Category: The Daily’s

Cut That Shit Out!

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Daily writing prompt
What’s the most fun way to exercise?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

A journey through fitness, false identities, and finally figuring your shit out

Fun Way to Exercise, You Say? Let’s Get Delusional.

Let’s start here: Olivia Newton-John basically rewired an entire generation’s brains with “Let’s Get Physical.” She morphed from wholesome sweetheart to headband-wearing fever dream, and somehow we all collectively agreed that writhing in a leotard was fitness. We never really recovered, emotionally or sartorially.

Then there was Jennifer Beals in Flashdance, reminding us that it’s totally fine—encouraged, even—to be obsessive about your passions. Especially if your passion includes dumping water on yourself mid-dance. That “Maniac” scene wasn’t just exercise—it was aspirational chaos. It made sweating look like a personality trait.

Even Popeye tried to get in on it. He wasn’t just pushing spinach; he was pushing the idea that vegetables could give you freakish forearm strength and the confidence to punch boats. No one wanted to be the 90-pound weakling on the beach getting sand kicked in their face. We worked out—not for health, not for longevity—but for the attention of a girl who may or may not even know our name.

Jane Fonda came along and made aerobics a spiritual obligation. Suddenly we were all cult members, grapevining for our lives, and gym bros looked at us like we were losing our minds. You tried aerobics? RESPECT. That’s not cardio. That’s performance art.

And Richard Simmons? That was a whole vibe we still don’t fully understand. Sequins, shouting, sincere encouragement—somewhere between motivational speaker and glitter elemental. Whatever it was, it worked. People moved. They sweat. They cried. They believed.

My step-madre? She was in the trenches with Tae-Bo. Billy Blanks screaming from the TV, and her throwing punches in the living room like a woman possessed. I still don’t know if it was for fitness or because she thought Billy was fine. She’ll never say. She holds secrets like a vault, and no one has the access code.

Supplements & Shenanigans

Just when you thought the movement was enough—enter the supplement era.

We started popping Flintstone Chewables like they were candy (because they were), then graduated to Centrum when we wanted to feel like grownups who still couldn’t swallow pills. Then came Geritol Tonic—that was the truth. Took a sip and blacked out in enlightenment.

Protein shakes replaced food. Creatine replaced logic. Ginseng, ginkgo biloba, and questionable powders scooped into shaker bottles at 6am because someone on the internet said it would “enhance vitality.”

We were building bodies. Fueling potential.
And slowly, maybe accidentally, getting nowhere near wholeness.

Mind, Body, Spirit… and Other Marketing Buzzwords

(Now With 12 Unnecessary Challenges, Just Like Hercules!)

Eventually, the workouts and pills and VHS tapes weren’t enough. People started exercising their minds. Started researching things like inner peace, balance, self-actualization—whatever that is. People wanted to genuinely like themselves. Be whole. Mind, body, and spirit.

Sounds good, right?

But come on—is that even real?
Is that obtainable?
With the flood of curated nonsense, the influencers, the unsolicited life advice, the algorithmic chaos—how does anyone even begin to weed out the bullshit?

Hercules had twelve trials. You? You’ve got:

  • Unread emails,
  • Burnout,
  • Repressed childhood trauma,
  • And a morning routine you’re too tired to follow after Day 3.

He had to slay lions and capture magical deer. You have to:

  • Journal without spiraling,
  • Set boundaries with your toxic cousin,
  • And drink water instead of iced coffee for once.

Same energy.

We all want to feel better. More “aligned.” But instead of holy quests, we get wellness content. Instead of oracles, we have mood boards and moon water. Instead of epiphanies, we get an Instagram carousel of “ways to raise your vibration.”

You started exercising your body.
Then your mind.
Then your spirit—probably via breathwork, moon phases, or a yoga class in a converted warehouse with exposed brick and emotional lighting.

And when that didn’t quite fix the aching void?

People started turning to God.
Or the Universe. Or Source. Or the Vibe Manager in the Sky, depending on your belief system.

Every path, every name—people started reaching out, up, and through, looking for a way to cleanse the demons and purify their spirits. Not just the metaphorical demons either—like, the real ones. The ones whispering, “You’re not enough,” while you’re trying to do a downward dog and not weep into your yoga mat.

Prayer, meditation, sacred texts, incense, tarot, gospel, gospel-adjacent YouTube playlists—anything to feel like you’re not just a sentient to-do list trying to find peace in a collapsing world.

Because after you’ve tried all the earthbound answers, sometimes the only thing left is the divine shrug of surrender.

The Real Labor: Showing Up For Yourself

So here’s the thing.

Exercising isn’t fun.
If you think it is—cut that shit out. Seriously. Stop lying to the rest of us who are dragging our carcasses through spin class wondering if our souls are leaking out with every drop of sweat.

But exercising your entire being?
Taking the time to figure out what you actually need?
That’s different.
That’s hard. That’s a process. That’s showing up and sitting in the silence. It’s being real enough with yourself to stop pretending. And yeah, you need to cut that shit out, too.

This isn’t a 30-day fix.
It’s a lifelong pursuit.
One that changes as you do. One that requires you to keep showing up, even when you don’t feel like it, even when no playlist or dopamine hit is waiting.

But if you do it?

If you do the real work?

The reward… it has no words.

It’s a feeling.
Quiet. Deep.
Solid as bedrock.

The feeling of becoming whole—not perfect, not pure, not finished—just complete in the way only honesty can make you.

And at the center of all of this is one simple truth:
The point of this is to Do You.
No qualifiers. No “better” or “best” or whatever recycled buzzword is trending this week. Just you, fully and unapologetically.

As the great Oscar Wilde said,

“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.”

You are enough. You always have been.

And if someone tries to tell you otherwise, or if your own brain starts slipping back into that goofy self-hating soundtrack?

Cut that shit out.

About the Author

Mangus Khan did a yoga pose once, and it hurt like hell—respect to anyone still doing that on purpose. He owns a towering stack of unread self-help books, which now function as either a faux end table or a regal perch for his cat, who loves him unconditionally despite the obvious madness. He believes in growth, sort of. He believes in showing up, sometimes. And he definitely believes in cutting that shit out.

