Pearls of Wisdom: A Smart Dog's Tale (Book) - 11/1/2018 1:06:07 PM
Tell Pearly Girl congratulations on her book. I would cash her as soon as possible because the writing dog certainly must be worth millions. But I see your point, making use of her to make big bucks selling books of her wisdom.
I've seen the articles written by her and know whence forth she comes. Usually soaking wet with a dead duck in her mouth. A good provider for dinner.
Ron
Pearls of Wisdom: A Smart Dog's Tale (Book) - 11/1/2018 11:56:16 AM
I am more likely to apply this wisdom about success and happiness because it is coming from a very smart, successful English Springer Spaniel dog named Pearly-Girl and not from me or any other self-help writer. This book is dedicated to a few of my closest friends who have already confirmed the value of the information from their own life experiences.
You Can Have Your Cheese & Eat It Too. (Book) - 10/5/2009 7:51:05 AM
YOU CAN HAVE YOUR CHEESE AND EAT IT TOO
Written by William S. Cottringer
Published in 2001
Introduction
This is a self help book in which the writer has tried to show us how we can get past the confusions and chaos of our daily life and be successful in our ventures. It motivates us to dream and be keen to fulfill them. It helps us to look into the simplicities of life for finding the solutions to our life.
Summary
The writer has taken example of two very naughty cats and two very smart mice. The cats are always focused on creating problems, confusions and chaos in the life of the mice. But the mice are very smart they always find solutions to the problems that are created for them till the time comes that everything gets so messed up that nobody, neither the cats nor the mice, can find out what’s happening around them. The writer has tried to show us how we focus on wrong things in our life and create confusion and chaos for ourselves. This is why we think we can’t have our cheese and eat it too. According to him we are always trying to change things to our liking before even knowing what we really want, so, first we should change ourselves according to the prevailing conditions and analyze where we are and where we want to be. By applying simplicity to our life we can easily bridge this gap.
Critical analysis
It is a perfect self help book in which the writer has illustrated very well how simplicity can solve many big problems of our life which, sometimes, are created by ourselves
The Bow-Wow Secrets (Book) - 2/18/2006 6:14:53 AM
I love the idea of the simple wisdom of the dog. Bow wow.
The Bow-Wow Secrets (Book) - 2/15/2006 1:09:21 AM
Congratz on the book!!
Souns like a winner to me....love the cover....it tells a thousand tales!!
love Tinka
You Can Have Your Cheese & Eat It Too. (Book) - 2/3/2003 4:27:26 PM
How sweet it is! Even a small amount of understanding and compassion can truly change a hard cored individual into a warm hearted soul. Love is the key to happiness, happiness is the road to success, success leads to rewards, rewards are smiles, and smiles are crown jewels. We all need to pass along crown jewels! Loved the excerpt.
Joyce Rapier
authorsden.com/joycelrapier
You Can Have Your Cheese & Eat It Too. (Book) - 12/21/2002 6:00:39 PM
I ordered the book and thought is was wonderful. Very please with all of the advice.
You Can Have Your Cheese & Eat It Too. (Book) - 9/22/2002 6:22:53 PM
I am the author's oldest daughter. I have to tell you that my dad has a mind I long for. This book is so creative and it can make life much more simple for us all.
You Can Have Your Cheese & Eat It Too. (Book) - 8/30/2002 6:16:37 AM
I'm not saying this is a great book, just because the author is my granddad, but..that helps. Seriously, you should read this clear map of life.
You Can Have Your Cheese & Eat It Too. (Book) - 8/30/2002 4:59:22 AM
Great little book-- must reading for people who are wanting more out of life and who want to close the gap between where they are and where they really want to be. Excellent insights!
Riley Meets Suzie (Short Story) - 7/22/2021 3:12:02 PM
What a delightful story! I'm glad to have taken the time to read this. I kept smiling all through your words!
Sandie :)
Young Bobby's Super-sized Success Quest (Short Story) - 2/16/2017 11:38:57 AM
I found the allegory presented to be quite interesting, as if one good find a place where all of these life experiences could be merely picked up and consumed. For most of us, we have to live them because they don't come to us that easily--especially when we are young. I still find it amazing how easily I went from being totally dependent on my parents to totally independent. But it took a lot of learning from about age 7 to 18 where I could do that. Many couldn't. Two times I moved back home for brief periods of my parents' support. The first, because of sudden severe disability and needed rehabilitation, and the second was was to ease the transition between jobs.
I also thought of the 17-year-old who recently won $1 million in the lottery. Apparently, the money made her very unhappy and she's looking for someone to blame.
Ron
The Two Things God Wants From You (Short Story) - 2/2/2017 2:43:50 AM
well said, thought provoking read, holds reader interest
Never Stop Writing !
m
Why I Should Be Parolled Now (Short Story) - 2/2/2017 2:42:12 AM
interesting read, well said
Never Stop Writing !
m
Why I Should Be Parolled Now (Short Story) - 1/23/2017 7:51:24 AM
I really like your writing and find you to be one of the finest writers here. But this story bothers me for some reason. First, I don't know if it's fact or fiction. It seems to be factual because of all the detail. If that's true, it should, perhaps, read like a documentary. Basically, all that description with no conversation nor action, reads like an article. When you finally get to action with Sam's testimony at his hearing, it also seems to be totally factual description coming out of his mouth with no real emotion even though it's supposed to be about, "empathy."
I write both stories and scientific articles. I literally become two different kinds of writer when I change venues. My stories are all about what's happening to the character and the drama. Even my true stories involve action. I don't see that in this story--sorry.
You must be using a voice dictation system like me, because there are a lot of wrong words in the text. This can be easily cleaned up.
Ron
Accidental Friends (Short Story) - 1/17/2016 11:12:02 AM
Got 1969 Ron. Thanks. Bill C,
Accidental Friends (Short Story) - 1/17/2016 8:15:46 AM
A tale of two veterans. Very interesting. Do you know either of them? Will be looking forward to, "the rest of the story."
I think you meant that they hadn't talked since being released from active duty in 1969.
Ron
Finding a Title to Your Book (Short Story) - 2/24/2014 11:38:10 AM
Hey I am now in my 7th decade and am still fiddling with my book title. I know my mission though--you can only ge genuinely successful and authentically happy by thinking and acting the right way to get there! Bill C.
Finding a Title to Your Book (Short Story) - 2/24/2014 11:29:57 AM
William: While in the Marine Corps in 1965; I had a similar experience as you in Vietnam. Actually off the coast of DaNang. I was on a search and destroy mission in the Gulf of Tonkin and we were being chased by a Russian submarine--that was trying to torpedo us. We were all ordered to General Quarters as the ship zig-zagged out of harms way. I thought then--as I lay up against the bulkhead--;a torpedo could come crashing through any moment, and we will all be blown to pieces and scattered all over the Pacific ocean. Like the others; I waited, second by second. Waiting for death.
The Two Things God Wants From You (Short Story) - 2/20/2014 7:15:12 PM
In reading this short story, I would occasionaly stop, squint my eyes, and turn my head sideways. It was as if you were telling the story of MY lifes experiences. With all due respect; I had experienced many of the same experiences as you, and traveled the same road of discovery. As a Marine in Vietnam, I had a similar experience as you. Circumstances saved my life--more than once. Like you, I had a few "angel" experiences too! Like the one when I had left the Hollywood business and headed home to "get my mind right." I was heading across the Mojave desert and climbing the long upgrade of the continental divide. The engine in my small, loaded down sports car made a loud banging sound and the engine just stopped! I prayed to God to push my car up over the mountain so that I could have a chance to coast to a gas station and fix the car. In an instant, the car just quietly rolled up the mountain to the crest and over top. I coasted to a gas station in Kingman Ariz. There, they took the engine apart and said: "your engine has exploded inside and some of the valves are missing metal!" He showed me one. I knew then that an angel had pushed me up and over, so that I could continue my journey home. True story! Only someone like you would believe me because of your own encounters. There were other more horrifying incidents in my life where God's presence was evident. There was a movie [Unbreakable] starring Bruce Willis, and in that movie, Willis was stalked by a man who wanted to find out why he doesn't die in so many accidents he is involved in. Watching that movie, I couldn't help but wonder if they had heard me tell my story to some directors in Hollywood, who took notes and wrote the script!
John
Hannah's Christmas Wish (Short Story) - 9/11/2006 4:27:21 PM
It always happens around September. I get this feeling inside of me that Christmas is on its way, and I can hardly wait! Hannah's Christmas Wish is without a doubt a good Christmas tale. Well written, well thought out. I admire that it was written with a point: Designed especially for Hannah E. Gilbert. That just welcomes the Christmas spirit! I'm all excited! Now I'm going to go home and watch Frosty the Snowman and eat sugar cookies! Keep up the good work, Will. You're a good writer.
C.S.H.
Finding a Title to Your Book (Short Story) - 8/24/2006 12:25:23 AM
Awesome read, I like your style! Your a great guy. :) R.
Hannah's Christmas Wish (Short Story) - 12/27/2005 8:57:34 AM
delightful write, very well done!
(((HUGS))) and love, your tx. friend, karen lynn. :D
Hannah's Christmas Wish (Short Story) - 12/26/2005 5:32:46 PM
Hi I am Hannah Banana and I think all children will enjoy this story. My Grandpa Bill has written this just for me. I am so excited about having my own Christmas story.
Hannah E.Gilbert
Hannah's Christmas Wish (Short Story) - 12/26/2005 2:29:16 PM
This is a precious Christmas story for young children to help teach them high self esteem. I highly recommend it as a great read to your children. Reading to children teaches interest in reading for the chilren and is quality time spent together.
The Dream (Short Story) - 6/12/2004 10:51:44 AM
An excellent and enjoyable short-story, William - enjoyed! Robert.
My Brick Wall (Short Story) - 1/31/2003 1:43:14 PM
Bill- have a great ability to share your experiences and let others learn from them. You opened many eyes to our own "brick walls" and gave us great advice on how to tear them down.
