Say "Hi" in this Thread

[rayheinrich]

Hi,

I have never written a word of poetry.  Quite frankly, I have always been a bit afraid of even trying.  
I suffer from a mental disorder called Paranoid Schizophrenia.  I see and hear things that aren't there.  
I thought this would be a good outlet to help me focus and express my thoughts.  I look forward to
reading other people's poetry and getting constructive criticism of my own.  

I hope to talk with you soon.

You have two great advantages already:

The first is: That not having written poetry, you haven't had the chance to pick up any bad habits that you'd
just have to take time unlearning here.

And the second is: That you're mentally ill. As someone who's actively bipolar I can assure you that mental illness can help
give you inspirations beyond the powers of our more normal brethren. The trick is to get the right meds and take them regularly;
as this advantage only works when you're in control enough to edit the damn stuff after you write it. If you can't edit it,
it's usually too disconnected to make the poetry accessible to others.

And I find it's good therapy. Especially since it's a way to socially interact with others when you just can't
stand (or are afraid) to meet someone face-to-face. (This last is as it pertains to me; I'm not pretending
to know what your needs are.)

Anyway, welcome, and always feel free to PM me,
Ray