Fold Theory & Fiction: Confessions of a Rereader

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Daily writing prompt
What book could you read over and over again?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Plenty of books fall into this category. I’d love to say I have a strict system for what earns a reread, but let’s be honest: the rules shift every time. Sometimes it’s the writing, sometimes it’s a character who won’t shut up in my head, and other times it’s because the book whispered something suspicious from the shelf—like it knows things. Rereading isn’t a choice at that point. It’s a compulsion. Like the story implanted a post-hypnotic trigger in my brain that activates randomly. And when it does, I drop everything—sleep, obligations, dignity—and reread. Again.

Now, my particular brand of obsession comes with a twist: time travel. I don’t just read about it—I research it. Because yes, I’m building a time machine in my basement. And no, I’m not joking. I know what you’re thinking. This person is completely unhinged. Stop looking at me in that tone of voice. Don’t judge me—I’m backed by science.

Stephen Hawking once said, “Time travel used to be thought of as just science fiction, but Einstein’s theory of general relativity allows for the possibility that we could warp space-time so much that you could go off in a rocket and return before you set out.” So, technically, I’m not crazy—I’m just early.

And Einstein himself—our time-bending MVP—once said, “The distinction between past, present, and future is only a stubbornly persistent illusion.” That quote haunts me. Because if time really is just an illusion, then maybe my late-night diagrams and basement scribbles aren’t completely absurd. Maybe I’m just trying to see through the illusion. With tools. And snacks.

Some books feel like accomplices in this mission. Einstein’s Dreams is one of them. It’s not a novel in the traditional sense—it’s more like a collection of speculative time experiments disguised as dreams. Time slows, speeds up, loops, fractures. Each version reveals how fragile we are, how much we lean on the idea that time is stable. It made me wonder if I want to manipulate time or if I just want to understand why it controls me so completely.

Then there’s The Psychology of Time Travel, which sounds quirky but plays out like a cautionary tale. It’s brilliant, and it doesn’t flinch. Time travel in that book isn’t just a shiny toy—it messes with identity, memory, and even reality. It shows the mental strain of knowing too much about your own timeline. Honestly, it made me stop mid-chapter and ask, Do I actually want to succeed at this, or do I just like the chase?

This is probably why I’ve started keeping my own book—a messy, ever-growing volume of experiments, part science, part psychology. Charts, notes, theories, emotional meltdowns—it’s all in there. It’s not publishable (yet), but it’s real. And it’s mine. Some people journal. I document the potential collapse of linear time. To each their own.

And then there’s the part no one wants to discuss—the mythic weight of time. The ancient beings who ruled it long before clocks or quantum theory. Chronos, the Greek god who devoured his children just to keep time moving in his favor. The Moirai, weaving destinies and snipping threads when they feel like it. Kāla, the Hindu personification of time, is both destroyer and renewer. Even the Norse Norns, sitting beneath the world tree, are casually deciding fates like it’s a hobby. These entities weren’t just metaphors—they were warnings. Time is power, and it doesn’t like to be tampered with.

The more I study, the more I feel like time isn’t linear—it’s layered. Some theorists say time can fold over itself like a sheet of paper, bringing two distant moments into contact. Others call it fluid, a river that bends, swells, evaporates, and returns in strange new forms. Honestly, I’ve felt both. There are days where the past bleeds into the present like ink on wet paper. There are moments I swear I’ve already lived. Maybe I’m stuck in a fold. Maybe I’m just bad at time management. Either way, I write it all down.¹

And Then She Vanished wasn’t just another trip down the wormhole—it rerouted my entire approach. The way it plays with memory, causality, and the emotional cost of screwing with time? It hit differently. I went in looking for narrative patterns, maybe a clever paradox or two. What I got was a punch to the gut and a blueprint for moral consequences. The book didn’t just mess with time—it made me rethink why I want to.

And maybe that’s the real loop. Because every time I pick up a pen, I feel it. Writing bends time, too. It stretches memory, warps emotion, and compresses decades into a sentence. Every time we write, are we building new worlds, or are we just reconstructing something we have already lived? Maybe stories are our version of time machines. Just paper ones. Slightly safer than the one in my basement.

¹ Excerpt from my “Working Theories of Time” notebook, vol. 3:

  • Time is a crumpled map, not a straight road. Folds = déjà vu. Rips = blackout years.
  • Fluid time isn’t just poetic—it leaks. Time gets messy around emotional events—breakups, funerals, weird Tuesdays.
  • The body remembers time differently than the mind. Proof: muscle memory, grief anniversaries, and spontaneous panic attacks for no logical reason.
  • Clocks lie. This isn’t a theory. Just a fact.

This is why I track time like a conspiracy theorist with a mood disorder. It’s all connected. Probably.

I’d Be Shaft, Obviously (Everyone Else Needs Therapy)

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Daily writing prompt
If you could be a character from a book or film, who would you be? Why?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

An aggressively personal breakdown of alter egos, revenge spirals, and why fictional characters are one emotional snap away from disaster.

Ever watch a movie, read a book, or binge a show and think, Wow, this character really needs therapy? Like… immediately. They have pills for that. And boundaries. And emotional support animals. But instead of signing up for BetterHelp, fictional characters usually take the scenic route: they grow an alter ego, light their lives on fire, and call it “justice.”

Sometimes you’re just sitting there, watching a perfectly normal person start talking to their dead father’s ghost, and all you can think is: They are so fucked.

Let’s talk about that.

The Alter Ego: Fancy Latin for “Oh no, he’s talking to himself again”

There’s something darkly satisfying about a character cracking right down the middle. Not like “oops, I’m having a rough day” cracking—but full-blown talking to their reflection in the mirror and the reflection talks back cracking.

Dr. Jekyll doesn’t just dabble in science—he mainlines Victorian repression and conjures a walking midlife crisis named Hyde. And Tyler Durden? He’s what happens when toxic masculinity drinks four espressos and finds Nietzsche on Reddit.

“Man is something that shall be overcome.” – Nietzsche

Too bad most characters take that as an invitation to become unhinged vigilantes instead of, say, doing the shadow work.

