I'm relatively new to Medium.com as a content provider and reader. Truthfully, I had just heard of Medium as a digital publishing site when several links and mentions appeared on a discussion board about Zettelkasten. So, I created a membership and began publishing simultaneously from Linda’s Brick Bran site late in 2022.
The first person I started to follow was a self-described writer, lifelong learner, sense-maker, and philosophy enthusiast. Plus, her articles were free for me to read. There are interesting arguments for and against the Medium Partner Program. Perhaps that is an article for another time; however, even though I have purchased a membership to read everyone's content, this individual's writings remain accessible to whoever chooses to consume her wonderfully written words.
I've wanted to thank her and other content providers on and off Medium with whom I have learned so much, so I created a Medium Publication entitled "Following the Scribbler." My stated intention was to give "credit where credit is due," feeling that if I started a space to "recognize people who have made a difference in my life through their shared words," I might have an opportunity to highlight various ideas gathered from multiple authors.
We all track this information anyway, in the form of citations and references; however, I was hoping to provide deeper insight into the specific articles, words, and ah-ha moments that will forever change my life or, at the very least, change the way I write or process information.
I completed my first article, "Following Medium content provider X," I deleted the name because, upon completing the 500-word essay, I couldn't bring myself to publish. Why? Fear. Fear of having the article misunderstood as anything more than it is, a thank you card to an author, and the hope that others will benefit from her work.
As I scroll back and forth between her writings and the other content providers I follow, I can't wait to read the numerous thought-provoking titles each has so willingly crafted.
But because we live in such strange times, I'll have to settle for a broad, generic thank you to the content providers on Medium and the many independent writers I follow; your words have meant more to me than you will know. So, for now, at least, I've decided to scrub the "Scribbler" publication; however, with each citation, please know you have my deepest gratitude for your words.
Written February 23, 2023