Hi Everyone,
It’s become a bit of a tradition to send everyone an end of year message, so in preparation, I took a look back at last year’s message and was part surprised, part comforted that so much of it still rang true for this year.
Again, we’ve faced quite a difficult year, with many of us facing significant challenges. These continue to include financial constraints brought on by decreasing budgets and increasing costs, loneliness, the loss of friends and loved ones and, of course, poor health. Then there’s politics, ever-deteriorating international relations, war, extreme weather… The list goes on and on. It often feels like events are on a forever downwards spiral so, in an effort to protect my own mental health and lift my spirits and those around me, I choose to focus on the good things.
Pen to Print celebrated its 10-year anniversary which is a fantastic achievement, made possible by the wonderful Pen to Print community and creatives who have contributed to the project over the last decade. I am so proud of the team here at Dagenham Library and their tireless dedication to deliver such quality time and time again. It has been such an uplifting experience to look back on the past ten years, reflect on where we started and how far we’ve come. And it has been extra special to have long-time members as well as people new to the project approach us and thank us for what we do and the community we are building. We couldn’t do this without all of you getting involved and sharing your creativity. To echo last year’s message – that’s why Pen to Print exists: to bring together writers, poets, artists and readers into our growing community network. Writing can be such an important form of expression and release and, if you’re part of Pen to Print, being a writer needn’t be a lonely occupation, either. What’s the point of going through the trials and thrills of creativity if you can’t share it with people who can celebrate, commiserate and lift you up? We’re here for all of that.
In case you missed it, here is our celebration montage from our in person anniversary event:
This year’s Write On! magazines have been exceptional. Circulation has increased, showcasing our talented pool of writers and contributors to a growing readership and I’m pleased to say the Write On! volunteer team continues to grow and develop. Although, of course, we are always looking to welcome new people. Write On! also celebrated its five-year anniversary which is a fantastic achievement. We can’t wait to see what the magazine will deliver in 2025.
As we celebrate Christmas and the New Year, we know there will be difficult times ahead with many more challenging decisions to be made. However, we believe that if we are supporting others and being supported by an amazing network of friends, we can get through anything together.
We can’t wait to see what 2025 brings and look forward to discovering this new year together.
