Chapter 1: The Beauty of Scars

Scars can be seen as symbols of our experiences, much like badges we display with a sense of pride. We all carry them—marks of past struggles, failures, and challenges. These scars are not merely reminders of pain; they hold a unique beauty and individuality that distinguishes us from others. Without them, our lives would lack the distinctive qualities that help us stand out.

"Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars," — Kahlil Gibran.

It’s important to clarify that enduring hardship isn't a prerequisite for greatness. Instead, it’s about recognizing that challenges refine us and add richness to our character. When I ventured into online writing about three years ago, I was unaware of the creative potential within me. The onset of COVID left me confined at home, often bored and surrounded by the same few people. I believe many can relate to that feeling.

Reflecting on my past, I remember journaling consistently from a young age. Writing became a coping strategy for me, a way to navigate the complexities of growing up in a fractured family. Wealth means little if the family unit is broken. My diary was a private sanctuary where I poured out my thoughts and emotions—thoughts that my family has never fully understood.

I reached a point of desperation where I craved to write freely but feared the judgment of others. I was tired of ripping out pages and longed for my voice to resonate. In 2020, I joined HubPages, a platform that initially stifled my spirit, leading me to believe that my writing lacked value. I began to feel like a mere bard, destined for recognition only posthumously.

I often declared, "I don’t write for money." HubPages created an environment that made me question the worth of my creativity. It’s disheartening to think of how some platforms can diminish the creative spirit, relegating writers to the status of hobbyists.

The treatment I received from HubPages was beyond disappointing. Had I been weaker, I might have abandoned writing altogether. I write not just to cope but to breathe and find clarity in my surroundings. Yet, admitting I don’t write for financial gain would be untruthful.

In one instance, a disagreement with a long-time HubPages writer led to me facing a one-month suspension from their forums, while her punishment was merely three days. Factors like race and nationality undoubtedly played a role in this disparity. After receiving a threatening email from a HubPages staff member, warning of a permanent ban, I felt utterly crushed.

In three years, I earned less than seventy-five dollars from HubPages, withdrawing fifty dollars only once. While financial loss was minimal, the platform shattered my creative spirit, making me doubt my worth.

"The world breaks everyone, and afterward, some are strong at the broken places," — Ernest Hemingway.

After that distressing email, I left HubPages the very same day. Though my account remains active, my creative spirit bore a lasting scar. However, I refused to let that experience extinguish my passion. Instead, I turned to Medium, where I found community and support. My writing was valued, and I established a publication that allowed me to uplift voices from diverse backgrounds.

Our scars represent the moments of our struggles and the resilience we’ve built. I wear mine proudly as a testament to my journey as a writer, editor, and publisher. They remind me of the impact I’ve made and the relationships I’ve cultivated in the writing community. Today, I am proud to be recognized on Medium as one of its boost nominators.

Philosopher Albert Camus once said, "In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer." My scars are a reminder of the winters I’ve endured and the enduring strength within me that has allowed me to prevail.

I am grateful for the friends who supported me along the way, even as some connections faded. Life evolves us, and we often drift apart. One person who consistently stood by me was Nour Boustani. His encouragement and companionship have been invaluable, providing clarity amid chaos and inspiring my creative expressions.

Though my journey continues, I recognize that I have gained more than I’ve lost. I’ve carved out a place for myself despite external ridicule. I am proud of my journey!

I embrace my scars as badges of honor, symbols of resilience and individuality. They enrich my life’s canvas, connecting us through shared human experiences. Our scars help us stand out, reinforcing what it means to be human.

"There is a crack in everything; that's how the light gets in," — Leonard Cohen.

Today, I stand confidently in my uniqueness, believing I will overcome any remaining struggles. I am like a tree branch offering shade, nurturing others while knowing I will bear fruit. It can be painful at times, but my kindness and resilience will serve me well.

In closing, remember this: your creativity deserves recognition and appreciation. If a platform has made you feel otherwise, it’s time to break free! Writers deserve to be celebrated and compensated for their work.

Invest in your craft, aim for a higher purpose, and let your creativity flourish. Allow your words to be a refuge, nourishing souls and minds. Embrace your journey, with all its scars and victories, and let your creativity shine. Inspire others to recognize their worth and pursue their dreams.

Your creativity has the potential to transform not just your life but the world around you. If you doubt this, look to my story as proof that resilience and creativity can illuminate even the darkest paths. Let your scars be the guiding light and motivation for others to embrace their own struggles and achievements. Be creative in every facet of life!

May your journey be filled with growth, inspiration, and the courage to always express your true self.

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— © Misbah Sheikh 2024

Chapter 2: From Darkness to Light

In this video, Brian Vallelunga discusses the concept of "Failing Upwards," exploring how setbacks can become stepping stones for greater achievements.

Chapter 3: Lessons Learned from Failure

This video delves into the hard-earned lessons from purpose-driven startups, emphasizing the growth that comes from failure and resilience.