Why Do I Sing?

I sing because I listen,
for writers and composers alike
cannot speak aloud.
I am a writer; I know
the pain of
unspoken language.

I sing because I can--
listen to their thoughts,
and voice them.

I sing because I escape,
for actors
never play themselves.
I am an actor; I leave
the confusion of
my life, momentarily.

I sing because I can--
understand another character
and grow myself.

I sing because I empower,
for female characters
don't always know their strength.
I am a woman; I struggled
to find my strength.

I sing because I can--
empower myself
and inspire others.

I sing because music gave
my seven-year-old self
strength
to speak up,
my twelve-year-old self
challenge
to achieve something,
my eighteen-year-old self
identity
to claim and grow with.

I sing because I give,
for humans
must give as they take.
I am human; I know
my responsibility
to this world.

I sing because I can--
tell people stories
and distract from stress.

I sing because I search,
for we all
find our vocations.
I am part of "all"; I find
my calling through
passion.

I sing because I love--
music and people and
stories, dreams,
connection.

How do you connect?

I sing.

Strange Purpose

Hi,

I never thought I would start a blog, but I've decided that if people out there actually read these things, I might be able to get opinions from people outside my school or home environment, which would be a good idea in my opinion. I like the idea of everyone having unique life experiences that shape their opinions and identities, and I'd like to hear more...

I'm working on a project for my university's honors program, and I'm looking at how fairy tales can be devices for normative social control. What I want to know is this: If you are a girl, I'd like to know how fairy tales have been a part of your life and what influence you think they have had on your relationships and your expectations.

So...if anyone out there reads these, I'd love to hear a bit of your story. I like happy stories, sad stories, and everything in between!

Kaitlin