It’s time for me to say goodbye.
It’s been just shy of three years since I stared this blog in April of 2012. When I first began, it was just to practice my writing craft so that I would be ready when God wanted to use it, like David honed his character tending sheep before he became King of Israel in the Bible. Unfortunately, it grew into something else.
For one thing, it became an idol. I was no longer practicing; the blog had become the end result. I did indeed see blogging as part of my writing future, but I became obsessed with views, comments, and likes. I stressed myself over deadlines that really had no merit. When the blog didn’t get the vague amount of hits I wanted, I became depressed. That’s not healthy.
And on a more practical side, if I did want to grow this blog into something big, I clearly need more help. Over three years, hits have been fairly stagnant, no matter what I try. Plus, having a newborn makes you very busy, which results in deadlines being missed and posts not appearing. So not only did I deviate from my original intention, but I failed at my obsession, too.
Finally, my wife said to me, “You know you don’t have to have a blog right now, right?”
She has a point. I do enjoy blogging, but it’s only a small piece of what I want to do, and it’s honestly not going anywhere right now. So I think it’s time to put the blog in the trunk for now. I don’t want to kill it because I may want to bring it back someday in the future. But I won’t be writing here anymore, or on my other blog, Steward and Servant. Lesson learned: when one blog stresses you out, don’t make another. Sheesh.
So what now? I joined a writer’s guild, so I’m able to still hone my craft and focus on my novels instead of articles, and novels have always been my greater joy. And I’m contemplating trying new venues such as Youtube or contributing to other websites or such. I don’t know yet, but I know that for me to move forward, I have to say goodbye to Fencing with Ink.
A massive thank you to everyone who’s liked, followed, and commented on my blog in the past. I love you all and it’s been an incredible journey.
Thank you and goodbye.
Fencing With Ink 
Guh. I can understand why you’re doing this but I’m really going to miss seeing your name in the updates. All the best! ❤
LikeLike
Ha, thanks a million. Who knows? Maybe in the future.
LikeLike
Good luck with whatever you decide to do.
LikeLike
Thanks, dude.
LikeLike
I really enjoyed reading your blog, but I understand that sometimes you have to let things go. All the best to you, Mike.
LikeLike
This is sad news ;( But I wish you the best of luck with your writing!
LikeLike
I have really enjoyed your blog and will definitely miss it. But you have to do what’s right for you and your family. Good luck!! And thank you!!
LikeLike
Thanks so much!
LikeLike
Figures I would find your blog just after you stopped blogging! I have enjoyed reading your work and will probably go through all you’ve written on the site. Good-luck.
LikeLike
Thanks, I appreciate that!
LikeLike
I’ve wondered what happened to you. and this blog post now answered that question. Really sad to see another good blogger go. I enjoyed your posts and your comments on my blog as well. All the best and maybe let us know when your novel is out???
LikeLike
Well thank you very much, that makes me feel very special. I’ve toyed with coming back, but life is still busy and I’m figuring things out. I’ll let you know about the novel, though. Thanks again.
LikeLike
Yes! Please do! And I get “busy and trying to figure things out!!!” I am there with ya! Social media is tough to navigate through. I pray God gives you discernment through it all. If you have twitter my handle is @reidpublishing1 and fb is /letsmovemountains. Blessings, Olivia
LikeLike
Hey, thanks for the warning of blog consuming! Congratulations with your little one–the time is precious and evaporates. Really. Enjoy your journey and keep being-and finding new ways to be creative for the King! His reflection in you is one-of-a-kind.
Love from Holland,
Jasmine
LikeLike
Thank you very much. Little secret, though…might be coming back at some point soon.
LikeLiked by 1 person