Alter egos don’t just show what characters fear—they show what they secretly want: power, escape, freedom from polite society. It’s the part of them that isn’t okay with playing nice anymore. It’s also the part that starts the fires and says “oops” later.

Holmes and Moriarty: A Gentleman’s Guide to Mutual Obsession

Sherlock Holmes and Professor Moriarty are technically enemies. But let’s be honest: they’re intellectual soulmates with unresolved tension and no HR department to report to. If Holmes is logic in a waistcoat, Moriarty is chaos in a cravat. One solves crimes. The other is the crime.

Holmes says he’s repulsed by Moriarty’s criminal mind. But let’s call it what it is: obsession. Like, we-should-talk-about-this-in-couples-therapy obsession.

“He who fights with monsters should be careful lest he thereby become a monster.” – Nietzsche again, because of course.

Their final tango at Reichenbach Falls? That’s not a climax—it’s a breakup scene disguised as a death drop.

Werewolves, Hulks, and People Who Should Not Be Left Unsupervised

Let’s talk about werewolves: the OG metaphor for “Oops, my emotions got out.” Classic lit was obsessed with this stuff. Guy seems chill—until the moon rises and suddenly he’s shirtless, hairy, and eating villagers. It’s like puberty, but worse.

And then there’s Bruce Banner. Poor guy just wants to be left alone to do his science. But noooo—every time someone provokes him, he turns into a giant green rage machine in cut-off jeans. He told them not to make him angry. They did. Now there’s structural damage.

Each transformation screams what Carl Jung quietly suggested:

“Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.”

Which is a very classy way of saying, “Congrats, you’re the werewolf now.”

But let’s not forget—masks don’t just hide. Sometimes they liberate.

“The mask is the instrument of the power that makes one see and speak.” – Michel Foucault

In other words: sometimes putting on the cape, the claws, or the face paint isn’t about hiding who you are—it’s about finally saying what you were never allowed to. That’s why Batman isn’t just Bruce in costume. He’s Bruce off-leash.

The real question is: when the mask comes off… what’s left?

Revenge: It’s Like Therapy, But With Body Counts

Here’s the thing about revenge stories: they used to be neat and tidy. Somebody wrongs you, you plot, you avenge, you feel… better? At least that’s how it worked in the classics. The Count of Monte Cristo is the gold standard of “I was wrongfully imprisoned, now I’m back with receipts.”

But modern revenge stories? Oh, they’re emotionally messy. There’s no neat payoff. Just guilt, trauma, and a long trail of ex-friends.

Walter White didn’t just want to “provide for his family.” He wanted to feel like the universe owed him something—and when it didn’t pay up, he became the universe’s problem. Watching him morph into Heisenberg is like watching your dad get really into crypto and start calling himself an “alpha.”

Amanda Clarke from Revenge isn’t much better. She goes full Machiavelli in heels. She infiltrates high society to take down the people who framed her dad—and in the process, slowly turns into one of them. You know it’s bad when even your revenge plot has subplots.

“Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves.” – Confucius (or at least the internet version of him)

Revenge doesn’t heal. It haunts. And if your therapist charges $200 an hour, revenge charges your soul.

Why Can’t We Be More Like Shaft?

Let’s take a breather from all the tortured brooding and talk about someone who handles his business without spiraling into an existential crisis every five minutes: John Shaft.

Shaft is revenge fiction’s cool older cousin who doesn’t need an alter ego because he’s already whole. He doesn’t slip into madness, grow claws, or adopt a second name—he just walks into a room, says something smooth, and gets stuff done. No inner monologue. No moral agony. Just grit, justice, and style.

Here’s what makes Shaft different: he’s angry, sure—but he owns it. His anger doesn’t consume him; it fuels him. He doesn’t lose himself in vengeance because he never lets anyone else define who he is. He knows the system is broken. He knows justice is often DIY. But he doesn’t get lost in it. He stays Shaft—and somehow makes leather trench coats look like emotional armor.

Honestly? Watching most of these fictional characters unravel, you start to wonder:

*Are psychiatrists who Curtis Mayfield was talking about in his classic song “I’m Your Pusherman”?
Because half these people don’t need a gun—they need a prescription and a twice-weekly check-in with someone who says:

“Know thyself.” – Socrates, probably side-eyeing half the MCU right now.

And here’s the kicker: Shaft doesn’t need a mask to be powerful. He doesn’t hide behind a symbol. He is the symbol. While most characters fracture under the weight of dual identities, Shaft walks in fully integrated—what Foucault might call power without disguise.

“Power is not an institution, and not a structure… it is the name that one attributes to a complex strategical situation.” – Foucault, probably watching Shaft with admiration and fear.

Shaft is the complex strategical situation. Everyone else is just playing dress-up.

Final Thoughts: You vs. You (And Sometimes a Werewolf)

At the end of the day, alter egos and revenge stories aren’t really about villains. They’re about us—our insecurities, our grudges, our late-night fantasies of telling someone off and walking away in slow motion while something explodes in the background.

These stories hit because they remind us how hard it is to be a person. A person with baggage. With rage we swallow. With wounds we dress up as ambition. We all want to believe we’d be the Shaft in our own story—cool, unshakable, morally centered with a killer soundtrack—but let’s be honest: most of us are two stressful emails away from turning into Mr. Hyde.

“Where there is power, there is resistance.” – Foucault

Whether it’s the beast inside, the grief-fueled vendetta, or the charming psychopath in your mirror, every character in these stories is resisting something: society, morality, themselves.

And some of them lose.

Most of them do.

But then there’s Shaft—no split self, no mask, no melodrama. Just a man who knows the system’s rigged, knows who he is, and shows up anyway.

Maybe that’s the real power.
Maybe the rest of us are just monologuing in the dark.

Writing for Nothing and Ink Stains for Free

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Daily writing prompt
What job would you do for free?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE – FICTION

Writing was never the plan. I wanted something stable, normal—not this chaotic urge to bleed words onto a page. But here I am—caught off guard, and strangely okay with it.

