This is my submission for the Pay it Forward Curation Contest run by Hive account@thedarkhorse and Hive account@pifc.

This is also my first week actually participating in the contest as an entrant, although I have had the honor of being an nominee! I love the spirit of the contest, because it's such a great way to "trickle down" some of the love you get and "pay it forward!" Anyhow, for my first round of submissions, I picked two gentlemen who I have followed since nearly the beginning of their time on Steemit. They both consistently put out quality content and have excellent engagement with others.

Political Philosopher

Those of you who enjoy thoughtful and well-researched commentary on the origins of modern political thought will find a lot to love at this blog. But beyond the politics, Hive account@yintercept (Rep 46) has a fascinating way of writing as a kind of passive observer of his own life. I thoroughly enjoy his anecdotes. He has a soft spot for architectural photography, and you'll regularly find pictures of interesting buildings and cityscapes on his blog.

He just posted this the other day, and I have to say I would recommend it to just about anybody. Especially anyone who lives in the United States. I don't want to give too much context away, because it will ruin what I think is one of the most jaw-dropping endings I have ever seen on a Steemit post. So go have a look!

Beyond that, Hive account@yintercept always posts lengthy and thoughtful replies to comments on his work, and he also stops by my own posts on a regular basis to add his unique perspective on life to the questions I raise. He is one of my most valued followers, and I think he deserves a much wider audience.

Jiu-Jitsu and Disc Golf, Anyone?

For someone who doesn't post very frequently to Steemit, Hive account@disc-jitsu87 (Rep 39) has the perfect type of blog: laser focused on the two topics he is most interested about. And you want to know the truth? I'm really not all that interested in Jiu-Jitsu or Frisbee Golf, but I still faithfully follow him. Why? Because I enjoy reading his work. He's a great writer, and beyond that, the true passion he has for these topics oozes out in each post. I'm sure you have all read things written by someone who truly loves the subject they are writing about -- it makes a huge difference and pulls you in even if you're not interested in the subject itself.

Beyond that, he's another faithful and valued follower of mine who is always stopping by to say hey and offer his own thoughts and feedback on the things I care about. His niche blog is not for everyone, but then again, maybe it is, because good writing by a passionate author is for everyone, right? So go check out his latest post for a recap of a recent practice as he gears up for competition season this fall.

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