I’m sorry you feel I’m wasting your time. I’d love an editor. Indeed, I’ve tried to hire one a few times. One wouldn’t do it because she disagreed with what I had to say. Another was too busy. Another said she’d do it then disappeared. Anyway, I’ve tried.

I’ve read countless writing books. My first college English professor didn’t hand back my first assignment, he threw it at me, it wafted in the air and fell on the floor. I wanted to write for my high school paper but Ms. Tryfous said I wasn’t capable. Fortunately, no one wanted to cover sports (not even me) so she let me join in the end.

I wish I could write like Adam Gopnik or probably, even you. I can’t. It is not for lack of trying. I’m 60 years old. Every time I re-read one of my pieces I find something to fix.

So why do I write? Why do I waste your time?

I write because I believe I see a truth in something. I write because there are readers who thank and even compliment me on my observations (it keeps me going). You can see for yourself if you read through more of my stories. Again, I wish I could write well. Rereading my pieces is always painful for me. Always. I see what you see. I try my best. But eventually I reach a limit in my abilities.

If you’d like to be my editor I’m all for trying it out!
You say you “think” I am wrong about low wages in Saudi Arabia. Then tell me the facts. Why should I go research something I’ve already studied? And even if I was wrong then why does that lead to much of my article being faulty? If it’s wrong with Saudi Arabia does it make it wrong about Russia? It’s connecting the unconnected that drives my writing. The people who enjoy my writing look beyond my faults.

Finally, Don, I go out there and put it on the line. I write. I’ve written over 120 stories here on Medium. I’ve watched some of my stories get 20 views and 1 read — painful. I’ve seen through those numbers readers having the same reaction you had. Have you done that? Where is your writing? Perhaps you believe writing on certain subjects is easier than it is, in practice?

My arguments are complex. They pull in many subject areas. I never write a piece I have already read somewhere else. That is my first question before I write anything — has this already been said before by someone else? If so, I just link to it.

We all have our strengths and weaknesses. To me, the only question is going out and doing it, if you believe in something. You don’t think I could easily stop writing (wasting your time), open a beer and watch TV all day? I could.

Thanks for the comment! I know you’re just trying to help.