Despite the fact that the dwdconfessions are meant to be anonymous, I am going to admit to one of mine, simply to say thanks.
I sent in the one about being afraid of writing. The couple of responses it got made me feel so relieved to know that other people feel the same way.
I've always been terribly shy and extremely hard on myself when it comes to my fanfiction. No matter how many positive reviews I get, I can never shake the thought that I'm a horrible writer and my OCs suck.
For ten years or more, I've been writing fanfics for various fandoms, always afraid of ever sharing them with anyone. Whenever I'd try to post one somewhere, I'd have horrible panic attacks and go back and delete them.
It was only recently that I really started trying to get over that fear, thats why I made this site. So I could share my stories with people, without having to worry about anonymous bashers.
Fact is, I know I may not be the best writer out there and my OCs prolly are Mary Sues... but when I write, I pour my heart and soul into it. I try to tell myself that thats all that matters, but I fear its not completely sunk in yet.
I think its something everyone struggles with in some way or another. The need for acceptance from our peers, even online. Fandom brings people together, but it can push people away just as easily. Humans are social creatures, so the thought of being shunned or singled out from the pack is a terrifying thing.
It hasn't been easy getting over that fear, but knowing that there are people out there that feel the same and there are people that enjoy my stories, helps.
Thank you. Thank you SO very much.
-Jadie