You know that stability that gets beaten into your brain by your parents? The same folks who told you to follow your dreams? Yeah. I believed them—probably because they said it a few thousand times during my childhood with very sincere faces. But every time I actually tried to chase something I loved, it turned into: “Boy, you better get your head out of the clouds,” or “Son, you better get back into the real world.”

I worked a thousand jobs before I ever called myself a writer. The blame for all this goes squarely to Cheryl Whitmore. She gave me a journal when we graduated high school. Then, she sent me one every year for my birthday—for ten years—like she knew something I didn’t.

Since she kept sending the journals, I thought maybe Cheryl was into me. Like… romantically. But it turned out she’d had her heart broken and took a vow of celibacy. I wasn’t even sure she was serious. For a while, I figured it was just a clever way of shooting me down.

Years later, right after I published my first novel, I ran into her again, and she was still celibate. Like, the one person on earth not ruled by sex. She was kind of my hero after that, in a way I don’t really have the words for. Just… grounded. Steady. A rare person who didn’t want anything from me but gave me everything.

Now, I write in those journals every day. Or in ones that sort of look like them, depending on Amazon’s mood. You know how it goes—they’re out of stock when you actually need them and drowning in inventory when you don’t. I swear they do that on purpose.

Anyway, even if I hadn’t become a writer for real, I probably would’ve ended up working at the plant next to my dad, scribbling stories on the side for free.

Oh—and by the way, my parents? Yeah, they’ve read all my books. Twice. Now they hound me for the next one like it’s a Netflix series. But on weekends, Dad and I still tinker in the garage on his F-1 Ford pickup like nothing ever changed.

There’s nothing like being a writer. Honestly, why wouldn’t someone do it for free? We’re sorcerers—wielding words like spells, hoping each one leaves a mark. Our journals are ad-hoc grimoires, crammed with half-formed ideas, emotional incantations, and messy blue ink that somehow becomes meaning. We build memories out of language, wrap feelings in sentences, and send them into the world like bottled lightning. If even one of them sticks—if one person feels something they didn’t before—then the magic worked. And that’s the job.

Covid-19: When the Shit Got Real

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Daily writing prompt
How have you adapted to the changes brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Remember when “unprecedented times” became everyone’s favorite phrase? A true statement for the memories of most of the world’s inhabitants, but it still got on my nerves. I held my breath, waiting for someone to throw in the word surreal and say something like, “It’s so surreal, these are unprecedented times.” I swear, I would’ve walked away screaming as someone gently muttered, “Poor fella, everyone’s so overwhelmed.”

So—real talk: How did you adapt to the chaos Covid-19 dropped into our lives?
Did you start baking sourdough? Rethink your entire career? Form a codependent relationship with your couch? Go over your data plan because Netflix, RPGs, and Zoom somehow became a lifestyle?
Grow a beard that now has its own personality? (How’s that going, by the way?) Man, that time produced some truly unfortunate facial hair. Mine looked like a depressed squirrel had taken up residence on my face for a solid month. Eventually, it evened out—but the trauma lingers.

For me, my home became my fortress of solitude—equal parts sanctuary, bunker, and blanket fort. I was lucky: my stepmother, who lived through WWII, told me to stock up on essentials before the lockdown. And I listened.

The provisions—dry goods, paper products, all the basics you don’t think about until they vanish—were stacked neatly and inventoried like I was prepping for the end times. All of it sat on those hideous, industrial metal shelves that belong in basements or crime scenes, not in the middle of a living room.

But they got the job done. Ugly, but reliable. Kind of like the year itself.

I still can’t believe I actually listened, but it made all the difference. It was like the world we knew vanished before our eyes. People became mean and rude for what seemed like no reason.

But looking back, I think it was fear. Everyone just wanted something—anything—they could control. A place that felt safe.

While the world panicked under a double pandemic—Covid, that beast right there in your face that you had no idea which way it would attack, and Hysteria, the silent rogue creeping in from the shadows—I stayed still, battling my own fears.

Even though I was stocked, prepared, trained—it only provided the illusion of calm. A false sense of control.

I knew it. But I leaned on it anyway.

Because sometimes pretending you’re okay is the only way to survive long enough to actually be okay.

But I’ve been here before—in a different kind of war.

In battle, I was surrounded by people who didn’t just know how to survive. We knew what it took to live—no matter how damn hard it got.

That kind of clarity doesn’t leave you. It changes how you move through silence, how you handle fear, how you hold yourself when no one else is watching.

And because of the kind of isolation that comes with PTSD, I didn’t mind being cut off from people. If anything, it gave me space to finally look at my life without distraction.

I realized medication couldn’t fix everything. I had to put in the work. I had to face the demons—even when it felt like I was the demon.

It’s wild, the stories we tell ourselves about what happened to us. Over time, they twist. They shape how we react, instead of letting us respond.

I saw people pretend they were fine—but you could see the cracks.

You offer to help, because you know that darkness. You’ve walked alone in it. And you don’t want anyone else to be there if they’re not ready.

But the rub?

Sometimes, ready or not, you have to walk it anyway.

We’ve made strides in breaking the stigma around mental health. But no one wants to admit they need help—because no one wants to feel different. Or maybe the better word is broken.

But here’s the truth:

It’s okay to be broken. Everyone is. Some more, some less—but broken just the same.

And so we cope. We sip something, cry in the car, buy stuff we don’t need, gamble what we shouldn’t, scroll endlessly, smile when it’s easier than explaining.

All of it—just trying to hold the pieces together.

The world is big. So vast. And we are connected in so many different ways.

So I have to ask—why do we live it so small?

Speak your truth. As Uncle Walt said: sound your barbaric yawp over the rooftops of the world.

You never know when your words will reach someone at just the right moment—when they need it most—to begin to heal.

We are not alone.

How Not to Lose My Mind by 6 A.M.

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Daily writing prompt
What are your morning rituals? What does the first hour of your day look like?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

My cat is my alarm clock. Not metaphorically — literally. She’s the first thing I hear every morning, howling like she’s been abandoned in a void, despite living a life of uninterrupted luxury.

There’s no snooze button, no soft chime, no graceful start. Just claws on the floor, judgment in her eyes, and a relentless demand for breakfast.

