Why I Write... by Jeanette Walls

My parents always pushed for academic excellence. No matter where we were or what hardships we faced, school was always a priority for us kids. And this is where it started, at the kitchen table (or wherever else we did homework depending on our current situation) completing assignments while Brian did his work and Lori helped Mom grade her students' papers. I learned all about the technical aspects of writing, the fine detail,s the do's and don'ts, but I still found no connection. It was a task I was expected to complete whether or not I wanted to. That is why I am able to write. I had the necessary skills, I just needed some inspiration.

I first discovered my passion for writing when I was in the seventh grade and began working as a proofreader for The Maroon Wave, our school newspaper. It was a tedious job that enabled me to see another side of life. So much happened in the world that I was not aware of since my parents always put their own spin on the stories. It felt amazing to be able take in and interpret the events as I saw them. Ninth grade was when I first stared writing articles for the paper and by junior year I was editor in chief. I was finally allowed to express my creativity without worrying about being judged or made fun of. Not only was I writing for myself but also for society. Reporting news was my way of helping others find the truth in the world.

It is difficult to talk about anything without mentioning my family's history. Everyone, no matter who they are or where they come from, is affected by their past. I write in order to share a little piece of myself with the world, so if anyone else has a story like mine they will be inspired. Not only do I report facts but also a story about the life of a girl who started out looking for food in the Dumpster and ended up living in New York City. It is not a coarse of self-pity or even regret, but a way of connecting with those who are or have been in similar situations.

The sentence "I write because..." is almost impossible to complete with only one word. I write because I want to help others see what is beyond their doorstep. For some, it is a interview with the famous comedian that they idolize. For others, it is about the story of survival. Writing is my passion and my life.