The Blank Page

I'm a newbie, slogging my way through the labyrinth of social networking, trying to find forums and sites that feel interesting and "safe" for someone like me who's never done this before. There's a real vulnerability about telling stories to strangers, although for a writer, I can understand the thrill of a captive audience. Well, perhaps not "captive" but certainly an audience.

I'm an artist, a painter and metalsmith. For me, the fear, the wall, the leap off the cliff is the Blank Page. Or canvas. Or metal and stones and wire to be turned into a piece of jewelry.
Where to start? How to start? How do I get the idea in my head onto the paper? What if I have no ideas in my head?

Which brings me here, to my first online story, ever. I registered several days ago, designed my page,  stared at my page with fear and longing...how does one just jump in for the first?
It's very much like walking into a huge room full of people at a party where you know no one. 

I'm also a solitary sort of person, a loner, never much of a joiner. Don't get me wrong...I'm not antisocial or a misanthrope. I just like to work alone and intensely. And I like being with my friends
and meeting new and interesting people. Since we moved to Cape Cod last year, I have met the most interesting people at farmers markets and flea markets...talk about a social network!

I don't know if any of you out there are familiar with this great book called The Artists Way by Julia Cameron. 
It's been around for quite awhile but still inspires. It's a great read and workbook for anyone, not just artists. Personally, I believe we are all artists in one way or another; we may not have discovered our way or talent yet. But this book helps you face the "blank page" and find your inner creative being. (Obviously, I need to read it again, myself).

Well, I'm not sure this is much of a story, but at least I've done something. I wrote on the blank page. It's a start. And it feels pretty good. 

Maybe the next time will be easier...