal choice to recognize what is holding you back, let it go, and move on to success. It boils down to fear for me. Fear of not measuring up to lofty made-up expectations from myself and others, fear of failure or looking stupid, fear of running out of time and not completing assignments at all.

It should not have to come to a point where the pain of fear is so debilitating that change is necessary.
Baby steps.

Boice pp. 73-80

To start off, these "rules" don't seem like rules. They're more like guidelines. This has been mentioned in class multiple times, but the more I collect of them, the more this thought is confirmed. I prefer rules over guidelines. I feel more comfortable with the strict fence lines of what is expected of me. With the flexibility and freedom some writing assignments afford, fear strikes within. There's an expectation within myself and that I think others expect of me that I need to suddenly meet, which of course will be painful and difficult - nearly impossible.

Thankfully, there aren't many rules or changes within practices to keep up with. The ideas of comfortability, daily writing/organization/idea collecting-sorting habits, and patience are continuing themes with Boice.

I greatly appreciated the way Boice provided both quantitative and qualitative research results from successful and unsuccesful participants. It was very easy to identify with a number of the struggles described, such as clinging to old habits out of comfortability. It has been hard to maintain that habit, and I feel silly asking for help from anyone outside my class (or even within the class) for an accountability sort of reminder. I have alarms for all the assignments and such on my phone, but that's a personal reminder that is easily swiped out of sight and out of mind, for a little while.

The way my assigments and coursework approached me this summer took me off guard, or at least I failed to plan well enough in advanced for the amount of daily work required to complete quality products with succesful experiences with the Boicean way. I do have a Music History writing intensive course this fall I am excited to apply this process to. 

7-16: BDS Reflection

My BDS was anything but peaceful. Unfortunately, the amount of disorganization in my head/apartment/life in general (it seemed) combined with the course work load I am facing this week brought me to tears. I felt overwhelmed, like I couldn't possibly get all that I needed done (hence, the lateness of a few of my responses and reflections - I'm sorry!) So much of the dramatics were caused by the doubt of my abilities and looking at the whole of what was left to be done rather than taking a few deep breaths and focusing in on what I could do and what should happen next. Once I calmed myself down a bit, I was back in action. I worked for a good 45 minutes (no break) on my research paper and filled out/honed in my outline a little more, as well as reading for a seperate essay due this Thursday.

7-15: BDS Reflection

In general, the experience was quite peaceful. The idea of neutrality resonanted with me the entire time. Throughout the 20 minute session, I maintained an "alert" sitting up straight posture, making sure to keep my posture in the back of my mind.
After the ten minute break, I continued on researching and reading for a paper seperate from my research paper.
This was a good day. This was one of the first days I wished class wouldn't have ended.

Boice pp 64-72

He's a wizard! Boice can read my mind! Looking back on my BDS from last evening, I was questioning the purposefulness and completeness of my outline. I asked questions like "Do I need more research?" Today's reading helped calm my insecurities about my writing and assured me I was heading in the right direction, something I am not known for.

"Alternatives are more visible and more likely to be tried and retried."
Always the simple statements that make the most impact. They tend to come off as obvious, but almost revolutionary.

Another question answered! I was unsure as to whether I was doing my outlining or more advanced prewriting too soon. Boice replies with the following: "It is never too early tojoin a conversation in the sense of planning what we may say and interesting ways of saying it."

The bits about talking aloud? Again, right up my alley. I think most confidently and thoroughly while talking out loud. I had not thought of bringing this practice to my writing. I don't think it will be encouraged or welcome during the in-class BDS though!

Boice pp62-64

A practice in imagination, huh? Another thing to practice, another thing to schedule. Will it always take time to get used to new things in our day? Are we that caveman-esque in our ways that change is so startling and disgruntling?

Certainly not! I am always looking for new ways of organization and scheduling, and a slot for imagination time (while it is not free-wheeling, still rather thrilling) sounds like it is right up my alley.

