Change is probably the only constant.

One reason for a revision to the website is that my licence as a Marriage Celebrant was not renewed. It would seem that there is a numerical threshold of ceremonies necessary to renew a licence. While I was very disappointed, I was also very grateful. I have been blessed by meeting many fine people and sharing with them, their very special day. And in some beautiful settings which I would otherwise not visit.

Thank you to all couples who had faith in me to help them arrange a ceremony to suit their circumstances.

I will also concentrate on proof reading and editing work. I still enjoy writing and will note down thoughts from time to time.

One aim of the Creative Writing course I deliver, by telling a story, is to communicate more effectively. Considering this more closely, the reason for the communication has to be considered. Is it communicating information, or trying to persuade? And if it is to persuade, for what purpose? It might be instructive through teaching or training. This would seem to be a good reason to be a good communicator.

However, persuasion can also have other intentions. Hence my reservations about copy writing. Advertising or marketing – whose differentiation is noted – can be a lucrative income source. If your writing is able to create increased sales for your employer, you can share in revenue increases. The consequences of this skill might not be so helpful for consumers. What is bought as a result might be of great help, or it could be unnecessary consumerism which put a strain on family budgets.

If the economic argument of increasing GDP as the measurement of progress and prosperity, then buying things is essential – especially as many service contributions are not counted. But buying for the sake of buying is effectively creating societal and environmental damage. This is an ongoing discussion which is further complicated when politics is added. And not obvious solution in sight, yet.

So the ethical conflict attached to copy writing overcame the desire to increase family income. This is even when this skill is applied to non-profit organisations. Seems the ‘business model’ is to be applied widely and override a voluntary ethos.

So, for the immediate future, my writing will be directed to improving the Creative Writing courses, these Musings and editorial and articles for Many to Many.