My Brick Wall (Short Story) - 1/23/2003 9:52:22 PM
I found this story of your life to be very enlightening. It opened my mind to a lot of truth and not just in a shadue of my oun prospect but in a spiritual one as well. Life is a journey for us all and full of "brick walls" as you say but I believe that for one to overcome these obsticals we must pursue our lives with great persoverence. God has a plan for us all and nothing happens for no reson at all. Our "brick walls" that we face help mold us to do His will and shape our lives, for "we are the clay and He is the potter" Isaiah 64:8.
My Brick Wall (Short Story) - 1/21/2003 6:52:20 AM
The complete truthfulness of this story is
verry helpful in times of need. It also makes
me more appreciateive of what I have in my life. This story is a blessing!
My Brick Wall (Short Story) - 1/21/2003 5:43:01 AM
The most heartfelt and honest stories are those of ones life. This one is making me reflect on my life to see how I can avoid "brick walls" so I don't live my biggest worry. Good stories do that and so do the people who write them. As we look on in our lives we can't assume that we have only good times to come. We have to reflect on our past and then look forward and make sure we don't let our pride stand in our way. Great story. I will definitely read some more.
The Control Paradox (Article) - 9/2/2026 8:57:53 PM
Another brilliant article about something that affects each and every one of us. Your advice is always solid gold.
Reminded me immediately of the poem, "Desiderata" by Max Ehrmann.
Ron
The Control Paradox (Article) - 9/2/2026 8:14:33 PM
This article can be aptly summarized by the religious mantra of "Let Go and let God. But there is a caveat to this "right." You have to earn it by (a) exhausting all the possible influences you can to affect in a situation to get the best outcome, and (b) exercising effective management of making the best response to the situation.
Challenges in Virtual Communication (Article) - 6/29/2026 1:24:53 AM
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Spiritual Development (Article) - 4/29/2026 12:03:21 PM
I enjoyed reading your work; it resonated with me and was a great read. I have always been aware of life and its mysteries. One of my favorite sayings is, "When I let go of who I am, I become what I might be."
A non-egoic state is one in which the heart is open, and acceptance and empathy can then be the force that moves us. Love is and always will be what makes us the best humans.
All the best,
Myra
Myra Wexler Darwish
Twelve Illusions of Reality That Impede Self-actualization (Article) - 11/25/2025 3:59:27 PM
Ron--You made the point I was trying to make--That the illusions are a safety net in practical matters, but once they have served that purpose in our "survival" stage, it is time to let go of them and thrive! Well thought-out and meaningful response as usual! The answer to your question--We have always loved the game hide and seek--especially the surprise of being found.
Twelve Illusions of Reality That Impede Self-actualization (Article) - 11/25/2025 11:17:11 AM
Another great article on our perception of reality. For a long time, I've been a situational existentialist. Somehow knowing that reality is in flux and the only thing that I can do is ride along with it in the present and take advantage of every opportunity that comes along.
Here are some of my thoughts on the twelve illusions:
Almost every primitive society tracked the sun. Most notably, the pyramids in Egypt and in MesoAmerica as well as Stonehedge and other stone and wood sun tracking devices found throughout the world. Used to predict the seasons, these primitive devices eventually became the foundation of time based on our sun. But we are eternally in the present and can only surmise what the past was or what the future might be.
I've been thinking of writing a short story about the impermanence of everything. Using AI to speed it up.
In speech class in college I learned that one could argue either side of a dualistic argument. I found that arguing the one that was the hardest to defend got me the highest grades.
I have built-in boundaries for myself when it comes to liquor and drugs. I love wine and liquor but never drink very much. I have never tried drugs. But I find by reading accounts of others that drugs have helped them expand their minds far greater than they would have had they not taken the drugs.
Throughout my life I always try to help those I felt are being treated unfairly. I know it's a subjective concept, but some people just don't have the luck that I've had and I don't blame them for it but try to help them get some for themselves.
I continually think of myself as very lucky when it comes to scarcity. Somehow, I've had circumstances come along that have made what seemed like a difficult life ahead a lot easier. Others, without the luck I've had have had very short lives of suffering. I'm referring to those who are quadriplegic by spinal cord injury.
Ron
Spiritual Development (Article) - 11/22/2025 4:32:28 PM
Ron--It seems to me that Religion tries to point the way, but authentic spirituality does a better job, along with poetry, music, art and literature.
Spiritual Development (Article) - 11/22/2025 2:38:44 PM
Another great article. Makes one look at spirituality in a whole different way than most people think of it.
I guess that's why I've always steered away from the traditional way of thinking about spirituality. That passed down tradition has little meaning for me in my world.
Ron
Team Intelligence (TI) (Article) - 11/17/2025 12:53:24 PM
Ron--You and I may be together on this one, as I am comfortable both working alone on projects and working together as a team. My difficulties are with virtual team building usually not allowing enough time for team members to get to know each other better for trust and in working with teams, I usually find myself doing most of the work! I have a spiritual intelligence article and assessment coming, which I would like your feedback on, if I can ever get past the denied access message when I try to post it. This happened with the current article and they loaded the article and I had to do a bunch of editing to get it right after they said the problem was fixed. I even tried a different browser and no go that way either. Very frustrating.
Team Intelligence (TI) (Article) - 11/17/2025 12:43:09 PM
Great article for teambuilding. I never thought of myself much as a team player. Especially in high school when I participated in individual sports rather than team sports
But as I read the qualifications for a good team player I found that I fit in quite well.
Ron
Three Good Reasons for Not Trying to Argue Perspectives (Article) - 7/2/2025 2:24:42 PM
The whole world spends billions on psychotherapy and drugs to deal with problems when the cure is free--love, acceptance and understanding will cure any mental problem, but getting the back story of a person's main perspectives on life and people is essential to that end.
Three Good Reasons for Not Trying to Argue Perspectives (Article) - 7/2/2025 2:18:54 PM
I can't call the number of times people seem to think they know what my perspective is. Perhaps because I've written so much and people have read it.
I credit the second speech course that I took in college to have me arguing on the unfavorable side of an issue.
But the doomsday clock and other science based measurements about the way things are should be rocking the average person's than the sensational news headlines. Mostly showing the tip of the iceberg while some people consider it to be the entire iceberg from their perspective.
Ron
Getting In Sync with The Way of Life (Article) - 1/27/2025 12:21:04 PM
I admire your efforts Ron, and you are a good model for others to follow, making the most of the cards you were doubt. I can't express my respect for you enough. These days, I only write to get these ideas that fill my head out in the open, so I can learn something else to write about, gradually testing my experience to be sure I know what I am talking about. I usually write about things we already know, but sometimes just need a nudge to remember and follow. I am with you on the e-mail thing too. Bill C.
Getting In Sync with The Way of Life (Article) - 1/26/2025 12:21:47 PM
Another great set of principles to follow by. I'm doing quite well with most of them, having slowed down greatly from my earlier life.
I have found that email as opposed to snail mail and texting call mom has greatly improved my ability to communicate with others. I rarely have to use the telephone to find out what is going on or keep up with others in my family and friends circle.
I only regret not being able to get out into life with others on a regular basis locally. Since I am basically housebound because of my disabilities.
Ron
Alphabetical Common Sense (Article) - 10/9/2024 6:57:45 PM
Agree on the last comment, but I do like odd words like Xenialize (grow forward) and I have always been a fan of Zen as the best way to manage the ego and illusion of self). I had to look up some of these letter verb lists on the Internet to get some ideas. And I don't think one-eared listening will hurt you at all with your mind and spirit!!
Alphabetical Common Sense (Article) - 10/9/2024 12:41:48 PM
I'm glad to say that I have abided in most of these long before I read this from a very young child who grew up early and never had adolescent antics that others had to do and some never grew out of.
Unfortunately, I have only been able to use my hearing aid in my left ear since I got my hearing aids a year ago. So physically only hear from the left ear, but metaphorically, I hear what you are driving at perfectly.
I think the last are a bit forced because of the lack of words that start with letter. Might I suggest Xerox, Yield and Zone as a starting for a good common sense lifestyle suggestion.
Ron
Ten Sensible Problem-Solving Strategies from the Trenches (Article) - 9/15/2024 6:37:58 PM
I agree with the good points you make here Ron. I think the real problem with today's problem solvers is the one where a sound, sensible solution may very well result in more difficult problem s to solve. Freeing the slaves was a no-brainer by any standard of human decency but even today we are still experiencing the unwanted side effects (which I think Lincoln anticipated, but was killed before he could implement the needed safeguards in the workforce).
Ten Sensible Problem-Solving Strategies from the Trenches (Article) - 9/15/2024 11:43:37 AM
I like that you follow the problem-solving strategy with a real life example. As a college professor, many principles were taught with examples like this.
You brought back many problems faced in problem- solver for a university. Higher up were always coming along with new strategies like going for the low hanging fruit that I had already harvested years before. Consultants were always approaching the administration with gravity supposedly to reduce costs like outsourcing only to cause more in the long run and line the pockets of consultants.
Finally, I am disgusted with politicians when they say they will all pay particular problem with a slogan or with a strategy that will definitely make the problem worse. The war on drugs is a classic example. Criminalizing nonviolent behavior is another. "Clean energy is not a substitute for removing carbon dioxide from the air on the fossil fuel industry's claim of carbon sequestration or scrubbing from fossil fuels.
Impeding free trade with tariffs hurts everyone and raises prices.
Ron
Our Main Perspectives in the Game of Life (Article) - 9/12/2024 4:46:32 PM
Great response Ron. I think this election, probably more than any other one of great significance, is mostly driven by emotional contagion and fear, rather than any rational facts or detailed issue plans. My next article has two problem-solving principles from Physics that are so relevant--Heisenberg's uncertainty principle and Einstein's idea of reality being an illusion. Plainly put, there are too many intervening influences in any given interaction to predict outcomes with any degree of certainty, and things aren't always what they seem to be. I think if you threw away the many villain aspects of both candidate's personalities and just left the few heroes aspects, we might have a good president. There is no doubt that this will be a close one and I am trying to be optimistic that the best candidate for being POTUS, prevails.