Now, sharing with others? That process makes me feel less than excited. My highlighter and I noted the various compliments and suggestions to ask for, but I can't help but realize I am skimming over that section out of a basic instinct of fear. Why take something you feel is incomplete, almost mediocre, and show it to someone? What would they think of you and your work?

I think it is worth the risk, once I actually get up to that point.

A rather flat BDS.

I, unfortunately, felt nothing close to the fizz found in previous my previous BDS's. I began with no purpose! I simply dove in thinking "Crap this paper is due in a week!" Oh Boice, you would be so disappointed in me.

Fear not, fellow writers! I made sure after 10 minutes of outlining and somewhat writing to take a break, stretch, get some water, and sit back down for another 15 minutes of work. Now that I had a clearer outline of what needed to be filled in or what more I needed to research before joining the conversation in the preferred manner of informed confidence, I settled into some more prewriting and research. Very few sources to be had. Maybe it is time to begin writing?

Is it okay when, if I try writing to see where I am missing information? Or should I wait and continue to try more research?

In Boice we trust.

BDS Make-up from 7-10-13

To make-up for the in-class BDS I missed yesterday afternoon, I sat down in my apartment on my futon for 30 minutes, taking a stretch/coffee break halfway through. Even in a familiar area (or possibly because it was so familiar) I was still distracted. I was never that good at joining conversations slowly. I usually just jumped in - very much the talk first think later personality. This retraining, however, is proving to be useful in that I am making encouraging process towards moving out of prewriting and into ACTUAL writing!

The Fog of Prewriting and Writing - Boice pp 52-59

Prewriting. I think I've used this rule in practice only once in my life as a writer of academic papers. It was my senior year in high school. My dual-enrollment English class was assigned a research paper of such-and-such length about some sort of topic of our choosing. After settling on the impact of Chinese currency on the American economy (or something to that length), I made it a point to research the heck out of this topic, simply because I was clueless about it all!

That paper was nominated for some sort of reward. I was extremely proud of it because I never (and still don't quite) consider myself a writer. The process and product were both a reward in themselves. It did take time and patience.

One thing I didn't do in the pre-writing stage at that time was collaborate. Making that connection seems like a very positive and somewhat easy step to take in working towards composition.

I've never really learned how to take notes. Sure, I've experiemented with what types of dashes or bullets are most pleasing to look at (I've settled on triangles for larger points, in case you were wondering,) but even after reading how to take notes in this section of the Boice chapter, I adore double-entry note taking. I can say firsthand how it inspires creative or curious thought while practicing summarizing and deciding what is important to include or not.

Pictures that feel relative.

I enjoy pictures and sharing them with people who may find them helpful for funny. So, here ya go!





This last one I seem to relate to SO often in in-class formal meditations. Thankfully, we don't have to strip down to a loin-cloth, be extremely flexible, AND pull of a cinnamon roll bun and scraggly beard to achieve the same quiet mind!

Independent BDS - Big Girl Time

So I put on my big girl pants and did my own BDS. It was actually not bad! I was anticipating lots of distraction since I was using my computer to do research, but it didn't happen. I also enjoyed the process too because I became engrossed in what I was reading.

Here's the nitty-gritty of what went down tonight:
- approximately 20 minutes of BDS time
- set up a playlist on Spotify for this length so that I had gentle background music (a musician under the moniker "Goldmund" if you're looking for peaceful, simple piano music) that would alert me of when my time was up by going silent
- I took a break when a rather annoying add popped up in my earphones and took the opportunity to stretch and reevaluate my sitting position. jI noticed in this time my computer was a little tilted, causing me to read articles with my head crooked - not exactly comfy and imagination-promoting. So I propped the dear thing up a tad, closed my eyes, felt my breathing, and continued on. This occurred at about 7-8 minutes into the session.
- I utilized the double-note method in my composition book to take notes from various sources and REALLY appreciated it for its allowance of summarizing as well as reflection. The ability to connect ideas became alarmingly clear and excited me.

I believe this amount of time is good, but I wonder what it would be like doing more than one BDS like this a day. The deadline for this research paper seems to be breathing down my neck!

