On Failed Parachute (poem) by Taylor Ryan on AuthorsDen

Reviewed by Karla Dorman, The StormSpinner

Reviewed on September 1, 2007

Taylor,

The wheelchair is an extention of his talent, his God given ability to be a winner, no matter the odds. A most beautifully inspiring write: being disabled myself, I forget the blessings of just BEING. Alive. Thank you for the reminder: well done.

(((HUGS))) and love, karla.

Reviewed by Butch Howard (Reader)

Reviewed on July 15, 2007

This is a masterpiece of admiration which aptly conveys the awesome power of the human spirit through powerful words and images which took me back to a memory of having to come to terms with the possibility of losing my own ability to walk, after sustaining spinal injuries in an auto accident. Your word choice here and the emotions you stir is beyond anything I could ever hope to attain in my own work. I am both inspired and amazed at your poem and at your dedication to the giving of your time and talents for the benefit of others! This poem tells me there is something very special about the author, in that it reflects the beauty of the poet's own compassion, character, heart and soul.
Your grateful fan,
~Butch Howard

Reviewed by H. Lena Jones

Reviewed on August 14, 2006

Ryan, Your friend is a true inspiration to those of us who still have all limbs intact...but make excuses why we can't do things like sports! I admire this gentleman greatly. My best to him as he plays the sport I love to watch and play. It boggles my mind how he accomplishes the feat, but he certainly inspires me to persevere. Thank you for sharing this post.

God Bless
Lena

Reviewed by Connie Faust

Reviewed on August 9, 2006

This is wonderful! An inspiring portrait of the inner man
who rose from his tragedy to a new life where triumph is
still his goal. Beautifully done.
Connie

Reviewed by Kate Clifford (Reader)

Reviewed on August 9, 2006

this is what makes the Champion :-) Others would of looked at this as defeat. He knew the difference and it is his style that will teach many others to get on with life and enjoy it fully at all times. Thank you for this sharing.

Reviewed by Tinka Boukes

Reviewed on August 9, 2006

Most beautiful tribute Taylor!!

Thanks for sharing!!

Love Tinka

Reviewed by George Carroll

Reviewed on August 8, 2006

A dominant spirit can over come tragedy.

Reviewed by A PAX

Reviewed on August 8, 2006

A wonderful tribute to the human spirit....
so much is possible in life, with the right attitude and drive
bravo
pax A

Reviewed by Kate Burnside

Reviewed on August 7, 2006

This makes me weep with both a surge of victorious energy and with a sob of compassion. You devote your time well, Taylor. Psychologically, some athletes find it almost impossible to refind their worth once their apparent strengths have been forfeited, but some struggle through to the higher level of fortitude that you speak of here. This kind of thing makes me truly passionate. I attend a Sports Training Village which is a national centre for the training of national and international athletes... I can testify to the passion and impressive presence which the para-olympians bring to the environment which generates a culture of determination and resiliance... and respect. Awesome, thank you and bless you. Reborn indeed. LOL Kate xx

Reviewed by Phyllis Jean Green

Reviewed on August 7, 2006

F a n t a s t i c. Not only have you created a greatly inspiring
poem about a greatly inspiring individual, you have done it
with verve and originality. Attention to imagery that speaks of
talent and discipline on your part, as well. B R A V O~~!!!
'Pea' <3

Reviewed by Damien Rickner

Reviewed on August 6, 2006

An inspiring tribute. Play on.

Reviewed by Suzie Palmer

Reviewed on August 4, 2006

"A vision... in conflict with
Man's concept of physical perfection.
But by who's standard is he truly compared?"
Fantastic question and fantastic write Taylor!
Michael is an inspiration! Thank you for sharing him and the work you do away from AD! You rub shoulders with incredible souls ... as you are!
Love, Suzie :-D

Reviewed by J. Allen Wilson

Reviewed on August 3, 2006

This is such an excellent tribute...I have often marveled at those who seem to overcome odds that break many asuder...this is very inspiring Taylor...thanks for sharing.

Allen

Reviewed by jude forese

Reviewed on August 3, 2006

wonderful tribute to a man of endurance ...

Reviewed by Susan de Vegter

Reviewed on August 3, 2006

You can knock a man down but you can't make him die and this pen is a fine example of this old saying of my fathers'. In the worst tragedies a man can face... this young man rose above and proved that to conquere the physical is a fete that man is capable of in any capacity if he truly believes in himself. Your pen is a look at a hero and this man is just this for children of any fate...he rose above and made the word brave....winner, a possibility for anyone to achieve no matter the physical condition.

Taylor...you are one Hell of a Champ for this pen...and a hell of a woman!

susan

Reviewed by Rhonda Galizia

Reviewed on August 3, 2006

Taylor, you dazzle us with this glorious tribute to Michael, a giant of a man, with an unconquerable spirit!

Hats off, to Michael and all those who overcome...and to you, dearest Taylor, for using your gift, to acknowledge them!

God bless you!
Love, Rhonda

Reviewed by Peter Paton

Reviewed on August 3, 2006

Taylor

A real true grit story, that shows that guts and spirit will overcome all obstacles and barriers in life..

Michael is a true champion in every sense of the word, as he has stared down adversity, and decided that attack is the best form of defense !

You have penned a truly ingratiating and engaging tribute from the well of your remarkable soul..

Love and Prayers
Peter

Reviewed by Richard Cederberg

Reviewed on August 3, 2006

An excellent tribute to an undaunted and courageous soul. The image reveals a man deeply focused, strong, and willing to persevere against all odds. I salute Michael in respect!

I commend this loving write! It takes an intelligent and passionate soul to do such!

In fraternity ...
Richard Lloyd Cederberg

Reviewed by Miss Pandora (Reader)

Reviewed on August 3, 2006

True grit...'his spirit resounds'through this truly thought provoking tribute to your friend. Stunning work Taylor. Glad to see you back my friend - hope the coach survived! LOL Love Panda :)

Reviewed by Regis Auffray

Reviewed on August 3, 2006

Thank you for sharing this wonderful tribute, Taylor. Love and peace to you,

Regis

Reviewed by Andy Turner (Reader)

Reviewed on August 3, 2006

blimey all these words mesmerisied my little brain thingy..
Just hit rebatch and hit 320/240 on jpeg if yer can... Other wise just show us a big one...

Reviewed by Myrna Badgerow

Reviewed on August 3, 2006

You know that I would love this poem.. this tribute to a winner! In that I do not mean the game of tennis but the spirit of life...may those who see him understand that his limitations are his own to decide and not what others may place upon him. EXCELLENT Taylor!!!

Myrna

Reviewed by E T Waldron

Reviewed on August 3, 2006

Taylor, this is a splendid tribute to Michael and all who strive in the game under such adverse conditions! I love tennis my favorite sport, and to watch them leaves me in awe!I'm looking forward to the open!Remarkable poem!Bless you!

Love,
Eileen

Reviewed by Mr. Ed

Reviewed on August 3, 2006

This man...this athlete...this inspiration,
A champion reborn.

And a most wonderful ode to him, Taylor.

Reviewed by Jerry Bolton (Reader)

Reviewed on August 3, 2006

Ah ha!! Wonderful, uplifting and proud poem about a proud man who, it seems is make everyone around him that much . . . Yep . . . You guessed it . . . Prouder! Great poem. Great guy. Great poet.