Our Main Perspectives in the Game of Life (Article) - 9/12/2024 9:38:38 AM
Your article is particularly appropriate for the current United States election year. One candidate is clearly a villain and the other is clearly a hero.
I pity those who don't know the difference, and am asking those victims to stop thinking that they are the only ones that are being victimized and vote for the hero because the villain is filled with false promises that will never be kept. And now is the time for bystanders to stop being out of the game and vote for change as though their lives depended upon it… And they do.
Ron
Seeing the Real Enemy (Article) - 9/2/2024 6:44:26 AM
I understand Ron...explaining such an esoteric thing like the illusion of having a separate "self" in our minds and hearts, is still much of a work in progress. I understand this, but can't come up with the words that explain how I came up with the conclusion that this is so. The only analogy of seeing the futility of the self trying to do anything is from Alan Watts with his idea of the eyes trying to see themselves, which we can understand is impossible. I think the problem here, is that your "self" has been do successful in overcoming major challenges and obstacles, that it is virtually impossible for you to deny it's existence. I hope this helps explain our difficulty herein. Thanks for being honest! Bill C.
P.S. I do think we can "survive being the fittest" better, by understanding time being more fluid than fixed and the conflict resolution of cooperation being more productive than competition.
Seeing the Real Enemy (Article) - 8/21/2024 12:58:55 PM
I found this much too philosophical for me until the very end where you summed it up very nicely.
I find it exasperating that the scientifically proven results of fossil fuel use for over 200 years is changing our atmosphere, increasing the CO2 level, with the resulting heating of the atmosphere that has clear catastrophic results if we let it continue. So far, efforts have been opposed greatly and progress has been, unfortunately, perhaps, too slow.
So it will make no difference how we perceive time and conflict. It is really very necessary from survival of the fittest survival of us all and a beautiful planet.
Ron
Better Success with More Failure (Article) - 8/4/2024 2:07:09 PM
Great review and comments Ron, per usual! Thanks! I am sure you were one of the teachers students remembered long after the class. I was very interested in hearing where your two-person team as your preference, came from. Very interesting detail showing there might have been some annoying conflicts with 3-4 person groups. Thanks again for all your support Ron. I finally got my cumulative book of poetry published through Covenant Books and it should be appearing on Amazon shortly. It proceeds the self-published "Dog Logic" that Amazon took off on-line for no good reason they would tell me.
Better Success with More Failure (Article) - 8/4/2024 1:54:33 PM
I've always accepted my failures and try to do better the next time. If I needed to correct something, I did it right away. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
I appreciate you describing thoroughly your experience in that team building class. I recall telling my fellow classmates that I learned something from even the worst professors. If nothing else, how not how to teach.
When I was assigned a textbook to use for a production management course, I soon discovered that it was filled with errors. I made sure that I taught all of the procedures correctly in class and told the students if they sensed anything wrong with reading the text, they were right, it was wrong. I based my tests on what I taught in class and not what the poorly edited book presented.
I don't know what a holacracy is either. A curveball like that can leave a group scrambling. I have found from a graduate course I took on small groups that it is often the one who talks the loudest and most, not the best person in the group, that takes leadership.
I always worked well in two-person group assignments. I always did what the other person was not good at. I learned how to work with another person well, largely because I'm a twin, and as the dominant twin, Roger worked with me on everything that I did. He never initiated anything even though he was better at some talents like writing and artistry than I was.
I often assigned group assignments in some of my classes. The work usually fell on one person to do most of it. I usually knew who that was and reward them accordingly while grading
Ron
A Sensible Spiritual Viewpoint to Seriously Consider (Article) - 6/8/2024 5:40:54 PM
You are a VERY special person Ron. I am relying on one main truth these days--the universe is fluid and potential rather than fixed and permeant. I think our minds try to stop it just like our eyes do, but it is moving so fast we can't keep up with it.
The Tao of Love (Poetry) - 3/5/2026 1:30:15 PM
Lucky you Ron. I have to be careful as to not to hurt anyone in a true life (mostly) novel). I've had a real roller coaster ride in my relationships. I do think the greatest problem in picking a life partner is being too caught up in who they are instead of valuing how they make us feel, even during the bad times.
The Tao of Love (Poetry) - 3/5/2026 9:29:00 AM
I'm fortunate to be in that kind of relationship. I don't like everything about her, just most. But I love everything she does for me and how she cares for me above all else.
You write great articles. Go ahead and write a great novel.
Ron
Resilience (Poetry) - 12/14/2025 9:37:30 AM
You are a good example of resilience Ron. You are a resilient super hero!! Your life is a model for others to emulate. The picture was our resilient river (ten feet from our house) that has resumed some degree of normalcy after the flooding disaster here in Western WA.
Resilience (Poetry) - 12/14/2025 9:28:34 AM
A great review of what it takes to be resilient. I have experienced much of those. Especially, attitude and habit.
Through everything that's happened badly for me, I've always kept a positive attitude. No use worrying and wasting precious time about water under the bridge. It's gone and you can't get it back.
Early on in life, I started practicing good habits. Quitting work early to relax. Going to bed every night at a reasonable hour and sleeping a full night, getting up at the same time every morning ready to face the day.
Eating the right food. Exercising rather than being lazy when it came to little things like climbing the stairs rather than taking the elevator and mowing my own lawns rather than hiring someone else to do it for me. Always remembering my elders and looking after them when I could.
Ron
Which One? (Poetry) - 9/12/2025 4:09:36 PM
Ron--For me, "sin" is anything you do to another person or thing that is hurtful in the spirit of meanness. It is as simple as the solution to violent political rhetoric...as my grandfather told me--"If you can't say something nice about another person, don't say anything at all.
Which One? (Poetry) - 9/12/2025 2:17:39 PM
Interesting to ponder. But not all apply to me. Sin is not a word that I relate to. I prefer a gradient, good or bad.
So many that are labeled as a sin, are actually quite good for various reasons that are ignored or banned.
Ron
Becoming Who You Are (Poetry) - 5/7/2025 2:39:09 PM
Ron--You are a master of acceptance...and we both learned the hard way, that the only thing we really can control to any degree, is how we react/respond to the next situation life places us in. Personally, I think this is the best venue for free will, due to the influence of social and mass media, not to mention genetics and family/peer input.
Becoming Who You Are (Poetry) - 5/7/2025 2:15:49 PM
Sixty-two years ago, I was on a path of success that I never thought I would be on given my humble beginnings. But then, accepting the surgeon’s knife to correct a small problem of weakness in my left arm and hand, I was paralyzed from the neck down until I regained my ability to walk, but not to write with my shriveled hands and arms.
Through six months of self introspection, I realized that I would have to lower my expectations for my life and that’s what I did… but fortunately, still excelling because I always found a way to overcome whatever change was happening to my body, like the long deterioration and creeping paralysis that has me far different from the way I was the time I went back to college, confident that I could finish and get some work even though there was a lot of discrimination to disability in those days and I felt the brunt of it many times.
It was not my seeking higher ground, but my willingness to accept changes that required me to come up with some other work around way of getting things done… Often using technology to do it, that got me to the next level. Until finally, just when I was prepared to take over leadership, politics and jealousy prevented me from moving forward in my career and I gladly retired to writing at 69 years of age.
Since then with 16 books of fiction and memoir, hundreds of articles and stories, nearly 2000 poems and communication with many, many other authors and readers, I am content not to seek the next level, knowing that the next level for me will be closing my eyes for the last time.
But so many others will benefit from following your simple but powerful prescriptions for life.
Ron
My Life (Poetry) - 1/3/2024 5:54:30 AM
It's the ups and downs of life that make out the best bricks for a solid foundation.
My Life (Poetry) - 1/2/2024 8:18:50 PM
Isn't it what life is all about? I think the ups and downs, the success and failures make life more interesting for us. I especially like it when a rainbow apoears after a big storm.
Sandie
My Life (Poetry) - 1/2/2024 1:45:42 PM
Thank you Ronald for your gracious complement. Much appreciated. I hope 2024 is good to us both!! I tried to publish two new books with Kindle Direct Publishing of Amazon and ended up with my account being closed and the published books being removed for no specified reasons. $1k investment wasted and my mistake for not reading the horrible on-line reviews of KDP/Amazon. The book of poetry was a significant overhaul of an earlier book "Reality Repair Rx" published by the scamming Publish America and I never could get ahold of them to make sure I had the rights under my copywrite with them. I gave the information to another publisher to see what I could or couldn't do with the revised manuscript. Thanks again for your valuable support.
My Life (Poetry) - 1/2/2024 11:17:06 AM
While I doubt you have all of the negative attributes you portrayed I can understand why the results came out the way they did. "That's life, that's what the people say…."
This is the first poem I've seen of yours and I must say that you are good at poetry as you are with your fine articles on how to live better. Bravo.
Happy new year,
Ron
Control (Poetry) - 10/22/2023 12:49:49 PM
Ron--I probably need to turn this little poem into a full-blown article because there is a very valuable insight here about the easiest two things to control, but which most people fail to do, because they are over-attentive to the noisy symptoms of failing to controls the controllables:
1. The particular lens of perspective/point of view through which we choose to see things in life, e.g. trusting vs. untrusting, positive vs.
negative, etc.
2. The reaction we make to what we are seeing, thinking and feeling.
Make any sense?
Control (Poetry) - 10/22/2023 11:09:38 AM
If we can find out what our chances of being hurt by random occurrences, we can greatly reduce our fear. And then, with our fear lowered we can engage with others more effectively and our response will be more effective in keeping us safe from harm.
You always get good advice, and this is one of your best.
Ron
Happiness Lost (Poetry) - 9/5/2023 10:38:10 AM
This is wisdom, thank you for sharing.
Happiness Lost (Poetry) - 6/7/2023 11:46:42 AM
Ron--You might be interested in my latest thoughts on happiness I sent a college buddy in our ongoing discussion of problem-solving in today's world.
Here are a few random thoughts I had during my daily gym work out, which I will try to organize in some meaningful way. I seem to get bombarded with a mixture of profound and inane ideas during this time, and I am hoping that these ideas lean towards the profound side. Here are my ideas in order of importance to me:
1. The brain has one fundamental operation—to seek pleasurable rewards and avoid painful punishment. All thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and behaviors follow that purpose.