So I get up. Not because I’m ready to greet the day, but because feline terrorism leaves no room for negotiation.

I feed her. I grind the coffee. These are the sacred rites of passage — the steps that transform me from a disoriented gremlin into someone who can form sentences.

If anything delays this ritual, I take it personally.
Why are you playing with my emotions? Who told you this was cool?

Once caffeine levels are in the green and nicotine’s holding the line — check, check — and the cat has retreated to whatever sun-drenched corner she’s claimed, I begin the real work: protecting my peace.

And look — I didn’t arrive at this approach because I’m naturally serene or some monk-in-disguise.

I got here because of the life I’ve lived. Because of the dents.
Because there are days when my mind goes rogue and starts offering me metaphorical jackets with buckles on the back.

“Give that a new coat,” it says. “It’s very nice. Leather straps. Fastens in the back. Do you want a new coat, Mr. Khan?”

And I answer like I’m seriously weighing the options.

“If you’re good, we’ve got lime Jello for you… You like lime, don’t you?”

And lime Jello is the truth. You don’t mess with lime.
Last time I cut up? They gave me lemon. No one likes lemon Jello.

That’s just mean. Downright mean.

So yeah, I’ve had to learn how to manage my mind, not just for peace — but for survival.

Calm isn’t some Instagram aesthetic for me. It’s a lifeline.
A way to keep the louder voices quiet and the darkness at bay.

That’s why I keep close something Alan Watts once said:

“Muddy water is best cleared by leaving it alone.
What we see as a clear mind is not the result of frantic activity.
It is clear as the morning, not because we scrubbed the sky, but because we left it alone.”

That line sticks with me because it echoes something ancient — something every major religion or philosophy seems to touch on:

The idea of inner stillness.
Of knowing yourself before engaging with the noise of the world.

In Sufism, Rumi wrote:

“There is a voice that doesn’t use words. Listen.”

In Buddhism, from the Dhammapada:

“Better than a thousand hollow words is one word that brings peace.”

And from the Bible, in Psalms:

“Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)

Different traditions. Same thread.
Peace isn’t something you chase. It’s something you uncover — when you get quiet enough.

That’s what I’m after each morning.

Some days it’s just coffee and silence.
Other days, a bit of journaling or staring into the void like it owes me money.

The practice doesn’t matter as much as the pause. The space.
The reminder that I get to choose how I show up — even if some days, that choice takes everything I’ve got.

But some mornings, I skip it.
The ritual. The silence. The pause.

Maybe I oversleep.
Maybe I pick up my phone before I breathe.
Maybe I think, “I’m fine, I don’t need it today.”

That’s the trap.
(Cue Admiral Ackbar voice: “It’s a trap!” — and yes, it absolutely plays in my head every time I skip my rituals like I’m going to be fine.)

Because when I skip my rituals, life turns to quicksand.
And no one’s coming to save me.

There’s no helpful rope, no dramatic movie rescue.
Just me, slowly sinking, pretending I can claw my way out of the churn.

I’m three seconds from a panic attack — except it doesn’t always look like panic.

Sometimes it’s quiet.
Like holding your breath without realizing it.
Like being trapped inside a breathless gasp, chained in place by something invisible.

A prison with no walls, but no doors either.

The anxiety doesn’t fade. It just lingers. Constant hum, just under the skin.
Everything feels urgent. Every noise too loud. Every thought too fast.

I forget what I was doing mid-sentence. I lose time. I react instead of respond.

And the worst part?
I can’t tell if it’s me or the world — and at that point, it doesn’t matter.

But I have to remember — the power to escape is within.

Not in some motivational-poster way.
Not in the “just breathe and manifest your peace” kind of way.

I mean that literally.

The same rituals I sometimes skip — the breath, the stillness, the silence, the coffee, the pause — they’re the tools.

The rope in the quicksand.
The key to the prison that looks like it has no door.

I have to choose to reach for them. Even when I don’t feel like it.
Especially then.

It’s not about fixing everything in that moment.

It’s about reclaiming one inch of space.
One breath. One clear thought.

Enough to remind myself that I’m not just a body riding out the chaos —
I’m a person with the ability to shift, to respond, to say:
“Not today. We’re not drowning today.”

A new pot sputters.
Serenity in a sip.

The cat breathes easy on her perch beside me, no longer screaming like the world’s on fire.
She’s fed. I’m fed — in my own way.

My eyes open each day at 5 a.m. Not by choice, but by necessity.
That’s when the mind starts. That’s when the first storm rolls in from the backcountry of my brain.

I wade through the madness in the regions of my mind, step by step, breath by breath.
No armor. Just ritual.

This — the coffee, the quiet, the stillness — this is how I survive myself.

I use these rituals to breathe.
To feel.
To live.

It’s 6 a.m.

You’re Not Just One Thing

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Daily writing prompt
Which aspects do you think makes a person unique?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

We hear it all the time—be yourself, own your story, embrace what makes you different. But underneath all the self-help slogans lies a tougher set of questions:

What actually makes a person unique?
Do we truly want to be different—or has “being unique” just become another trend to follow?

In a world where authenticity is marketed, curated, and hashtagged, it’s easy to confuse standing out with just fitting into a different mold. Sometimes, the pressure to be different starts to feel like pressure to be the same kind of different as everyone else.

And if your values or beliefs don’t match the current narrative? Suddenly, you’re not seen as “authentic”—you’re outdated. It’s become almost unpopular to carry forward ideas from previous generations, even if they still ring true for you.

So maybe the better question is this: What genuinely sets someone apart—not just on the surface, but underneath?

Let’s break it down.

It’s Not Just Traits—It’s the Mix

We like to think people are unique because of specific traits—talent, personality, interests, quirks. But that’s only part of the story. Lots of people are funny. Lots of people are driven. Lots of people love photography, or books, or fitness, or whatever else fills their feed.

What actually makes someone unique isn’t what they have—it’s how it all comes together.

Think about it—we’ve got all these phrases and ideals that define what’s considered attractive or impressive: “She’s out of my league,” “He’s the total package,” “Tall, dark, and yummy.” But what makes someone stand out isn’t universal. It’s a matter of perspective—and perspective is as unique as the person doing the observing.

