My voice bothers me. Hearing my intonation on an answering machine or a message makes me wince. But there’s not really a thing I can do to change this, is there? Sure, I often enjoy cigars, and think perhaps this will give my pipes a deeper, raspier tone, but I don’t honestly trust it’ll Barry White my inflection.

And not only is it the sound of my voice, but many times I don’t like the words coming out of my mouth. Think of it -- who hasn’t wanted a do-over of that time (OK, times) you made a pass at the blonde at the end of the bar? Or when debating health care reform? When people talk, they can change their words over and over. And again. It’s irksome; there’s no staying power, especially in a society where greed and deceit are ubiquitous.

So I write. I fervently prefer the written word to its spoken counterpart. In the words of Faulkner, “I never know what I feel about something until I read what I’ve written about it.” For me, there’s a lot of truth in that statement. Indeed, I may know which way my views lean on a particular topic without writing on it, but until I scribe a page or so, I doubt I’ll adequately justify my view in a succinct manner. Writing -- especially under the influence of a bold dark roast or glass of red -- helps clarify thoughts and provides insight into the person writing the words. It tells about that person, and why they believe what they do.

You’re probably thinking to yourself -- “Trevor sooo kept a diary when he was a kid.” I actually didn’t, thank you, but wish that I had. I can say with certainty that had I scribbled down my daily thoughts 10 to 15 years ago, I’d be a better writer today. I probably would’ve also decided on a career in writing before I did; although, as I’ve said before, I do feel fortunate that I decided on journalism as early as the 11th or 12th grade.

Writing and reporting for a living is a pleasure. Truly, it is. It’s no secret the pay isn’t a vast perk, but connecting with people is one. And discovering yourself is another. More times than not, when people ask what I do for work and I tell them, I’m met with an “oh, that sounds so fun.” Yep, it is.

You know how they say that people who stay both physically and mentally active throughout their lives keep healthier minds into their elder state? Well, if my lifestyle doesn’t do me in before I reach those autumn years, which is a complete tossup, I like to think I’ll grow to be a wise old chap. And my writing hundreds of words each day will be largely to thank.