2. Our divided minds file pleasure under the positive/desirable side of life and pain under the negative/undesirable side, but according to our own unique definitions of these qualities.
3. A mental report card of pleasurable vs. painful experiences keeps tabs are results in a happiness/contentment-unhappiness/discontentment report card, according to our definitions and perceptions.
4. A sense of happiness/contentment results from having experiences that interest us, whether they are positive or negative. Unhappiness/discontentment results when we perceive that we are not having enough interesting experiences in our lives.
5. All the interactions from the seeking of these two goals form a feedback loop that represents a vicious circle to either somewhere (positive) or nowhere (negative).
6. A sense of getting somewhere increases happiness/contentment, whereas the sense of going nowhere increases unhappiness/discontent.
7. Getting somewhere reinforces the choices that result in reasonable control over our lives, whereas getting nowhere opens the floodgate of choices that can reduce control of our lives.
8. The ideal life is a 50-50 balance sheet on all this results on the ongoing report card and thermometer, but life interduces many experiences that can upset this balance, depending upon our reactions and interest level assignment.
9. The pursuit of happiness involves having enough interesting and memorable experiences in life to feel that way, by way of our perceptions and judgment in anticipating the experiences.
10. The influential and socially conditioning electronic and virtual worlds we spend most of our time in today have hidden much potential happiness from enjoying common, ordinary, and average experiences, with the prevalence of interest-grabbing, bright and shiny, flash and splash, spectacular special effect experiences, especially magnifying the negative or dark side of life as more glamorous and interesting.
11. The above bus has been driven out of formation from the rest of the flock which is off course, by the collective communication institutions of the regular news media, TV programs, magazines, politicians, different ideological factions of the great divide, the social media, and movies.
12. The problem—the over-interest in spectacular experience for happiness at the expense of enjoying ordinary, average experience—is currently peaking, and the epitome of the problem is the awarding of last year’s Best Picture Academy Award from # 10 above. to the movie, Everything, Everywhere, All at Once.
13. Successful communication, at least in the long run, will always involve a healthy mixture of what people want to see, hear, and experience, and what they need to see, hear, and experience.
14. When things get out of balance like they seem to be moving towards today, it is up to the interest influencers to help restore interest balance through all the communication institutions in exposing us to some more potential happiness from ordinary, average experiences we can all have in life.
Happiness Lost (Poetry) - 6/7/2023 8:53:11 AM
As always, even in poetry, providing lessons for life. I've always been open to new experiences and have had to drag others along with me.
For example, my partner always resists travel with me because it puts such a responsibility on her to do so many things for so that we can go. But I notice that she rarely ever puts on a frown, just mostly eager to do or see what is up ahead. Occasionally asking why we don't do something simpler rather than reaching out like I always like to do. At the end of our trip, she has fond memories. Telling me she would like to do it again… Without me. ;-)
Ron
Being Free (Poetry) - 3/14/2023 2:10:04 PM
Your poem has covered a very broad range of nuances of what it means to be free. Freedom is more of a perspective than a reality.
While I'm not bedridden… Yet, I am rather housebound, only leaving the house for dental and doctor appointments these days because my primary caregiver is way too busy on other activities to take time to get me out occasionally among fellow men and women.
Still, I feel as free as the eagle in your poem because I plan my day and do the day I plan and I'm able, thanks to the Internet, to go almost anywhere and do almost anything, vicariously, if not in person.
I have no real troubles or worries to keep me down. All of life's troubles leave as soon as they arrive and I'm very relaxed and hopeful for my future as long as it lasts.
Ron
Being Free (Poetry) - 3/14/2023 9:23:33 AM
Thank you Edward for your kind words! Bill C.
Being Free (Poetry) - 3/14/2023 8:50:53 AM
I don't know how you could possibly improve on
the way these words smooth out the wrinkles of life.
Navigating an Affair (Poetry) - 8/20/2021 11:04:49 AM
Your words exquisitely describe the consequences. Unfortunately, our primitive brain seeks something different than what we already have. When we meet someone with a similar desire, things happen we have little control over.
Fortunately, notwithstanding having the desire, like Jimmy Carter, I never had an affair. But I do recall some animosity when I was dating that was unfounded and came to little consequence. When I taught, I made sure, although I befriended some of my students, to never cross the line into an intimate relationship. Many did and probably paid the consequences.
Ron
The Reality Twins (Poetry) - 7/4/2021 4:08:13 AM
Introspection, and reaching for those better feeling
thoughts will help us keep in touch with our better
Selves…
To quote The Beatles song…
‘All you need is Love..’
Best wishes,
Diana…🌺
The Reality Twins (Poetry) - 7/3/2021 10:41:37 AM
Let us hope that our good exceeds our evil. Lately here in Houston, there seem to be a lot of angry people pulling out their pistols, or worse, their automatic rifles and shooting others on the roadways, in businesses and even in their homes, killing small children along the way.
Ron
The Reality Twins (Poetry) - 7/2/2021 3:43:34 PM
Thanks for your kind words Edward. I am trying to capture my wisdom and photos fro, the reality less traveled.
The Reality Twins (Poetry) - 7/2/2021 11:53:15 AM
So honest, so true, and
so enlightening! Slightly crispy to read,
but packed with wisdom!
Are We Really Free (Poetry) - 6/30/2021 9:06:49 AM
A very wise observation. But we've always been tied to our circumstances. Much of the world has been in slavery for much of history and that still exists whether it be wage slavery or the real thing.
My premise is that we begin to lose our intellectual faculties required for survival when we were hunters and gatherers as soon as we settled for growing crops, herding domestic animals, and living in villages.
Very few of us could live on the edge that real freedom would require. Keep up the good work!
Ron
Three Short Poems (Poetry) - 6/9/2021 7:19:41 PM
I enjoyed reading your 3 tier poetry...
Very well thought out and written...
Three Short Poems (Poetry) - 6/5/2021 10:55:32 AM
Ron--I will have to work on that...not my strongest asset. I just like to speak the truth simply, but some poetic waxing couldn't hurt! Thanks.
Three Short Poems (Poetry) - 6/4/2021 7:37:02 AM
While not waxing very poetic to my ears, your words certainly make ultimate sense for those three titles, beautifully.
Ron
Words from Pearly-Girl (Poetry) - 5/23/2021 2:44:56 PM
Ron--It seems the only things she doesn't like are: (1) the long grooming sessions (2) going through the car wash in the car, (3) any other dog coming anywhere near our yard when she is on yard guard duty, and (4) sitting in the car too long if Mom has to do too many errands when I am not at home. The Vet visits aren't a problem at all.
I think her hesitancy in not wanting to ride in the car has to do with association with something unpleasant earlier that she remembers, lost with all the fun adventures I take her on. Also when we rescued her from a lady in Portland, it was a long 4-hour drive back that she may worry about re-occurring. She is an extremely sensitive and "needy" at times. Tight now she is lying on the Poppa-san chair with my wife chain on my upstairs balcony overlooking our river and mountains. Very peaceful.
Words from Pearly-Girl (Poetry) - 5/22/2021 9:07:37 AM
Love the way you translated your dog's thoughts. And what a beautiful girl she is! Obviously she has a few things to say about how you are treating her that are undoubtably true, some good, some bad.
I would venture to say that the reason that Pearly-Girl is unwilling to ride in the car may be her fear of going to the veterinarian's office. My Jazz loved to ride in the car and bark fiercely at any threat that he saw or smelled as we moved down the road. But as we approached the veterinarian's office, his personality would turn into shaking fear. Only to be renewed when we returned home and he was out of the clutches of those evil annual shots and probings.
Ron
Too much Noise (Poetry) - 5/16/2021 4:03:45 AM
Ah dear William, I rather lose myself in heaven for one hour then loose myself on earth for a lifetime. Your poem says so much in truth and meaning, I too feel this way, Most of the information coming at us is
negative, drop a word of goodness in the bucket once in a while I say.
Thank you for sharing, Vienna.
ps, I started a poetry corner , if your interested, nothing but
positive messages check it out on youtube Mystic Rose Poetry Corner
I hope enjoy it.
Too much Noise (Poetry) - 4/29/2021 8:23:20 AM
What a beautiful puppy. Hasn't aged at all!
There seems to be a hardening of thought processes, particularly among older, supposedly wiser people these days. I have tried, time and again to open up discussion, with my brother and sister. My twin brother still seems to be open to ideas sharing and he has been reading some "intelligent" articles recently to improve his thought processes.
On the other hand, my sister seems to wish to polarize her thinking along the lines that are self-destructive rather than open to a better world for all of us. She is withdrawing into what she thinks is a secure existence, but is basically a denial of change. Wish I could open her mind to something better. But it doesn't look like I will be able to do it in the time I have left.
Ron
Too much Noise (Poetry) - 4/29/2021 8:11:30 AM
Most human-like dog we have ever enjoyed. She is with us at 77 (human years!)
Believing (Poetry) - 3/8/2021 10:00:07 AM
The make-believe world of believers. Making all complex issues very simple by relegating them to the various category the belief as so graciously provided.
Through constant repetition, hardwiring the belief to the brain so that a change of thought pattern or even attitude becomes extremely difficult except under very traumatic circumstances.
Your poem, cuts sharply into belief or those who can only live by it in their narrow world of rote thinking.
Ron
Believing (Poetry) - 3/7/2021 3:42:02 PM
Yes about faith--the belief in any "truth" is based on faith of the accuracy and completeness of source. Hence any belief is a leap of faith between the source and you conclusion of the thing either being true of false. Beliefs can never be objectively proven to be true or false because the source can never be studied with any degree of validity and reliability. Heck, even human perceptions of the senses are fooled--optical illusions. So, when we argue about what is true and factual or not, we are just arguing about the strength of our own faith that what we think we know is so. Faith rules.
