Do you write on the first page?
It all begins with an idea.
In notebooks or journals, I do not. This has been true for as long as I can remember. I don't recall the origin of this practice. Realistically no one else is likely to read them. So why does this behavior persist?
What if I make a mistake? It will be there every time I open the book.
To me a blank page represents possibility - a blank slate. Within these pages, I may record a revolutionary idea, a significant first meeting, my child's successes - my dreams come true.
I see this "blank first page" behavior in other aspects of my life. The walls in my home are devoid of decoration - not because I am a minimalist but because I don't like marring the pristine surface. Placing items on tables and counters is fine; they can be easily moved. Putting something on the wall feels like a commitment - in some way putting myself on display, to be judged. Conversely, I love seeing things on other people's walls. It gives me a sense of who they are, what they find important.
Starting a blog has been a stagnant goal of mine for a long time. Recognizing my blank first page behavior has helped me address it. A first blog post meant writing on the first blank page. It now feels less intimidating. It’s just a chance for me to show where I have been.
So here I am - writing on the first page.