Embarking on a Journey of Self-Discovery
Unveiling New Dimensions
Dear Reader,
Writing a memoir is a deeply transformative and, at times, unsettling endeavour. As I delve into the depths of self-reflection, I am reminded of the old adage: ‘The truth will set you free, but it will make you miserable first.’ Self-knowledge, in all its potency, can be both empowering and humbling.
Just when I thought my writing journey had reached its conclusion, I stumbled upon a treasure trove of new material. It feels akin to packing up after an archaeological dig, only to unearth an unexplored seam brimming with invaluable gems that cannot be ignored.
This unexpected turn of events traces back to the serendipitous discovery of floppy discs hidden away in my attic. Among them lay a forgotten treasure: transcripts of an audio diary I recorded in the 1990s. The elation I experienced at that moment was indescribable.
Yet, I had also unearthed other contents that I had long forgotten about. Although I had already covered the relevant period in my memoir, a hunch told me there might be something significant hidden within. Rather than exploring it immediately, I appended those sections to the end of my manuscript, intending to revisit them later.
Upon completing what I believed to be the final draft of my memoir, a realization struck me. The ‘extraneous’ material had to be addressed. I created a separate file and embarked on a journey through its pages, which became an expansive endeavour. Within those forgotten pages, I discovered insights that shed new light on the themes central to my book: identity, relationships, sexuality, faith, and doubt.
Incorporating these newfound fragments into my manuscript became a necessity. I spent the past week navigating through the material, highlighting passages that wove further insight into the tapestry of my narrative. Yesterday, I began weaving these threads into the fabric of my book manuscript, while reserving other revealing pieces for a yet-to-be-written Postscript.
To disregard this wealth of material would have been a disservice to the book, its reader, and myself. This ‘rich vein’ demands attention and will present challenges as I integrate it seamlessly into my book and my awareness. Yet, the essence of my memoir lies in the pursuit of self-understanding—the book I want to read.
By remaining true to this quest, I hope to create a work that not only captivates, enlightens, and entertains the reader but also serves as a meaningful testament to human experience. Book 2 of my memoir series, Saved by a Woman documents a personal odyssey from belief to unbelief, from self-doubt to self-acceptance, and from the inertia of procrastination to the power of action.
Join me on this transformative journey and together let us explore the depths of the human spirit, and forge a path towards personal growth.
With anticipation and gratitude,
Joe Armstrong