Vocal + Assist Picks

Christmas day morning and here I am penning an article for the latest Vocal + Assist Picks, number two to be exact.

You can check out number One here, in case you missed it, there are some really talented writers featured who are more than definitely worth a read, like, and subscribe!

In chosing the picks, the Vocal + Assist Discord channel and Facebook group have both had input. Meaning more picks. Yay! And even better still less ramblings from me as I try to make up the word count. Bonus!

This Christmas I am going solo, yup, on my Doug. Before anyone reaches for a violin. I am entirely, gleefully, introvertedly happy about it. No stress. Peace and quiet. Cat snuggles all the way. So, I’ve poured me a Bucks Fizz and a way to go, as always in absolutely no particular order:

Paige Lauscher

This heartening story presents a personal journey from childhood to adulthood; a lifelong passion for words and an ability to connect a vivid imagination with language, we join Paige as she explores her own journey with storytelling and the power it has on our identity and aspirations. A heartfelt read that will resonate with the creator in all of us.

The Dani Writer

A delightful call to emotional arms! Challenging the reader to get out of their own way and release themselves from societal constraints. The Dani Writer encourages us to embrace our authenticity with honesty and soul. An absolute must for the New Year, especially for anyone seeking inspiration and motivation to become their best s (elves)!

Kenneth Lawson

A beautifully gentle narrative that harnesses the capacity of music to forge connections across time, place and age. It is also an exquisite illustration of the power of creation and the influence it can inspire, long after the passing of its creator. A definite heart pleaser!

OK. Judey Kalchik was featured last week as well. But this deeply personal story took root in my heart and head. And would not let go. So here it is:

A highly emotional story that captures feelings of invisibility, and the emotional impact of feeling overlooked and unvalued with eloquence and so, so much heart. The narrative features a tragic single event as a result of which, self-perception is changed forever. Beautifully articulated, this piece brings to the fore the very human need to feel seen and remembered. An absolute must read if you have ever felt unseen or unheard.

Cyrus

This article and poem stands out for its ability to connect with readers on a deep, emotional level, offering both comfort in shared struggles and motivation to overcome them. It’s a poignant reminder of our resilience and the collective journey towards growth and success. A wonderful message to lead us into the New Year.

Thank you to all of the creators on Discord and Facebook for sharing your talent. And, as ever a huge thank you to the curation team Rick Henry Christopher, River Joy, Oneg Tristan, Darnell Lee, Lamar Wiggins, Jim Delaney Howe and Mother Combes.

You can join in the fun on Facebook here:

On a more personal note..

If a tree falls in the forest and no one is there, does it still make a sound?

Yes, indeed I believe it does. Because the potential to be heard is infinite. So, whether you read this or not I wish you all the very best that 2024 has to offer. There will be challenges no doubt, for all of us in one way or another. May your words keep you strong and our community build you up as you move forward and through.

I only joined Vocal in August and as exaggerated as this may sound, it has changed me fundamentally. At some point over the last twenty years, I somehow disassociated from life. The fear of letting people in or letting go had numbed me into a kind of half-life amongst the shadows. Vocal and the wonderful community I have encountered has woken me the hell up, and moving forward seems like a tangible possibility. Thank you all for your kindness and support. And from my heart to yours, may the New Year be all that you wish and so much more!