Understanding Happiness (Poetry) - 8/18/2020 3:21:21 AM
What a pleasant read!
never stop writing!
m
Understanding Happiness (Poetry) - 8/9/2020 11:46:06 AM
The happiest words around. If one has these words in one's life, happiness will happen. If not, other emotions may rush in. We can't be happy all the time, but it's best to be happy most of the time.
Do I sense some "Bro-ness" in Mark's comment?
Ron
Understanding Happiness (Poetry) - 8/6/2020 9:54:07 AM
More aptly and succinctly said Mark! Thanks for your whit.
Understanding Happiness (Poetry) - 8/6/2020 8:47:39 AM
A loaf of bread, A jug of wine, And you by my side.
Nice to meet you, William.... Mark
Common Sense (Poetry) - 6/10/2019 8:55:00 PM
well said
Never stop writing
m
Common Sense (Poetry) - 6/10/2019 8:10:16 AM
Yes on uncommon sense sorely needed. I think we need to restore the good/favorable connotation of the "common" in common sense as good sense (5%)that leads to success and gets results, rather than all the distracting nonsense (95%?)that leads to failure. I think "common" was the sense that the majority of people used to survive life's earlier challenges. Now, I think we try to skip the learning curve on ground survival and go straight to trying to thrive in the sky. The immediate need satisfaction problem.
Common Sense (Poetry) - 6/9/2019 10:13:28 AM
Right on all fronts. Too many describes the distraction of the modern world that has resulted in soundbites like commercials bombarding us to the point where we follow political slogans that are craftily designed to work on our worst fear and suspicion.
We need to cut through all of the slogans and regain our common sense of reality. But it may take uncommon thinking to get it done.
Ron
Watching Our River Flow (Poetry) - 4/28/2019 10:47:30 AM
Your dog isn't watching, but he certainly is content with the way the river flows. I have always taken the rapids, and then, come ashore for a tranquil view of what is going on before going on. You are right. Sometimes it requires stepping aside of the river once in a while instead of just, "going with the flow."
Still, one of my favorite lines from a Beatles song is: "Relax, and float downstream."
Ron
What is My Purpose? (Poetry) - 3/27/2019 11:45:13 AM
I would imagine most people would say to incorporate Bud's and Ron's thoughts, but that would be almost be mentally impossible. I think Budd has the best answer. Great poetry to get us thinking.,
What is My Purpose? (Poetry) - 3/5/2019 3:04:10 PM
much food for thought!
Never Stop Writing!
m
What is My Purpose? (Poetry) - 2/28/2019 8:35:22 PM
A friend of mine always said , It's a great life if you don't let it get you down. I try to follow that advice.
What is My Purpose? (Poetry) - 2/28/2019 11:56:52 AM
Good advice from Budd and Ron! Quite awhile ago, while in graduate school I did a very interesting research project--I simply asked a group of 95+ year old's, what they regretted most in their long lives, so I could help younger people avoid having unnecessary regrets. The consensus was:
1. Not taking enough chances in life (the people who take the most chances are usually happier).
2. Not contemplating life enough (if a person isn't living out his or her life's unique purpose, there usually isn't much enthusiasm or contentment in that life...)
What is My Purpose? (Poetry) - 2/28/2019 10:40:10 AM
we all process questions of self differently, I just try to keep doing the best I can
budd
What is My Purpose? (Poetry) - 2/28/2019 10:24:27 AM
I think if I question myself that much, I'd go crazy. What a dizzying array of questions like some personal interrogation. I question myself very little. Think outward rather than inward. It's a very sane way of living a life.
Ron
Taming Your Terrible Twin (Poetry) - 2/27/2019 2:54:21 PM
my inner self and I finally came to grips with one another. fine write
budd
Taming Your Terrible Twin (Poetry) - 2/27/2019 11:11:20 AM
All--I think my main points in this writing are:
1. We all have dark-sides and a bad self competing with our efforts to self-actualize into our best self. This is a perpetual battle.
2. Since we really can't control our bad self's thoughts and feelings, we can at least try to "manage" how these things get translated from our brains and come out of our mouths and get done with our hands.
Today emotional intelligence is a valuable skill to be successful interpersonal relationships. And, this is mainly self-management--striving to practice positive, productive behaviors and limit the destructiveness of negative, unproductive behaviors. But even with this being said, there is usually a time and place for both terrible twins within to have their fair airtime. Thanks for your comments. Bill C.
Taming Your Terrible Twin (Poetry) - 2/27/2019 10:29:31 AM
What can I say, my friend. I understand for much of my early years I delved into the dark side of my inner self. Took me a bit longer to understand the whys and wheretofore’s concerning my decisions than it usually does the average.
Taming Your Terrible Twin (Poetry) - 2/27/2019 10:18:45 AM
A poem with a thoughtful message. Now that I thought about it, I find that I try to keep that evil one out of the cage for only a brief time each day when no one is around for him to hurt. I keep him around to remind me that other people also have some of them in their psyche as well. Just like you have pointed out in your poem.
Ron
Taming Your Terrible Twin (Poetry) - 2/26/2019 8:00:32 PM
We all have a dark side in us. The civilized trick is to contain that side of us while drawing strength from it. Now my problem is, I have terrible triplets.
Taming Your Terrible Twin (Poetry) - 2/26/2019 1:12:54 PM
We all have a doppleganger somewhere, nice poetry I'm reading today .
What is Happiness? (Poetry) - 1/17/2019 9:57:06 AM
Your poem is right. We can't "make" happiness happen. It just does.
Ron
What is Happiness? (Poetry) - 1/16/2019 10:15:46 AM
Agreed on the importance of giving yourself and finding true love to the valuable sources of happiness. Happiness is much like success and common sense; you usually can't fool yourself if you don't have enough. Our internal thermometers are not easily tricked! Thanks for your comments!
What is Happiness? (Poetry) - 1/16/2019 6:19:09 AM
Wise words to live by, Bill. Beautifully penned.
What is Happiness? (Poetry) - 1/15/2019 11:59:32 PM
Happiness is giving of yourself until you are empty. Then allowing friends and family to fill in the void. Having trust is having true love. True LOVE is TRUE happiness. Yes, it's HARD to find but it's so worth it. Well done William! Amen!
I want (Poetry) - 7/26/2018 12:04:52 PM
wOW! What a fantastic perspective, and so well worded.
Love the brevity, and the way this one SHINES!
sUPERB!
-ZACH
I want (Poetry) - 7/22/2018 11:40:06 AM
Makes perfect sense, wisdom.
I want (Poetry) - 7/21/2018 8:39:02 PM
sounds like 14 commandments. . . a balance and self-discipline will help you in your striving, Sir ;)) Good luck in your researching your good self. It is always there (I know, it's not about you but of us.) Cheers, alex
I want (Poetry) - 7/13/2018 8:50:40 AM
Like I've told my kids, you have to take care of your needs, before you getting what you want.
I want (Poetry) - 7/13/2018 8:00:44 AM
Thanks all! I find myself at most peace when I learn to want what I need, and then magically some of the wants follow...The things I know now would have benefited me then, but then again, maybe that is what life is--finding out what it is all about and figuring how to meet the challenges. That is certainly one purpose we all have in common. And I do think it is time for the pendulum to swing back towards focusing on our commonalities more and on our differences less. Just my two cents for Friday the 13th because it is my luck day (I was born on a Friday the 13th and never bought into that superstition. Bill C.
I want (Poetry) - 7/13/2018 7:30:35 AM
Powerfully expressed in poetry the difference between needs and wants.
I just completed a poem along a similar vein to be posted tomorrow. We all need to heed the message your poem conveys.
Ron
I want (Poetry) - 7/12/2018 7:01:56 PM
We all want a lot of things, but what we are given is what we need, and that is enough for me. Great poem!
Sandie
I want (Poetry) - 7/12/2018 5:31:18 PM
You took me on a ride, William, with all this "wanting" and "needing." Made my day actually wanting and needing are two very opposite words.
I want (Poetry) - 7/12/2018 4:30:40 PM
We are needy people always wanting things we can't afford or really need.
I want (Poetry) - 7/12/2018 3:01:39 PM
We are needy people with many wants. Often we don't always get what we want, somehow we get what we need, Nice poem. Thanks for sharing
Empathy (Poetry) - 7/9/2018 8:07:32 PM
Its greatly written piece written on empathy. I enjoyed you words well chosen.
Empathy (Poetry) - 6/22/2018 3:19:01 PM
I greatly written piece of truth on empathy, I have enjoyed your wisely words, well chosen. Thank you for sharing William
Empathy (Poetry) - 6/14/2018 9:22:34 AM
This poem mirrors your excellent article. If we all had empathy, I think that many of our problems would go away. Unfortunately, so many people see strength in people who do not have any empathy that only proud superiority to offer. What a shame.
Ron
Empathy (Poetry) - 6/14/2018 8:22:07 AM
Sandie--Yes having and expressing empathy does take a lot out of you, but just like getting hurt in love, the experience grows the heart for more love. I believe the capacity and drive for expressing empathy is part of Darwin's Law of the survival of the fittest and the current "selfish gene" theory that is taking us all away from being competitive against each other to be cooperative with one another (and maybe being competitive with ourselves), or from a win-lose mentality to a win-win one. This way we all get to the finish line, with no poor souls left behind. Thanks for your comments.
Empathy (Poetry) - 6/13/2018 8:19:50 PM
People who have high empathy for others are always sad for others. There was a time that I had cried over for a couple that I had not even met over the internet, just because I thought they were met with hard times and sickness. My husband thought I was ridiculous to care so much for some people whom I have not even met. It's good to have empathy for others, but at the same time, it would take a lot out of yourself.
Sandie
Time is Odd (Poetry) - 6/13/2018 11:30:22 AM
a nice piece to sum up mostly all the temporary facets, making the times be objectively enough instead of the subjective shortage, always. As they say time has nothing of the past and nothing of the future to be entangled tightly at present and this way only. Well, if all the rest is merely illusion, let it be so, facilitating our lives ;)) Cheers, alex
What's It Like? (Poetry) - 4/21/2018 9:40:00 AM
Thanks to your comment below, I learned more about the situation. Your poem sure is hard-hitting and noncommittal. It seems that your buddy was given a harsh sentence. Perhaps it was because he was a cop. I personally have been following two people who were given harsh, unreasonable sentences: one, because she was a prostitute and shot and killed the guy who raped her with no intention of killing him. That six-year murder sentence led to another harsh imprisonment because of the resulting anger going back to her early life that put her on the street in the first place. Once a convicted criminal, job prospects shrink drastically.
