An Introduction of Sorts
Throughout my time in the creative writing program at my college, I have heard one - perhaps cliché but still true - great writing tip: begin in the middle. What's interesting about stories is that they often don't follow a linear beginning, middle, and end. Good stories cycle through an ever intensifying narrative, where characters are called into questioning and learning and re-questioning and re-learning as they go. For me, I find this poetically similar to life. As I get older, everything seems to be connected in a loop where I progressively reach more challenges, struggle with tougher truths, and come to deeper understandings only to start over again.
Part of this is what I hope to capture here in this gallery/portfolio/blog/website monstrosity - the cycles of my life in their simplicity and complexity. Or perhaps this is just a dumping ground for my various hobbies, interests, and experiences. You can decide.
Over the years, this website has evolved in several ways, starting as a photography portfolio I built for an internship, bulking up in blog posts for a lit class, and now becoming home to where I will write on my experiences as a Young Adult Volunteer (YAV) with the Presbyterian Church (USA) in Albuquerque, NM. I'm excited to see how it will transform next. However, that's the future, and as I said earlier, all good stories begin in the middle. If you're interested on journeying with me, click the button below to see my most recent post and find out where I am.
For those of you to whom demographic information is important, I've included that below as well:
Hello! My name is Allison Blackwell. I am currently 24, and I am a graduate from Queens University of Charlotte with a Bachelor of Arts. At Queens I majored in Creative Writing and Philosophy/Religion, and I was heavily involved in the Interfaith Leadership Council (ILC) as well as some other service and interfaith fellowships. I grew up on a farm near Pittsburgh, PA with horses for pets and a forest in my backyard. I love to travel, read, write, craft, and take photos. After my year with YAV, I hope to go to seminary to pursue a Master of Divinity and continue my work in ministry with a particular focus on interfaith. I believe in affirming the humanity of all people, regardless of their background or religious beliefs, and I hope to help others reach a spiritual peace in the way that is best for them.
Back when I used to have long hair!
I cut my hair off. So much freer. :)
My cat and bestie, Buda.
First time in Chicago.
On the Sea of Galilee!
Celebrating Diwali with interfaith friends!
I always carry a camera and a journal.
Still a foodie today.