Another Picture in the Puzzle

It's almost 2 a.m. here in St. Louis, after just returning from a quick walk with my dog. I walked past the snow shovel waiting by the front door for the 'storm to beat all' to step outside to relatively mild weather and nary a sign of a snowflake. Within the periphery of my cynicism, I can't help but wonder if the 'flurry' of alarm stirred by the relentless, ominous news reports isn't the latest marketing tool responsible for the panic that sent 'everyone and their brother' to the grocery and hardware stores today! Possibly another piece in the puzzle, as nothing in the world seems as it appears, especially the news.

It has been a long time since I've written anything new, Perspycacious, as too many things still pull me in too many directions too much of the time. Life has it's own cadence. Many times I've felt dragged unwillingly, along for the ride, with my only choices being to hold on tight or fly off into space. Someday, maybe, I'll learn when to let go of the reins...to laugh more and analyze less. But, honestly...probably not. Hanging on for dear life is what makes me a survivor. Thank you for your stellar comment, my friend. It's always good to hear from you.

I have grown to feel close to you, Suzette, hence, taking the liberty of freely expressing my diatribe on stress. Thank you for being so kind and understanding. For the most part, I try to contain my cynicism by adopting a pragmatic view of things. Otherwise, I'd be a raving lunatic! Of course, that might cut down on the clamoring that drives me over the edge...LOL

Have a wonderful, relaxing Easter, Suzette.

As I read your extraordinary comment, Suzette, I am struck by, not only your "on the bulleye" analysis, but your question "was it worth it all?" Your words made me stop, take a deep breath, and think about the banality of what drives me to distraction, occupies most of my thoughts to the exclusion of writing as of late and consumes my waking moments. Lately, Suzette, it seems everyone in my life needs more than I have to give. All of my time is given, to the exclusion of the things I need or want to do, wiped obsolete to the needs of everyone else. And though those things are important, at the moment, I feel used up by 'drivel.' I suppose everyone must deal with what feels obligatory at times, but when I think back, it seems I have always been consumed by other's needs...as if my life is only here for service and that everyone in my life has a life that is worth more than my own. Sometimes, I wish I could run away, but then, my conscience would never let me sleep peacefully again. And, then, what would inspire me to write?

As you can see, Suzette, there is nothing you write, not even a comment, that is drivel to me. Thank you, my friend, for your profound thoughts and words.

Oh, Linda, Your words light up my eyes and I feel the warmth of your generosity all the way to my toes. But, never underestimate the magic, hope and sustenance of what you write. I still go back and re-read your piece about the value of the life of a tree. It touchs me deeply. So, that said, your beautiful words will chime in my heart everytime I write a poem. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, dear friend.

Thank you so much, Jo, and I am so glad to see you. I'm thrilled that you like this one and encouraged that you sense "I'm feeling it." Bless you my awesome friend. Shalom

Thank you so much, Gypsy. Your words warmed my day, and at 5 degrees in St. Louis this morning, that's a really big deal. Sending love to you from me in St. Lou.

Bless you, Blossom. I appreciate your time and enjoyed your visit along with your heartwarming message to me.

I adore your writing, Peg, as your style is uniquely yours. At the end of each story, I want more. When you let me know you are a fan of mine, I am over the moon, my friend. Thank you for your visit, support and your awesome comment.

As I read your beautiful comment, dear drbj, what strikes me most is how incredibly fortunate and grateful I am for readers like you. Often, before I publish a piece, I do feel self-doubt and struggle with hitting "publish" , as no one wants to feel a fool. When I say you give me courage, drbj, I am being sincere. To think that you delve for my meanings is the greatest gift you could ever give me. And, "Magnifique, cherie", well, it doesn't get better than that. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, my brilliant friend.

I am thrilled, absolutely awestruck by your comment, dearest Ruby. I feel like I've won the lottery knowing you. You restore my faith in humanity, Ruby, in every piece you write and every comment you leave me. Bless you, my sweet friend.

Thank you so much, my kindred spirit, Mark. I thought of you, too, when I wrote this piece. I admire your stamina, strength and positivity in dealing with so many devastating circumstances beyond your control. You, my friend, are an inspiration. Thank you and take good care of yourself, Mark.

Thank you, Vickiw, for your profound statement regarding this piece. I was exceedingly fortunate to grow up with loving parents that gave me the gift of their genetics and lives that showed me how to navigate difficulties through a strong sense of responsibility rather than blame. No life is without strife. Helping each other is not selfless, as it is not without its own rewards. Each of us becomes strong or not, resourceful or not, giving or not, depending on how we perceive the troubles we encounter. The difficulties in every life can make us strong or reduce us to helplessness, and though life is unpredictable, the way we manage the hard times remains our choice. Picking up the pieces and putting them in place...so to speak. Thank you, Vicki, for taking the time to read my piece and give it the care of your thoughts.

Dear Ghaelach, First, I love your name. Is it scottish?

I am purposely ignorant of the writings of the likes of Lord Byron, Burns and Woodworth, mainly, because I have a fear of being too influenced and/or discouraged by their infamous writing abilities. But, now, that you mention them by name in your most generous comment to me, my curiosity has got the best of me. I am going to read some of their prolific masterpieces this week. Since my feeble efforts in writing and painting, if nothing else, are influenced by my diehard impetus to be an original and the worst thing possible for me would be a "copy", I need have no fear. Thank you for your awesome words, Ghaelach, that got my brain firing and my heart pumping.

Isn't it funny, MHatter, how the "comments" can tell us so much about one another? Yours tell me I like you! Thank you so much, dear man.

You just taught me a brand new word, Perspycacious, and I thank you! I've already looked it up and am planning on using it soon.

We must be existing in a parallel universe, Randi!

I've missed you, Randi. I see two articles by you today and I am headed over to the one I'm most afraid of...Public Showers! LOL

Thank you for your awesome comment. You've made my day, my friend. Take care of yourself and try not to work too hard. Hugs to you from St. Lou

Dear Bill, Knowing that you are a teacher, and mostly, that you are an honest, 'tell it like it is' kind of man, I feel enormously complimented by your words. If you have any doubts at this point, judging from my comments on your hubs, I am a very serious person and take every word from every reader to heart. Yours, my friend, make my heart sing. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Bill. Love, Amy

My dearest Colin, If I am a wordsmith, you, nevertheless, leave me at a loss for words to fully express my gratitude for your richly gorgeous message. If I ever dare to write a poetry book, I will beg, borrow and steal, to get you to write a review.

I can't thank you enough for taking the time to truly read my work, in order to understand the subterfuge running beneath the surface of my poetry. You make the excitement of writing hit the top of the ferris wheel. I feel like I've just won the biggest prize at the fair.

Thank you for giving validity to my thoughts and their expression here. You give me courage. Shine on, you crazy diamond.

Dear SMonaghan, Believe it or not, I am actually a positive person, but with a very serious side. I write with the most passion about the things I am most passionate about, predominantly unfairness, inequality, the blows of life that bring us to our knees. I can't fake it. Sometimes, I wish I could. I find joy in hope and with only a few exceptions (my piece following the CT school shootings), I usually see and infuse the power of hope in my poetry. Thank you sincerely for your interest and allowing me to think about something I rarely do; the motivation of my leanings in writing. I appreciate your kindness and inquisitive mind.