As a fellow writer, I commend you for your successful career writing and teaching writing. That you make a living at your craft is remarkable. To make others' writing readable is quite an accomplishment and I'm sure your clients more than appreciate you. From where I stand, you have much to offer the Writing Group, and I look forward to your contributions. I belong to a book club, where sometimes our selections are not those I'd ordinarily read, so I can sorta relate to your "prisoner of war" characterization. Very funny, by the way!
I like writing humor, and have published several pieces through the years. Have also published a chapbook, including essays, short stories, and the occasional poem, many based on my own experiences. Not looking for great success in the literary world, but I am working on a novel I intend to self-publish.
There's no need to feel guilty about lurking. Thanks for sharing your writer's journey. We have much to learn from you. Look forward to future posts and words of wisdom!