Two women can look at the same man and see completely different things. One might be drawn to his confidence. The other might notice the way he listens. Sure, they might agree on some traits, but certain qualities hit differently for each of them. The same goes for men looking at women. It’s not just about who someone is, but how they’re seen.

That’s the thing about uniqueness—it’s not just defined by the individual. It’s also shaped by how others experience them.

What Actually Makes Someone Unique?

If it’s not just traits or appearances, then what does shape a person’s uniqueness?

Here’s the real mix:

1. Life Experiences
Where you’ve been and what you’ve been through leaves a mark. Not just the big, dramatic moments—but the subtle stuff, too. The way you were raised, the schools you went to, the losses you’ve dealt with, the opportunities you got—or didn’t get. Two people can share the same background on paper and still have completely different stories because the details matter. How you felt in those moments, what you took from them—that’s what shapes you.

“We are not the same person we were a year ago, a month ago, or a week ago. We’re constantly evolving.” – Bob Dylan

2. Values and Beliefs
What do you care about? What would you stand up for—or walk away from? Your internal compass, even if it evolves over time, sets you apart. Especially when you’re not afraid to hold onto a belief that’s no longer trendy or socially rewarded.

But here’s the thing—our values don’t come out of thin air. They’re shaped by what we’ve lived through. The hard lessons, the turning points, the people who’ve impacted us (for better or worse)—they all influence what we believe is right, what we think matters, and what we refuse to compromise on.

“Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice.” – Steve Jobs

3. Perspective
You and someone else could be in the same room, hearing the same words, living through the same event—and walk away with two completely different takeaways. That’s perspective. It’s built on your experiences, your beliefs, and your personality. It’s what makes your voice different when you tell a story, give advice, or solve a problem. It’s the lens through which you see the world, and no one else has that exact lens.

“We don’t see things as they are, we see them as we are.” – Anaïs Nin

4. Habits and Patterns
It’s easy to overlook, but the way you move through daily life says a lot. How you react to stress. How you celebrate wins. Whether you overthink or dive in headfirst. How you communicate. How you rest. These patterns—formed over time through repetition, trauma, trial and error—become part of your personal rhythm. And even if they seem small, they help define how others experience you.

“First we make our habits, then our habits make us.” – Charles C. Noble

5. Choices
This is where it all comes together. Every day, you make choices—what to do with your time, who to keep close, what to speak up about, what to ignore. And over time, those decisions stack up and start to shape the path you’re on. Some people let life decide for them. Others step in and make intentional moves. Either way, your choices are the clearest expression of who you are—and who you’re becoming.

“You are free to choose, but you are not free from the consequences of your choice.” – Anonymous

The Myth of a Fixed Identity

We act like identity is something you’re born with. Like it’s a fixed list of traits you carry for life: shy or outgoing, creative or logical, introvert or extrovert. But real life doesn’t work like that.

People change.

And not just in surface-level ways. The core of who you are—your beliefs, your boundaries, your goals—can shift over time. Sometimes because of trauma. Sometimes because of growth. Sometimes because you simply outgrow the story you’ve been telling yourself.

The idea that there’s one “real you” hiding somewhere, waiting to be discovered, is a nice thought. But it’s not that simple. You don’t find yourself—you build yourself. Bit by bit. Choice by choice. Day by day.

“The self is not something ready-made, but something in continuous formation through choice of action.” – John Dewey

So if you feel like you’re changing, evolving, rethinking things—that’s not a crisis of identity. That’s you becoming more you.

Why This Matters in Real Life

All this talk about uniqueness isn’t just for introspection or personality quizzes. It has real weight in how you live.

Knowing what makes you unique helps you stop chasing someone else’s version of success. You stop comparing yourself to people who are on completely different paths. You start making decisions that actually align with you—not just what looks good on paper or plays well on social media.

It also changes how you connect with others. When you understand that everyone’s shaped by a different mix of experience, values, and perspective, you build empathy. You listen differently. You judge less. You become more curious and less quick to assume.

And here’s the kicker: knowing your own uniqueness helps you spot your strengths—even the ones you didn’t know you had. The way you solve problems. The way you see people. The way you stay calm under pressure. These things might feel ordinary to you, but they’re often what make you valuable to others.

“Too many people overvalue what they are not and undervalue what they are.” – Malcolm Forbes

So this isn’t just about self-discovery—it’s about self-awareness that leads to better choices, stronger relationships, and a life that feels more like yours.

Final Thoughts

All of this is easier said than done. Truth is, no matter how open-minded we are or how willing we are to stand out from the crowd, life has a way of pulling us back into old habits. Not because we’re ignorant. Not because we think those habits are right. We go back because they feel safe.

Comfort is familiar. Change isn’t.

And sometimes, even the most self-aware people still choose the version of themselves that feels known—even if it’s smaller than who they’re becoming.

“Consistency is the last refuge of the unimaginative.” – Oscar Wilde

So yes, being unique takes effort. It takes intention. But the point isn’t to be different for the sake of it—it’s to be honest about who you are, even when it’s inconvenient, even when it’s uncomfortable.

That’s what makes someone truly stand out.

The Museum of Knuckleheads – Exhibit A: The Credit Card Burial

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Daily writing prompt
If you could have something named after you, what would it be?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

The last time this question was asked, this was what I had to say about it:

The Knucklehead Museum

So, I decided today, what if I turned this cute moment between my wife and I into something else? Here’s what I came up with…

Docent Notes, Entry No. 1: Exhibit A – The Credit Card Burial

Welcome to the Museum of Knuckleheads. Admission is free. Consequences are not.

If you’re here, chances are you’re curious, lost, mildly disappointed with your life trajectory—or just trying to kill ten minutes before the Wi-Fi comes back. All valid. This museum wasn’t built for the elite, the wise, or the well-adjusted. It was built for people like me. People like you. People who have stared into the mirror mid-shower and muttered, “Well… that was a choice.”

Let’s begin the tour.

Exhibit A: The Time I Tried to Bury a Credit Card in the Backyard to “Reset My Finances”

Yes, you read that right. That’s an actual dirt-filled display under the buzzing overhead lights. A plastic shovel from a gas station. A laminated credit card. A tiny American flag, for irony.

