When Lang-8 was shut down, I moved to Journaly. I use Journaly in the same way I used Lang-8. I write in English and Spanish about topics that interest me, topics that are part of me as a person. That was a great way to improve, not only languages but also my writing and my mindset in general.
Nowadays, my English might be quite better, but I still appreciate any corrections or tips on improving my posts. I also appreciate the comments, especially those from people who learn something new from my posts. And of course, there are those comments that help me see how some people hold totally different perspectives.
After I read an article, I might sum up what I learned in a post. Or if I watched a video or there's a disaster happening, I'd write about it. What I write about might be quite controversial (politics, colonialism, imperialism, zionism, etc).
I'm not here to turn anyone around or to discuss. But if anyone likes to discuss, they are welcome. Journaly is not a dictatorship as far as I'm concerned.
Maybe my talk about politics has got quite intense and sharp recently, but that's normal considering that we're heading to hell.
Uly told me twice that Journaly might not be the right platform to share such topics. Is there any rule here I'm not aware of that goes against writing such topics? When we keep working on a language, should we be restricted to specific topics?
I'm asking you, Journaly members, what would you do if you were in my shoes?
Should I stop posting about such topics which would mean stop posting altogether because that what I mainly read and write about? This is my way to keep my English.
I reviewed Journaly before writing this post. I couldn't find anything that says some topics are prohibited here. Actually, I found that:
"Finally, the most important part of Journaly is the community. We want to help people not only find language matches, but we also want to help you connect with people who share your interests."
I'm here to write in English, as well as Spanish, keep journals and connect with those who might be interested in reading my posts, correcting them or just sharing a respectful discussion.
Headline image by sastaphotographer007 on Unsplash
Yeah, what Uly said was that if you want an audience that's going to engage with more solidarity and commiserate with your topic of choice, you'll probably get more of a response in a more political forum since the Journaly community is basically linguistic. At no point did I say it was prohibited. The way I see it, if it makes you feel good — do it! 👍🏻🤩 You seem extremely sad, angry and bitter and I have to wonder if airing those emotions here are helping you or if they're actually aggravating your mindset. I wish you PEACE in your heart and soul, and I hope to one day see you smile in your posts.
I respect your courage and perseverance. Freedom of expression is essential — without it, nothing can change, and even what's really happening ends up being ignored or treated as if it isn't real. Thank you always, Zeeza. I'm also a bit worried about you, just like other members, but I understand that people like you can't help thinking deeply and expressing it.
Hey @CocoPop and @Akiko, Thanks a lot for your kind and concerning comments! I'm indeed angry. I do find writing a good way to release this anger. And writing on Journaly is a haven where I can focus only on the language of my posts.
I'm sorry if my posts were quite bitter. My anger is solely directed at politics and politicians (and those who support them) who make decisions on wars and sanctions as though they were playing a video game.
I also hope I'll be able to recover soon and share some joy with you!
Most of your posts focus on controversial topics, and I often sense a gloomy tone in your writing. Furthermore, the fact that we interact through a machine can sometimes diminuish that genuine human connection.
It feels like you've gone so deep in the rabbit hole that you may not even realize it anymore. I understand. I'm also deeply passionate about politics, social injustice, and war. However, immersing myself in these issues constantly takes a heavy toll on my mental health. Sometimes, you just need to take your foot off the gas.
Glad you write about eye-opening topics.