Writing is essential to me because of the freedom I feel. I was always different from everyone else, and sometimes being different makes you a target. I felt singled out, and I never felt heard. But whenever I pick up a pen or pencil or open a computer, I feel at peace. I never remembered ever seeing someone who looked like me be a writer. As I grew up I started seeing more people like me, writing and directing things so it enhanced my interest in being a writer. I wanted to add to that change I was now seeing. Writing makes me feel whole and gives me a purpose in life. Writing is my purpose in life. I can say what needs to be displayed or what I want to say without feeling judged. It makes me happy and lightens up any of my bad days. My family isn't big on writing. Some of them believe it's foolish and a waste of time. I'm always asked how would I be rich with writing. Well, that's exactly how I know I want to be a writer. Money is not what's important to me. The money would be a plus to already getting the privilege to do what I love to do. I am more on the shy side of things, so writing lets me showcase my personality. I can showcase my writing and express something, whether about myself or societal situations, without a face. I say without a look because being a woman, specifically, a black woman can be hard. I don't want the credibility of my writing or my writing skills to be judged based on how I look. Writing is a form of art. When writing, I think of my pen as a paintbrush. Every line has a different stroke, color, or size, and in the end, I have a beautiful painting filled with much more than whose hands did it. No matter my mood, I write. I'd describe the feeling as eating warm cookies. They make you feel good, happy, and friendly. I can always count on my writing to help, listen to, and understand me when no one else can or wants to. It's my pride and joy. Only other writers can understand the love and happiness writing brings me. It's also essential for me to share my love of writing with others. I want to show and teach others who wish to become a writer whatever they need to go far and be successful. Writing is a lifestyle, a lifestyle I willingly dedicate my life to!