The second guy made Court TV. The life partner, they never married, of my Ecuadorian caregiver, now a doctor of dermatology, then a plastic surgeon, he elected to do plastic surgeries in the home. When a woman that he did liposuction for on her arms, bled to death, and he chose to defend himself, he was sentenced to 20 years mandatory. When he got out last year, he was sent back to Ecuador. While trying to help other prisoners with legal documents, he was beaten and raped. What a waste of his considerable talents.
Ron
What's It Like? (Poetry) - 4/21/2018 8:26:59 AM
poignant read, best wishes for your friend.
m
What's It Like? (Poetry) - 4/19/2018 7:22:22 AM
Thanks JMD. I wrote this poem for my Vietnam Buddy who went to prison in NY with a 50-year sentence for attempted murder, armed robbery and burglary, as a cop. Ironically, when he was convicted and went to prison (1989), that is when I retired from being a prison warden and went into private security. After our military service we both pursued criminal justice degrees and careers in law enforcement and security. There was no contact until 2 years ago when I found out where he was and we have been corresponding daily since. I just wrote what I think was a great letter to the parole board supporting his release. He will find out the outcome of this third hearing mid-May. By the way, there was a movie made about all this--"With Murder in Mind" with Harold Rollings Jr. playing my friend and Elizabeth Montgomery playing one of his victims. The real person has once again petitioned the Parole Board against my friend, but this time her voice may get drowned out by the 50+ support letters that have been submitted on his behalf, favoring his release at this time. By the way, I took part in Chuck Colson's Prison Ministries program at the prison I ran in NE. Thanks for your comments! Bill C.
What's It Like? (Poetry) - 4/19/2018 6:56:47 AM
Unless we experienced prison we will never know what it's like, especially with a long-term sentence. I do think certain prisons isolate prisoners more than others. I was in prison ministry for over 10 years. One prison focused on education and teaching basic life skills, computer technology, auto mechanics, studying for a CDL truck drivers certification, etc. This prison also encouraged teaching moral principals and the word of God. The other prison focused on sports like basketball and track. This place specialized in sending prisoners to solitary and taking away privileges for not behaving accordingly. It does not take a genius to figure out which prison had the best success rate. Treat people like educated adults and that's what they will become. Treat them like children and that's what they will be. Good poem thought-provoking poetry, William! John Michael
Choices (Poetry) - 3/27/2018 12:03:37 PM
To and fro thy verse teeter totter thy Poet Tree fine lines
Choices (Poetry) - 3/21/2018 8:33:00 AM
But all those little choices chart the direction of our life. And, by the time it is over we may have, as I read yesterday, climbed and not the ladder of success, but a ladder placed on the wrong building.
Ron
Choices (Poetry) - 3/20/2018 1:24:42 PM
Alex--I might not have been as clear as I needed to on making the intended point--that when we listen to our inner voice (meditative intuition/moral conscience/internal compass?) we get the best answers as opposed to listening to the noisier psychological consciences which just confuse us with the absolute, external standard of right or wrong with predetermined reward and punishment consequences (the behavior modification system of life). This does not allow for the use of free will to make informed choices and decisions about what to do or not do in a given situation. At present, and for many people, this is mechanical mindlessness without any room for growth and improvement in living a good life.
Choices (Poetry) - 3/20/2018 12:03:43 PM
I see here a person who turns towards all the four cardinal directions to see all the same truth; what is determined as untruth lies in the corners of the system of coordination. . . for some others it is on the contrary concerning the definition of Truth. that's why Moses said that everything comes out from your mind, Jesus said that the heart is the source, Freud said that it is coming from the place between the legs, but Einstein insisted that relativity rules the world ;)) Yes, there is a place in our life for 'making a choice' but the other factors make the rest 70% of our existence to be dominated. Enjoyed reading this piece. Cheers, alex
The Ways of Life (Poetry) - 6/16/2017 9:24:21 AM
Many good lessons in life expressed in a single poem. Kudos.
Ron
Awareness (Poetry) - 6/12/2017 7:29:43 AM
The hardest thing for us to be aware of is the likely inaccuracy and incompleteness of all the truths, realities and beliefs we think we know to be so; Only a mind driven to be open with enough humility can serve as the key to the hubris lock we have on our pride of ownership
of what we are certain is the way things are. Cheers for more open minds, because that is really the only way you know you have one!!
Awareness (Poetry) - 6/12/2017 2:39:09 AM
I esp like the line Awareness is the key
enjoyed the read
m
Awareness (Poetry) - 6/11/2017 2:10:52 PM
I love to read, and that's how I keep learning. Knowledge is endless.
Awareness (Poetry) - 6/11/2017 6:34:44 AM
So true. With knowledge comes enlightenment. I am amazed, at my age, with all that I have learned through a life of experience and study, to find that almost every day I learn something new. Often it is something that I have simply overlooked or taken for granted. So these revelations come sometimes with a bit of shock, but in a good way.
Like your poem relates, when we stop learning and changing--especially our attitude and opinions--we become much freer.
Ron
Happiness (Poetry) - 6/10/2017 8:16:19 PM
I like this
inspirational but not sappy
holds reader interest!!
never stop writing!
m
Happiness (Poetry) - 6/9/2017 8:54:11 AM
Darn, I thought that happiness was a warm puppy. But you have broadened my experience with this happiness filled poem.
Ron
Who I have Become (Poetry) - 4/25/2017 7:58:08 AM
We can all learn as we live on!
Who I have Become (Poetry) - 4/24/2017 6:14:38 AM
RE: Second Chances. I think it was Abraham Lincoln who once said, "life always gives you two opportunities on the important things and it is always a good idea to know when the first one has already come and gone. My Vietnam buddy and I witnessed two young airman foolishly play quick draw, ending one's short life and sending the other one off to Leavenworth for the rest of his long life. Tragedy for 19-year olds to see and experience.
What is Reality? (Poetry) - 4/23/2017 8:44:16 AM
Hi Bill if I can call you that. Very mind twisting, Rhythmic piece of work. Like " for I go, but where have I been " Keep it up good work.
Your words will set you free, God Bless
Darryl Ehlers
Who I have Become (Poetry) - 4/23/2017 7:20:53 AM
Show me someone who never took a punch and
I;ll show you someone who never took a chance.
How boring is that?
Who I have Become (Poetry) - 4/23/2017 6:46:19 AM
And I believe in second chances. Life keeps moving forward.
Who I have Become (Poetry) - 4/23/2017 6:31:20 AM
I think it's much easier to be an in law than an outlaw any day. Avoids a lot of hassle. After seeing the inside of a police station at seven and getting a reprieve from a policewoman, I went straight from thereon. It's a great feeling to have a clean record.
Ron
Who I have Become (Poetry) - 4/23/2017 5:08:40 AM
this piece of conversion just proves the fact of the wholeness. Cheers, alex
Who I have Become (Poetry) - 4/22/2017 1:16:29 PM
Yep. Absolutely . . . Been there . . . Done that, my friend . . .
What is Reality? (Poetry) - 4/17/2017 7:11:30 AM
In retrospect, I think my main purpose in writing this poem was to reiterate a quote I have hear Nicholas Case use twice now in two different movies: "Truth and Beauty (reality) are what is left after you can't add or subtract anything from it." Cheers! Bill C.
What is Reality? (Poetry) - 4/17/2017 7:02:13 AM
well, too many question marks do not mean a philosophical attitude while there are only two of them which are classically significant: to be or not to be; that's it. This means that reality is what is against each of us, individuality, with one's perception and approach to realize it with the best of one's limits. A nice thought. Cheers, alex
What is Reality? (Poetry) - 4/16/2017 3:33:11 PM
Reality can be many a thing to different people, when we live in the present moment we best open our eyes cuz we only come across it once,
well done William xo
What is Reality? (Poetry) - 4/16/2017 10:01:36 AM
We can philosophize a lot about reality but… We come face to face with it when we are deprived of oxygen for more than two minutes. Deprived of water for three days. Deprived of food for 21 days. Our skin is pierced by a foreign object. We are crushed. We experience a G-force greater than nine atmospheres or other myriad reality checks.
Ron
Understanding Why (Poetry) - 3/29/2017 7:06:20 AM
though success and failure are both stressful, it is a good idea to close a deal and get a positive result now than leave it for an uncertain/certain while. The main factor here is the temporal factor, which means 'fast lane.' On the other hand, it does not guarantee any kind of what is used to be known as 'a happy life' full of gratification; and this is because of the human nature -- to go figure alone or all together -- the contradiction is mandatory and always there. . . A nice attempt to put a question once again. Cheers, alex (BTW, what the picture above is all about?)
Understanding Why (Poetry) - 3/29/2017 6:52:15 AM
Main points I tried to make:
1. Human behavior is far more complex that the scientific predictors imagine (computer calculation of all the infinite interactions may be the only way to come close)
2. When we share our secrets and suspicions we can get farther then when we try it alone.
3. Judging things into opposite categories decreases our chances of being successful in half.
4. John's definition of success is the only one that makes sense to me because we all know external validation rarely includes the masses.
5. I think success is how much you "love" compared to doing the opposite. Love is using your positive energy to enable others to become happier and more successful, improving each situation a little more than it was when you came upon it, rather than doing anything to make a situation worse
Understanding Why (Poetry) - 3/29/2017 6:30:11 AM
Almost appears to be a rant for its intensity. I do not have such misgivings even though I know that human behavior is far more complex and difficult to comprehend than I have intelligence to do. I just know that I can trust some people and not others.
Ron
Understanding Why (Poetry) - 3/28/2017 4:41:59 PM
An excellent thought provoking poem! Success is placing your head on the pillow at the end of each day with joy and peace in your heart knowing that you did your very best. Perpetual success is truly experiencing this continuously just about every day. Peace be with you William!