This was during a phase I call “financial experimentalism,” which is what you call it when you’re broke but still wildly confident. The plan was simple: if burning sage can cleanse a house, why not dig a shallow grave for debt?

I buried the card behind the shed. Said a few words. Patted the soil like it was a dog I was letting go. And then I waited. For what? Honestly, I don’t know. Divine intervention. A good credit score. A sitcom-style reset button.

Spoiler: Capital One does not care if your card is underground. Interest kept growing as if it were photosynthesizing.

Lessons, If You’re the Type Who Learns

  • Debt doesn’t decompose.
  • Just because an idea feels spiritual doesn’t mean it isn’t objectively stupid.
  • Always check where underground sprinklers are before committing to symbolic rituals.

The exhibit still smells faintly like wet dirt and a bad decision you swore you’d only make once. Sometimes, I swear the card shifts positions overnight. Like it’s clawing its way back up.

People laugh when I tell them this one. They assume it’s exaggerated. I let them believe that. It’s easier than admitting it was the most hopeful I’d felt in months.

Closing Notes from the Docent

This museum isn’t here to mock you. It’s here to reflect you—bad choices and all. You may not see yourself in this exhibit. Not yet. But wait a bit. Everyone’s got a shovel moment.

Next time: Exhibit B – Neck Tattoos I Almost Got at 3 A.M.

Until then, take a number. You’ll be up soon.

—Docent, Senior Raconteur
Museum of Knuckleheads

Share your own Exhibit

Ever made a decision so irrational that it felt oddly brilliant at the time? Leave it in the comments. One day, we might just build a wing for you. Don’t be shy …

As always, I’d like to shout out the folks who provided inspiration.

Ragtag Daily Prompt

Fandango

Thank you guys for doing what you do

Top 5 Ways to Ask a Girl Out: Rule #2

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Daily writing prompt
What makes you laugh?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE – FICTION SHORT SERIES

Top 5 Ways to Ask a Girl Out: Rule #2
Don’t insult her car. Even if it deserves it.

We walked down the driveway in silence. Not the comfortable, romantic kind of silence. More like the kind where you know you’re about to meet something terrifying and no one wants to be the first to scream.

Her car came into view. If a rusted toaster had anxiety, it would look like this. The paint was more of a suggestion. The bumper was being held on by what looked like hope and duct tape. One of the side mirrors was missing entirely, probably in protest.

“This is it,” she said, completely straight-faced.

I nodded slowly. “Cool. Vintage… apocalypse chic.”

She raised an eyebrow.

Damn it.

“I mean—it has character. You don’t see this kind of structural chaos every day.”

She laughed. “It’s a piece of crap. You can say it.”

“No! I mean… yes. But lovingly.”

Smooth.

I crouched down to check out the front wheel, pretending to know what I was doing. Which I mostly did. I watched a lot of videos. Some had music. That counts.

“So what’s it doing?” I asked.

“It makes this… sound,” she said, twisting her face like she was bracing for judgment. “Kind of a high-pitched… squeal? Or a scream? It’s hard to describe. Definitely not a sound cars are supposed to make.”

“Got it,” I said. “A banshee vibe.”

She nodded. “Exactly. Like if a haunted violin and a blender had a baby.”

I popped the hood. Steam hissed out like the car was sighing in defeat. I was immediately sweating. From heat, stress, and fear that I was about to electrocute myself in front of someone I liked.

“You don’t have to actually fix it,” she said. “I just thought you might know a guy or something.”

“I am the guy,” I said, way too confidently.

I was not the guy.

Still, I grabbed a wrench like I meant business. Tools make you look legitimate. I tapped something metal. It made a sound. Not a good one.

She leaned over my shoulder. “You sure this is safe?”

“Totally,” I lied. “I’ve done this… dozens of times.”

Once. On YouTube. At 2AM. After searching “how to fix car without dying.”

The gnome wasn’t there anymore. I kind of missed him.

I’m laughing … are you?

Let me know when you are ready for Rule #3

Here’s the link to Rule #1

Still Flying

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Daily writing prompt
When you were five, what did you want to be when you grew up?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

When you’re five, everything feels big.
The world, your dreams, your backpack.

But as you get older, you can’t always hold onto things without a little help.

That’s what happened when I found it—
a flash of memory caught in an old photo,
a school project that somehow survived.
Battered, scarred, but solid.
Like the dreams taped inside it.

I just wanted to fly.
I couldn’t explain why, not then.
I just did.

To see the world.
The wonders from our primers,
the postcard places that looked too perfect to be real.

Maybe I’d discover new lands,
find cool toys, read comics in French.
Were mummies scary? I needed to know.

Was riding a motorcycle as cool as it looked in the movies?
Could I jump cars like Evel Knievel?
Would I one day ride with a girl on the back,
smiling like it was the best thing ever?

I knew I wasn’t old enough for that part.
Maybe when I get big.

Would I be able to sing and dance?
Be cool like Elvis?
Tough like G.I. Joe?
Stretch like Stretch Armstrong?
Or maybe I’d just build the wild stuff I made with my Legos.

But mostly…
Mostly, I wanted to make my mom proud.

And now—
I did fly.

France, Italy, Spain, Japan—majestic in ways no book ever captured.
There’s nothing like flying over treetops with the chopper doors open.
Heart racing.
Then pounding.
Blood surging through my veins.
I felt something I still can’t describe with words.

I never jumped cars,
but I had that girl on the back.
Her arms around me,
her heartbeat against mine,
that sharp little yelp when things got wild.
Yeah, that was something.

I don’t sing, but boy, did I dance.
And when I stopped… I got fat.

Some say I was tougher than G.I. Joe.
And somehow, my influence stretched across the globe.
But no one will ever know my name.

What I remember most—
Mom’s smile as she talked about “the grands,”
each one certain they were her favorite.
Each one knowing they were loved.

As for me…
Did I make her proud?

God, I hope so.

