An Annual Letter (2017)
On 12/3/2009, I began writing. Not for the first time but the first time for public consumption. No longer were my thoughts buried in journals and composition notebooks. My words weren’t just for me. They were being shared with the whole world. With every push of the publish button, my thoughts and the expression behind them would be questioned, debated, and used to judge me (good or bad). The decision to do so was both freeing and terrifying. It was a high wire to be traversed repeatedly. On one hand, I am and was filled with a desire to keep some things close to the chest. On the other hand, I am and was consumed with a need to measure myself against other human experiences. Every single time I publish something, the balance is questioned.
Since 12/3/09, I have published 1,007 blog posts. Some are well read and some fall on deaf ears. I have learned to never take either too personally. People who read these words, watch these videos, and listen to the podcast have their own lives. I am a mere grain of sand on a vast beach of people wrestling for attention. For those who do stumble across this little corner of the internet from time to time, I give my thanks. You will never understand what your support means to me and those who publish content on this website.
Natetheworld is now 8 years old. As such, it is time to grow up. As we move forward, you will begin seeing a link for a site called Patreon at the bottom of each post. It is a site that allows content creators to be compensated for their work. I have chosen very economic levels for people to support me and those who write for me. My decision behind this move is a desire for a certain degree of professionalism. For all my life, I have written. It is a hobby of mine and one I would do even if no one paid me. Yet, writing posts, reviews, lists, recording podcasts, and vlogs takes time. In some selfish way, I would like to get paid for what I love. So, if you like what you experience on Natetheworld, please consider making a gift. You get some pretty cool perks!
I, for one, am looking forward to the year ahead and the topics to be covered here. I am excited to see how the site grows and what we can accomplish together. There is someone out there right now who feels alone and as if what they are experiencing is unique. This site exists to let them know they will never walk alone. It is a simple mission but one for which I am immensely proud.
Be good to each other,
-Nathan
I've never asked readers for financial support before. I am committed to keeping content on this site free and open to all. For me, this means no paywalls or subscription fees. If you like what I create, please consider making a contribution on Patreon.