Understanding Why (Poetry) - 3/28/2017 2:39:02 PM
Eh, I think we all understand "human behavior," we just tend to forget abut it.
One Wrong Choice (Poetry) - 12/2/2016 9:13:15 AM
We all are living out sentences, if we did a crime or not. Our emotional prisons hold us back from pursuing our heart's desire... just hopefully, it's not robbing a drug dealer! Thank you.
One Wrong Choice (Poetry) - 8/24/2016 6:07:01 AM
Apparently a true story coming from the "law and order side" cracking down on light sentences and early releases. Attempted robbery and attempted murder should not be given such strong sentences. It benefits no one.
I am personally familiar with the case of a plastic surgeon from Ecuador who thought he could profit by doing illegal surgeries in people's homes. When one of his clients bled to death, he should have been tried for involuntary manslaughter. Instead he was tried for murder and giving a 20 year mandatory sentence. A brilliant, but misguided man, beaten and raped with his teeth knocked out in prison, will be released next year. I certainly hope he can regain some of his lost life.
Ron
One Wrong Choice (Poetry) - 8/24/2016 5:10:54 AM
William,
You have a unique way of putting yourself in another's shoes and making it real. Excellent poetry.
Love and blessings,
Linda
One Wrong Choice (Poetry) - 8/23/2016 3:59:30 AM
"If you can't do the time
Don't do the crime." Good message!
One Wrong Choice (Poetry) - 8/23/2016 3:20:02 AM
no one can do the time by definition, but no one can be safe from poverty or prison. Such are the roads of life to be followed, gritting one's teeth. Cheers, alex
One Wrong Choice (Poetry) - 8/22/2016 2:48:38 PM
But for two attempted murders, robbery and burglary, consecs.
One Wrong Choice (Poetry) - 8/22/2016 1:28:53 PM
Eh . . . That "hard 50 years" beats the hell out of my puny four and a half years.
Bad News (Poetry) - 6/12/2016 1:27:03 AM
compelling read
Bad News (Poetry) - 6/11/2016 8:03:34 AM
So many in that situation. A real shame and the land of the free.
Ron
Bad News (Poetry) - 6/10/2016 2:43:25 PM
Sounds like the dilemna for Red ( Morgan Freeman) in Shawshank Redemption.
Dan
Bad News (Poetry) - 6/10/2016 1:10:48 PM
Been there. Done that.
Waiting (Poetry) - 5/3/2016 10:24:38 AM
there are two things of the same meaning: 'self-corrected to perfection' and 'he’s come full circle.' To my calculation, a man of such a rich experience has no any distinction of being free behind the bars or out of them. . . Go ahead and ask your friend directly, and we will see. Cheers, alex
Waiting (Poetry) - 5/1/2016 2:19:51 PM
5-1-2016"
Truly Sad...
Estimated 400,000 + Veterans Are In Prisons...
I Am My Best Friend Veitmam Veteran...
TRASK...
Waiting (Poetry) - 5/1/2016 5:58:11 AM
Your impassioned pleas for your friend are not going unheard. I do hope that he will be set free. If not, perhaps President Obama can pardon him before he leaves office. I'm sure you're making that plea as well.
You make me think of my first hired caregiver/helper/assistant/friend. A plastic surgeon from Ecuador, she's now a US dermatologist with two grown children. Her son is a UT Austin graduate lawyer and her daughter is starting her doctorate in environmental engineering. Their father was sentenced to a "mandatory" 20 years in prison in 1996 because he did a liposuction on the arms of a woman in her home in Los Angeles and the woman later bled to death, afraid to call 911.
All previous attempts at parole were denied. Fortunately, this is his last year of incarceration. To think of all the medical good could have done during the past 20 years that his children will have to make up for.
Ron
A Matter of Choice (Poetry) - 10/28/2015 7:40:27 AM
Ron--I think the key is maintaining an optimistic attitude, despite the facts to the contrary that we all see. People who lean towards optimism make more money, live longer, have fewer medical problems, are happier and are more successful in what they are doing. But, I know I got a lot of my own optimism from my parents--so what starts out right had a better chance of ending right, so to speak. Bill C.
A Matter of Choice (Poetry) - 10/28/2015 7:24:21 AM
A very good description of two personalities: one positive and one negative. The outcome can be easily predicted from what I see. A great look into the human psyche and how it works. Very instructive and enlightening.
Ron
A Matter of Choice (Poetry) - 10/27/2015 6:09:07 PM
WHO'S TO SAY. THE 'REAL' PART OF EITHER OF THEM HAS NEVER BEEN SEEN. FOR MANY JUDGES THE OUTER APPEARANCES, GOD JUDGES THE HEART. THANKS FOR SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
A Serious Question (Poetry) - 10/23/2015 9:52:08 AM
Yes, through our ability to come up with ideas and concepts that can be tried out and tested we have conjured up all kinds of conflicts that are both mental and physical. To think that they are all based on the basic instinct of survival. Somehow, outliving death, that creates all these poles of ideation.
This one is full of food for thought. I think I'll go eat some, hypothetically.
Ron
A Serious Question (Poetry) - 10/22/2015 3:00:00 PM
Hah!! Damned if I know. I thought I knew, and then read the poem. You put so many variables in it my head is still reeling. Heh.Heh
A Prisoner's Freedom (Poetry) - 9/1/2015 6:09:47 AM
Last evening on television I watched Bear Grylls and actor Michael B. Jordan on an outing on the cold Scottish coast. They overnighted in a stone sheep shelter with little protection from the biting wind. But, they caught a sheep and hugged it all night long, keeping toasty warm and sleeping very well. Of course, while the sheep liked to be hugged, it was very glad to be released after being hugged for so long.
Hugging from a wheelchair, although it causes one to get more hugs, is not the same as while standing up. I have experienced both. Did God make it so? I think not. God has nothing to do with it.
Ron
A Prisoner's Freedom (Poetry) - 8/31/2015 2:26:56 PM
In every way, we are prisoners.. But mainly our minds can either be a prison or peace.. A brave write.
A Prisoner's Freedom (Poetry) - 8/31/2015 7:37:40 AM
Hah! I absolutely resemble this poem. Been there. Done that.
A Prisoner's Freedom (Poetry) - 8/31/2015 7:23:01 AM
Sometimes realities are grim, and the problem is always the choices we are confronted with--damned if you do and damned if you don't, often being caught between a rock and hard place. And yes, on the trap of both being on the imposing and being imposed of the perceived loss of freedom. The only sure thing I know, is that we can only enjoy degrees of freedom and that is only by our own relative perception. Thanks for the review. Bill Cottringer
A Prisoner's Freedom (Poetry) - 8/31/2015 7:08:53 AM
Seems like a grim use of either/or, ultimately more and more restrictive ... but well presented and thought provoking ... perhaps that is why those in long time solitary find insanity or suicide the final options and why world bodies call it torture and cruel. And what of those who inflict such horrors? Aren't they trapped in the same cell only able to delude themselves with different options they call freedom?
What's All The Fuss? (Poetry) - 8/28/2015 5:12:10 PM
A song? Nothing new? But...a little bit of difference is a lot...
Tell that to the person who just lost the 100 meter run by one tenth of a second. Hmmmm...
Amen!
What's All The Fuss? (Poetry) - 8/28/2015 9:21:25 AM
Like Frank Sinatra sang, "That's life." And isn't it wonderful?
Ron
PS. The text appears to be repeated over and over. If this is not for effect, go to the editor and delete all but the essence.
Awful Addictions (Poetry) - 6/17/2014 9:42:55 PM
These words are true meaning of real reality.
I like this very much.
My best Jane
Going Up of Down? (Poetry) - 6/17/2014 5:01:38 PM
GREAT words of wisdom William. Where have you been??? We need more convicted Christians life you on the Den. Come visit my website soon.
Peace, Love, and Multiple Blessings in Christ,
John Michael
Going Up of Down? (Poetry) - 6/15/2014 9:36:48 AM
Sometimes it's hard to know the "going up of" for the going down.
Ron
A Photographer's Eye (Poetry) - 3/3/2014 8:31:14 AM
Thank you all for the positive comments. I took some shots of some ice formaiton at our river and nearby lake in the mountains. Very interesting patterns for this year's newspaper photo contest. I insert one for this poem!
A Photographer's Eye (Poetry) - 3/2/2014 3:51:28 PM
this would make a very interesting 3-D pic ,,, life ... perhaps the ultimate hologram ...
A Photographer's Eye (Poetry) - 3/2/2014 9:54:13 AM
I always enjoy good photography. There's so much to photograph in this world.
Ron
A Photographer's Eye (Poetry) - 3/2/2014 8:11:41 AM
these things look pretty much mundane except when they're seen through the eyes of a writer or artists...you just made some come to life...nice william
A Photographer's Eye (Poetry) - 3/1/2014 3:54:51 PM
Any objects and every person can be an art through the photographer's eye. That is why they are artists because they seek to see the artistic value in what they're looking at.
Sandie
A Photographer's Eye (Poetry) - 3/1/2014 2:49:48 PM
ANYTHING & EVERYTHING
JUST WAITING
ENJOYED
dWb
The Familiar Stranger (Poetry) - 3/1/2014 10:21:12 AM
Sounds like the other half… Am I right?
Ron
The Familiar Stranger (Poetry) - 3/1/2014 7:30:06 AM
just be careful how you confront a stranger, you might create an enemy ... specially when he makes "me feel dead " or whacks you "with a two by four" ... i wouldn't trust that stranger at all...
The Familiar Stranger (Poetry) - 3/1/2014 6:40:26 AM
Some strangers can have good connection and be feeling like they're friends already even if they aren't; sad are the ones who were friends once and then would unfriend an old friend for a new friend whom he has not got to know well yet.
Sandie
The Familiar Stranger (Poetry) - 3/1/2014 4:15:52 AM
neither should any of us doubt him
budd
The Familiar Stranger (Poetry) - 2/28/2014 11:11:18 PM
Yes, well done William! Strangers can become friends just as quick as friends become strangers. Why is that?
