Rain or Shine

The rain is again pouring down and the wind is strong enough to blow you away. Fortunately, I didn’t suffer from the recent flooding. Instead, I was treated to a rare visit to the pub as we couldn’t go anywhere else due to road closures. Others did suffer though. Power cuts, being evacuated for safety, belongings, and memories washed away. Some have even lost their lives. The result, we are told, of climate change.

Why am I writing about climate change and the effects of flooding? Because it’s something that I feel passionate about. It’s an emotive subject. To some, it’s already a catastrophic event.

To a writer, it’s also an opportunity to make a difference, to raise awareness - a call to action. You don’t need to be a journalist to get your voice heard or opinion noted.

Many writers have written about situations that have adversely impacted their lives. It not only helps the writer to come to terms with what they have gone through but it also gives insight and even support to their readers.

Writing about real-life situations can be difficult, especially if you are trying to write objectively. Research and reputable sources of information are key to writing about current events. You should be aware of any political influence upon the source of your information; newspaper’s typically edge towards a left or right-wing view and some focus on sensationalism for sales figures rather than giving a proportionate viewpoint. This can also be said of various websites and blogs, especially since the rise of ‘fake news’.

Government websites and journals can be a valuable source of information if you require hard figures or statistics. Whilst local newspapers and libraries often record similar historical events and how they have impacted upon local communities and individuals.

Think about the brighter side of life too. Many local publications, magazines, and newspapers will consider publishing articles on a multitude of topics, such as a piece featuring local wildlife or how a charitable event has benefited a local school. So whatever brightens your day, or darkens your mood, why not consider writing an article about it. You could even end up with your own column in the local newspaper!