How can I wait to join the conversation when the conversation may end before I am fully prepared to join? Such a conundrum. Any thoughts fellow writers?

Cheers - and stay cool!

In-Class BDS - Reflection: Not so hot.. well, sort of.

It was warm sitting by the window today! After any prolonged session of meditation or focus (like the formal meditation and BDS today) I felt very warm. I blame the windows.

Unfortunately, this BDS was not as positive or successful as my last one. Throughout the entire process I stayed mostly keyed into my posture, but not so much my breath.

I was a tad put-off by the shortened (basically non-existent) time spent focusing on the breath and calming our minds before beginning our BDS's.

Length of BDS: 25 minutes, split into 3 sections - 2 of ten and 1 of 5 minutes, with minimal breaks between each

I still am not convinced of the positive power of these breaks. They just proved to be a distraction for me. I am all centered and focused on what I'm doing and BAM - there's Donna's cell. So startling. I certainly understand and appreciate the relaxing and rejuvenating affect of a break, but there must be a better way (at least for myself) to carry out the act.

As far as content, I feel like I became discouraged by a lack of focus or sources (possibly both) in regards to my religions paper.

Let's see what a BDS on my own shapes up to be, eh?

Cheers fellow meditators

Boise - Chapter 2, pp 43-50: Imagination

" trust themselves as a faithful source of inventiveness"
"imagination demands more effort and risk than force"
"patterns and associations with special promise"
diligence and decisiveness
Listening then collecting, and then imagining

I am so glad they use oxford commas in this publication. It would drive me crazy otherwise.

varied playful perspectives

Is anyone else plagued by this sense that all that can be written has been written?
I adore minimalism, but shy away from simplicity, especially when toying with improvising on the piano. Listening to Goldmund while reading and writing reflections has been an encouragement

No formal beginnings? But I'm great at starting projects! If I could major in starting projects, I'd kick ass. But alas, I have settled with music and have trouble finishing projects. The idea of an ever continuing project is rather new. In a world of extremes, a middle ground is found - neither beginning, sometimes ending?

"lacking in spontenaity"

Is this what draws so many to writing? They imagine a starving artist at the point of driving themselves mad trying to create a fantastic creation? The writing blocks, the sudden inspirations, the big success? How often are we taught the process of writing other than being given assignments in school? We are told what to write, how large the margins must be, but it all is so impersonal.

double writing sounds interesting. i have no projects, but the practice of summarizing as well as commenting sounds like a good habit to form

"Imagination works best in moderation"

"noticing, organizing, and associating"

"fiction that imagination lies hiding within them"

So true! We just are productions of others, of those surrounding us, of what we expose ourselves to.

"what oft was thought, but ne'er so well expressed."

Feels like an encouragement, huh?

"Perfectionism ... diminishes when we turn from thinking to doing."

"We may have to become geniuses the hard way. Pity."

I feel, even if I try to read slow, after a while I start to skim because I lose interest in the text. Not that its boring, but that my mind tends to wander. Time for a break? THANK GOD I'VE READ AS FAR AS I NEED TO.

(Not that I don't like the reading, Donna!)

Boice 30 - 38

Again, I didn't know if this reading response is an assigned to be completed before today's (Monday's) class, or after. I went ahead and skimmed, looking for some main points as well as checking off as many the Boice Rules as I could.

Be expecting a fuller response later this evening!

Boice 20-30

To be honest, I forgot about the reading for Friday. So, I did the opposite of what we were supposed to do - skimmed the reading to be at least partially familiar with the material.

I do plan on re-reading the assignments and completing a more in-depth reflection later on today.

From what I rushed through this morning:
- an uncomfortable feeling throughout, mainly with the use of the word "intervention"

I was already in an agitated state at work, so any sort of reflection would be colored in that sense.