The Familiar Stranger (Poetry) - 2/28/2014 7:02:07 PM
Very thought provoking
Excellent poetry
Default Man (Poetry) - 12/27/2013 11:45:37 AM
Great wordplay… To fault or default, that is the question you have answered.
Ron
Default Man (Poetry) - 12/27/2013 4:17:08 AM
Bill,
I like this. I hope you had a great Christmas and wish for you a Happy New Year.
Problems, Conflcts & Words (Poetry) - 3/18/2013 8:53:33 AM
This is very true William; words can kill or enliven, and you have said it in a most interesting, and creative manner.
Continued success-
Barbara J. Henry
What Is Time? (Poetry) - 11/18/2012 9:00:18 AM
Unpardon me but I relent it boldly;
For it is far ahead, if I can be sure of it,
And far it is, that my hallucination be valid,
And hallucination it is, as it should be,
And however, unlike itself, mysterious, unknown, and untested,
So it be foreseen in my tireless search.
Suicide Survivor (Poetry) - 7/26/2012 4:52:07 AM
William,
I've often wondered of the pain a person has to be in to commit suicide. How desolate they must feel. If they would only think 100 yrs from now what will their problems matter. This too shall pass.
Many blessings,
+Linda
Suicide Survivor (Poetry) - 7/16/2012 11:17:47 AM
It may be hard, especially if one is close, but I think the best solution is to say that the person's time had come. Who are we to judge why or why not? To feel guilty for someone committing suicide, speaks of our relationship to them.
Ron
Suicide Survivor (Poetry) - 7/16/2012 10:02:33 AM
Bill's poem Suicide Survivor rings true: I lost an adult daughter almost ten years to the day--the Coroner's report said "over-supply of blood pressure medicine in the blood." I felt strongly her heart - on all levels - gave out. She had put on her best pajamas and laid on the floor, no longer willing to endure the heat in the valley or the cold of alienation. I still lay down on that floor (mentally) with her at unexpected moments. Yet the guilt and grief - my own from "not doing or being enough" - have transmuted into teaching and facilitating mostly young adults in a voc ed school. I think Monica would be happy that her life was given as a leaf in the soil. Maybe not.
I appreciate and enjoy Bill's crisp and wide views...
My Best Teacher (Poetry) - 3/6/2012 7:46:50 AM
my best teacher has been and still is 'experience' but 'love' comes in second. thanks for sharing.
asa
My Best Teacher (Poetry) - 3/4/2012 10:27:55 AM
A lovely love poem. I really enjoyed your insight.
Ron
Where Did Common sense Go? (Poetry) - 8/15/2011 5:14:09 PM
My friend you have completely said it all and said it right. I have been saying for years . . . as Nero fiddles . . .
What Is Time? (Poetry) - 8/11/2011 10:30:48 AM
The past is gone,
Future is only a concept,
All we really have is now.
We should make the most of it.
I liked this.
Walt
What Is Time? (Poetry) - 1/26/2011 7:56:51 PM
Thanks all--I expanded it into an article. Bill C.
What Is Time? (Poetry) - 1/25/2011 12:22:21 PM
Wrote a poem on time a few poems back and I enjoy your take on it.
George
What Is Time? (Poetry) - 1/25/2011 6:46:19 AM
A timely message. (sorry)
I do think it must slow down when I'm on the treadmill. That has to be it.
John
What Is Time? (Poetry) - 1/24/2011 8:37:46 PM
This was right on time... or maybe early. Any-who, I enjoyed it.
Awful Addictions (Poetry) - 12/22/2010 5:10:20 PM
addictions ruin marriages, friendships even and are not good for you. I do have patience with my friend for his addictions, but it seems to me that i am pulling away from him because of them. Wishing I could stand by in this, maybe give him a chance. Enjoyed reading this, made me think i could do differently in this.
Where Did Common sense Go? (Poetry) - 2/16/2010 5:16:17 PM
I really enjoyed this poem. I can agree with you fully.
Awful Addictions (Poetry) - 11/13/2009 9:41:07 PM
a metphor for watever life throws your way great piece of writing
Awful Addictions (Poetry) - 9/21/2009 9:12:26 AM
Jude-- You make a very interesting point. I guess the bottom line is that the "rewards" offered by the subsitute object(s) in the recovery plan have to be eqyuivalent to or greater than the rewards of the addiction, only in sociually approvied and personally productive ways! In that sense, it is the actual outcome of anything you are doing that counts--enabling (productive, healthy and desireable) or disabling (destructive, pathological and undesireable)Thanks. Bill C.
Awful Addictions (Poetry) - 9/19/2009 9:00:54 PM
do you know one can be addicted to overcoming an addiction once the addiction has been defeated ... i believe a recovering addict is in a perpetual state of withdrawal ...
Awful Addictions (Poetry) - 9/19/2009 9:25:57 AM
DONE WELL WITH DYNAMIC IMAGERY AND BLUNT, STRONG PHRASES THAT SUBSTANTIATES THE SERIOUSNESS OF THIS WORK. THANKS FOR SHARING AND BLESSINGS. JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
Want To Change the World? (Poetry) - 8/31/2009 10:23:48 AM
William this poem is so very interesting and profound! I shall visit you again!! Thanks for sharing!!
Love And Prayers
Always!!
Want To Change the World? (Poetry) - 8/9/2009 8:06:25 PM
William,
We are on the same page tonight, William. I hope you read my poem How Can I Make A Difference. We have alot of the same thoughts. You are right, we can change the world one step at a time. Sometimes it may be baby steps but its marching forward. Bless you for this write!
Blessings,
~Linda
ADHD Mind Oh Boy (Poetry) - 6/12/2009 11:10:25 PM
You captured the "one minute flicker" well.
ADHD Mind Oh Boy (Poetry) - 6/12/2009 10:17:27 PM
whew...what an experience
Free Will (Poetry) - 5/7/2009 7:17:44 AM
Your poem made me think William -The moral consciousness of mankind points to the freedom of will The sense of moral obligation is written in every man’s heart – it is as certain as the uniformity of nature.. We know that we are bound to do the right and to avoid the wrong. We know we are also free to avoid evil. . It is not reasonable The moral consciousness of mankind points to the freedom of will. The sense of moral obligation is written in every man’s heart – it is as certain as the uniformity of nature.. We know that we are bound to do the right and to avoid the wrong. We know we are also free to avoid evil. It is not reasonable for determanists to tell is these solid colvictions are mere illusions
Reality Repair Rx (Poetry) - 4/1/2009 3:17:49 AM
An informative poem,great work,take care
Edwin
Reality Repair Rx (Poetry) - 3/29/2009 5:53:48 PM
A very insightful poem with a great message too. Change can come only inwardly, values nurtured by family, bred in the home before they are bred in the land. That is the real fixing.
Cynthia
We Not Me (Poetry) - 3/25/2009 10:55:59 PM
Great poem,I enjoy reading it,take care
Edwin
What to Say? (Poetry) - 3/25/2009 10:55:00 PM
Excellent poem,great work,take care
Edwin
Looking For God (Poetry) - 3/23/2009 1:19:01 AM
A most beautiful "search" framed expertly in verse, it captivates the reader. I like this poem very much I read it three times.
Cynthia
What to Say? (Poetry) - 3/23/2009 1:15:07 AM
Speechlessness is normal when faced with the awesome beauty of nature.
Very insightful poem!
Thanks for sharing (and writing it),
Cynthia
What to Say? (Poetry) - 3/22/2009 7:10:16 PM
Such a descriptive penning being caught between two worlds, the seeing and the explaining...
Be always safe,
Karen
We Not Me (Poetry) - 3/22/2009 9:29:59 AM
Well expressed William!!
Love Tinka
What is Self? (Poetry) - 3/21/2009 5:28:18 PM
Wonderful questioning....
So true, our so called individual self merges into the Oneness that we truly are!
The root meaning of individual is indivisible... no separate unit entity... but the one Self, each other... united, family, All..
Thank you for sharing the beauty of this William!
Love and Gratitude,
Suzie :-D
We Not Me (Poetry) - 3/21/2009 5:21:43 PM
More about we!!!
Love it William!
Thank you for the wonderful unfolding of this poem!
Love, Suzie :-D
Smiling In Bad Times (Poetry) - 3/15/2009 2:12:38 AM
Everything you say is the truth and people should smile even when things go bad.When you smile,the whole world smiles with you.Thank you for sharing this poem and let people know that there are still things in this world that people should appreciate like our lives,our selves,etc.take care
Edwin
Unfair? (Poetry) - 3/15/2009 2:06:22 AM
Excellent poem,very well written,take care
Edwin
Unfair? (Poetry) - 3/13/2009 6:27:37 AM
Hi William,
Effective write! The point expressed is strong and the impact strike like a bullet! Great style and form!
Cynthia
Unfair? (Poetry) - 3/12/2009 4:34:25 PM
Not all is fair, the reason I guess justice is sometimes blind. You have hit the mark with this one though...
Be always safe,
Karen
Smiling In Bad Times (Poetry) - 3/12/2009 3:16:49 PM
Jill good for you...I can't imagine the degree of resiliance you have after thriving past that kind of hardship! Thanks for sharing. Bill C.
Smiling In Bad Times (Poetry) - 3/10/2009 4:51:42 AM
Keeping our smile in difficult times is so, so important. I have neighbors who believed I was halfway crazy for smiling and making jokes when Hurricane Ike left us a 5 foot 8 inch debris pile in our living room from damage sustained through an 18 by 24 foot hole in the roof. If we lose our ability to smile, however, we lose sight of how things were and can again be.
Thanks for sharing this poem, William. I enjoyed it.
Jill
Smiling In Bad Times (Poetry) - 3/10/2009 3:51:54 AM
Keep smiling dear man..enjoyed...stay safe and well...Hugss
Smiling In Bad Times (Poetry) - 3/10/2009 1:23:42 AM
WOW!
This is true William, what an awesome write.
Smile is the best natural medicine,
A best gift that God has given to mankind.
Keep writing
(((HUG-I-O-S)))
