It starts...

When in the course of human events it becomes necessary for one person to get with the times, it rarely comes easily. (I hope you enjoyed my homage to freedom).  Over the years, I've avoided doing a blog for many different reasons, but now I've finally found the gumption to do it.

The primary reason being because I've never felt that I had the attention span or commitment to maintain one. However, with the recent changes in my life, I find myself with more resolve to commit to things and oddly enough starting a blog has become one of them. Now as I write this, I cynically picture myself stumbling across this lone post in the distant future, thinking about how it was another endeavor that I undertook, but never completed. 

Another reason I have refrained from blogging (and writing in general, actually) stems from my current job. After working in self-publishing for three years, I've encountered enough terrible writing to make me think that the world doesn't need another wannabe writer. However, I've decided to not compare myself to them (or anybody else) and to just write. 

So while there have been many reasons for me not to write, I've finally discovered a reason FOR me to write. I've recently started reading Pride & Prejudice for the first time (its a travesty, I know) and I thought I would start a blog a la "Mark Reads Harry Potter" sharing my thoughts on Jane Austen's great novel, since so many of my friends hold her in such high esteem. I'll try to update it frequently as I read through the book and share my thoughts, but we'll see how it goes. 

I feel I would be remiss if I didn't thank a few people who've helped me recently, and given me inspiration to start this blog:

First and Foremost, Elizabeth Bennett. For those of you that don't know her; yes, that is her real name. That, in and of itself, would ostensibly make it fitting that I start a blog about Pride & Prejudice thanking her.However, I honor her first because A) She said she would read the book with me and we could discuss it B) She said she would read my blog if I wrote one and C) She's the best long distance pen pal that I could ever hope for.

April Koontz. Not only were you the one that pretty much made me start reading Pride & Prejudice, but your blogging has been an inspiration to me. I doubt I'll be as entertaining as Mark, but I'll try to incorporate some "Double Rainbow" "Die in all the fires" and "Holy Flying Unicorns" into my blog to keep you reading. 

Sam Hale. Your love of Jane Austen has always made me want to read her, and that love was a large part in my undertaking this endeavor.

Elizabeth Ward. In an ideal world, we'd be reading Pride & Prejudice together, living in a condo overlooking Lincoln Park and the Lake in Chicago. For now though, we can share it in spirit. 

Brandi Turner. Your strength of spirit. Your determination of character. Your perseverance against the world. You inspire me. 

Liz Sidley. Now we have another thing in common - blogging!

Jake Adams & Abigail Ray. Anytime I read "classic literature" I think of you two and our book group. Maybe this will be a faux-forum to tide us over until we can all get together in person.

Bruce Parker. Anytime I reflect on life, search for myself, or undertake a new endeavor, I think of you. 

My Mom. I can never express my gratitude enough. I love you.

While there are many more people I'd like to thank, I've written for over an hour, and should draw this inaugural post to a close. Thank you, dear reader, for making it through this prolix post. 

Dare to Be Remarkable ~ Jane Gentry