From a Previous Huffpost Contributor: Farewell and Thank You

As Huffpost Contributor Platform Shuts Down, I Say: Thank You

As a Huffpost contributor, I can honestly say it's a sad day, no matter how rational or reasonable the decision is.

You may have heard that the Huffpost contributor platform was shut down today. For writers like me, it's a sad day. This platform allowed writers both big and small to write pieces and post them on Huffpost's website. From there, Huffpost reviewed posts and decided which to categorize, promote, and share with the world. Over the past year, I've been fortunate to have many articles promoted, including on the front page. It's been a wild ride that I'm so sad to see end.

My journey with Huffpost began over a year ago with an article called"Prince Charming Doesn't Exist." On a whim, I emailed Ms. Arianna Huffington herself to pitch my article about love and marriage. I was new to blogging and the world of news. I was a published author who wanted to spread my message about simple romance, about real romance. Arianna gave me that chance, complimenting my piece and giving me an in to the Huffpost Contributor Platform. I was ecstatic. 

Over the years, this platform has meant so much to me, a small writer trying to share her words. I've been able to open myself up to the world and to share ideas with so many. I've written about being a childless adult, married life, simple love, teaching, and so many other topics. I've learned how to interact with others online, how to improve my writing, and how to connect.

I want to say this above all today: I am forever thankful to Huffpost for this opportunity. You allowed me to grow as a writer. You helped me find confidence in my voice and my message. You gave me more than just a platform to share my ideas--you gave me faith in myself as a writer that I had ideas worth spreading. I will forever be grateful for every article you promoted, every front-page placement, and every opportunity to share my words.

I won't lie... I'm devastated that starting today, my sharing of words will look different. I was always proud to see the Huffpost emblem on my words. Still, I know all is not lost. I have the confidence to go forth and share my writing, to talk about what matters to me, and to share my visions. I will just have to find a new place to do that.

So again, thank you Huffpost for the opportunity and for the platform. I'm sad to see it go, but I know all change is hard. Who knows what opportunity this will bring next for you, for me, and for all of the other contributors who called your platform home for years.

Xoxo,

Lindsay Detwiler, Author