Impact of meditation - beyond ourselves

A friend posted this story from the New York Times onto Facebook and I thought it might interest the class.

http://mobile.nytimes.com/2013/07/07/opinion/sunday/the-morality-of-meditation.html?h=0AQHm434q&s=1&ref=opinion&

In Class BDS

The BDS in class was an extremely positive experience for me. There was an easy relation and transfer of skills from the in-class formal mediation practices which made writing and researching easier than usual. The habit of focusing on the breath, but gently bringing our thoughts back when they wander was the most helpful skill crossover. The gentle and unforced focus on the task at hand was relaxing and pleasant.

We spent 20 minutes working, with a break halfway through. I spent my time on beginning to gather sources for my religious studies research paper. 

Not so slow reading

Feeling a sense of nagging, which sounds terrible. Makes me think of all good habits - done a little everyday.

The more I read, the more I feel like a fake - I'm not a writer! I sign, sing, and play piano. I work in a copy center. I have no great desire to write memoirs or short stories. I don't know when I will ever write again in my life, at least "important" writing. The only thing that comes to mind is songwriting.. which, as it comes to mind, is the first time I've made the connection between that writing and this course. Either way, I like to pretend I am more a thief who takes the process and applies it to other parts of my life (or others' lives in my imagination.)

"rule of regular"

"induced depression"
I am still rather surprised that, even for writers or English majors, writing comes at such a cost to most who carry out these practices of binge writing or waiting and rushing.

 I'd feel silly taking any songwriting or poetry to a composition professor. I would, however, enjoy sitting down with one to pick their brain about motivational aids to writing.

"involved first and motivated later"
The relation to joining a conversation was interesting. I tend to simply absorb information or my surroundings in conversational settings, or jump right in. Does personality have anything to do with writing styles? I'm sure they have some sort of an effect.

I feel comforted, even encouraged just reading the paragraph about joining the writing "conversation."

"waiting becomes less passive" "forcing becomes less active"

Big "ah-ha!" moments going off like fireworks in my head. Of course! How is this not obvious to us all? It may seem great on paper right now, but I still need more motivation or inspiration to actually want to begin research on a topic sometimes. Some days I don't feel like contributing to the conversation.

"about what could be said" an invitation heartily accepted!

Realizing how much confidence this process musters up makes me want to begin working on my paper, as well as songwriting

Tying together searching for success in your interests and admirations as far as writing

Fear or nagging realization found in this quote: "Impressive as these insights are, they don't always translate into action."

Leaves me wanting more - what other parallels do they find or look for?

I read this reading at a much quicker pace than yesterday, with a highlighter and pen in hand. I prefer the slower reading, so I hope to re-read this section after class or later this morning. I can compare the experience to going back to the theater to see a movie you've already seen and catching more subtle nuances or even obvious actions or intentions you may have missed when you were digging around your purse to silence your cell phone or grasping for the last small bits of popcorn in your bucket.

I reflect as I write in an immediate response way - have a thought, needs to get out. Don't know why it has to get out - just because it's the first thing to pop into my head doesn't make it automatically worthy of writing down. This is not a first-come first-served environment!

Distraction abounds

I thought I'd try reading Boice this morning at work at the Digiprint Center. Usually, things are slow. I only made it through the tip of page 3. To be honest, I was only focused little moments all mornings. It was hard to concentrate. 

I began reading extremely slowly, and rather enjoyed meditating on various phrases and words. I did feel a little silly reading as slow as I was, thinking it was too extreme.

The first sticking point was "calm and confidence." Taking "calm" as a noun stuck with me. The first paragraph entirely gave lots of imagery to me, which I take as an indication of my tendency to distraction. It allowed my imagination to wrap my brain around the information. Even since it came across as simple, I felt like I was able to connect with the text much more.

Others terms that popped up to me included the following:

• "firestorm" - sounds more destructive than productive in regards to writing
• idea of getting "on a roll" 
• writers waiting "passively"
• "unnatural thwarting of what struggles to come into being"

These phrases caused me to pause, struck a chord within me. They made me feel curious, almost skeptical; left me wanting more explanation and understanding. They felt like a new perspective, or a different view.