Why write? Why publish?

I recently attended the best conference ever! The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators conference was held in Redmond Wa, this year. I learned so much over the course of the weekend. So much that I am still digesting it all! I seriously had a headache the following Monday! LOL But the conference was everything I could ever imagine it to be. Everyone was so nice, helpful and supportive of each other. The keynote speakers were for the most part all very talented and very motivating. One of the speakers was the creator of the cartoon, The Replacements! One of my favorite cartoons of all times! (Yes, I still watch cartoons <.<. don't judge me :p) Dan Santat's story along with Deborah Wiles' story proved that with hard work, dedication and true love for what you believe in, you will succeed.

One of the speakers posed a question, why do you write and said that if the only reason you are writing is to simply get published, then you are writing for the wrong reason. That struck a chord in my heart. Why do I write. Honestly, I really don't care whether I get published or not. Fame and fortune are not a high priority for me. Truthfully, I love my day job. I love working with young children. I love that I am a part of shaping the lives and early education of these young children. So why do I write. Why do I want to be a published author of children's books? I write so that my stories can touch the lives of children everywhere. As much as I would love to meet every child, love every child, care for every child and educate every child, I physically can not do it. But if my stories can enter their homes, schools, childcare centers or libraries, then I feel like my role as a loving teacher and caregiver will be fulfilled.

So why do YOU write? What is your motivation for being a published author?