It seems to require dedication, discipline and sense of purpose bordering on obsession. As you search for the words to describe the most mundane activities, you find yourself at a loss. The perception of your own observant nature is shattered as you try to create or re-create realistic dialogue or descriptions of people and places.

You are more grateful than ever for all of the colorful and quirky people you've encountered. You find yourself searching through your own personal closet of experiences, fears and weaknesses in the hope the main character can overcome what you have not. You gain a whole new appreciation for the authors you've admired and even those you've dismissed.

You promise to notice the smallest of details and look at everything with a more critical eye from this point on. You promise to read more and pay closer attention when reading. You promise to improve your grammar, technique and vocabulary so future self-expression will flow with greater ease and eloquence.

You can observe a lot by watching. - Yogi Berra