Understanding Yourself Costs Nothing—But Changes Everything

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Daily writing prompt
What’s something most people don’t understand?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

It seems like most people don’t really understand themselves—not deep down, not at the core. We’re constantly hit with ads telling us to “live our best life” or “be our best self.” Sure, there are things we’d like to change. But we rarely have the resources to make those changes. Ask anyone what they need most to improve their life, and they’ll probably say: more money. And honestly, they’re not wrong. More money could solve a lot. But it also brings its own set of problems.

What we really need is a better understanding of ourselves. That alone could make a huge difference. And guess what? It doesn’t cost a thing—except time and the willingness to take an honest look inward. Then comes the hard part: doing the actual work to change. That’s tough, especially when we’ve been conditioned to look outside ourselves for answers. Blame is our default setting—blame the system, the job, the partner, the timing.

On the flip side, some people internalize everything. I’ve done that. I’ve paid the price for it too—meds meant to manage the fallout of swallowing emotions and ignoring my own needs. But here’s the truth: just realizing that about myself has helped more than any prescription ever could.

From Craft to Clicks: Tech’s Effect on Careers

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Daily writing prompt
How has technology changed your job?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

My hands still ache, but in a different way now. My fingers still get stained—just for different reasons. I’m typing with the same number of fingers, making the same amount of mistakes.

Change has happened, but I’m starting to see the benefit.

I don’t have to press down hard to make triplekits anymore, but now the paper’s cheaper—it tears at the slightest pull. Speed replaced accuracy. People don’t bother learning the whole craft, just a piece of it. Then they turn around and make a video about how to do what they just learned, but they don’t know shit.

Now 24,000 people watched that video and walked away worse off than before. Would’ve been better if the person just said, “I don’t know—let a professional handle it.”

Shoddy work leads to crappy parts, which means more downtime, more delays. But hey, you got it in two days. That’s cool, right?

The Joy of Losing Yourself in Writing and Art

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Daily writing prompt
What activities do you lose yourself in?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

The last time I answered this prompt, I think I went with something obnoxiously grand like “A Good Story.” I should be shot for sounding so pretentious. But I wasn’t lying—just leaving out the messier bits of the truth.

When I’m in creation mode, the real world ceases to exist. I don’t hear, see, or care about anything other than the story I’m writing or the drawing I’m working on. It’s like my brain switches dimensions, and all outside stimuli become irrelevant. This used to drive my late wife insane. She’d be talking, calling my name, possibly setting the house on fire, and I’d be sitting there, oblivious, lost in whatever imaginary world had taken hold of me. I’d come back to reality only to find her standing there, arms crossed, staring daggers into my soul. And honestly? Fair. It’s a miracle I survived as long as I did.

Writers have been called time travelers, and I think that’s dead-on. But it makes me wonder—when we write, are we building new worlds or excavating old memories? Because when I write, the worlds feel real. I don’t mean in an “I have a well-thought-out setting with consistent internal logic” way. No, I mean in an I can hear the wind howling through the trees, smell the rain-soaked earth, and feel the blood on my hands kind of way. It’s a full-blown sensory experience. I write down everything I see, hear, and feel, but don’t ask me to explain where it all comes from because I genuinely have no clue.

And then there’s the time warp. I sit down to write, and suddenly, five hours have passed. Meals have been skipped. Hydration? Forgotten. Responsibilities? Who’s she? But in exchange for this self-imposed neglect, I get The Surge. The best way I’ve ever found to describe it comes from the movie Highlander. I call it The Quickening. It’s this electric, all-consuming rush—pure creative adrenaline surging through every nerve in my body. I’d say it’s better than drugs, but let’s be real, I wouldn’t know. It’s definitely better than caffeine, though. And I say that as someone whose blood type is probably espresso.

Drawing, however, is a completely different beast. I still lose track of time, but the sensation isn’t electric—it’s tranquil. A deep, bone-melting calm settles over me. My heartbeat slows, my breathing evens out, and for those few hours, the chaos of existence takes a backseat. If writing is an untamed storm, then drawing is a slow, meditative drift down a lazy river. It’s the only thing that relaxes me more than pretending I don’t have responsibilities.

So yeah, I love getting lost in a good story. But really, I just love getting lost. Period. Maybe that’s why I do what I do—because the real world is often too loud, too dull, or just too much. And if I’m going to vanish into another reality, it might as well be one of my own making.

Still the Same

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Daily writing prompt
What is the greatest gift someone could give you?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I reread my comments from a year ago, and they are as valid now as they were then. Here is what I had to say.

The Most Intimate Gift

Ice Cream Solves Everything

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Daily writing prompt
Do you spend more time thinking about the future or the past? Why?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

The last time I approached this topic, I spoke about using the past from a writer’s perspective. This still remains true, but things are a little different this year. Here are my thoughts from last year.

Perception is our Reality

Sometimes, it seems like my characters learn from my triumphs and follies. I try not to push my opinions on the characters I create. I try to let them live their own lives independently. To be free of my prejudices, quirks, and code. Honestly, I think there is a part of us in the characters we create, whether it’s the protagonist, antagonist, or supporting character. This upsets me now and again because I try so hard not to do this. It is an unrealistic endeavor, perhaps, but one I need to work towards. I think of this when frustration gets the better of me.

“The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper.”
— W.B. Yeats

I think about what Yeats is talking about, more precisely, what it means to me and how it can be applied. As I age, I repeatedly find that my opinion about certain things has changed drastically. I’m not a different person at the core, but I have definitely evolved. Whether better or worse, it is too early to say. I think that determination is what’s important. Yet, awareness of the evolution and acceptance are crucial for growth and understanding.

This quote comes to mind when thinking about the past or the future.

“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning.”
— Albert Einstein

I love this quote because life lessons shape our current lives, and I hope we can pass on the wisdom. I suppose it’s a part of our legacy—the things we have discovered along the way. Some may say it’s our duty to share this wisdom. I see the truth in that opinion. We watch others stumble about trying to accomplish something, and we have a different approach to assist them in completing their task. However, let’s take a moment to consider this: each person’s path to personal growth is, in fact, personal. We can advise them, not lead them. Also, Buddha advises us on the following:

“Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment.”
— Buddha

If we spend too much time passing on the wisdom of our lessons learned, we are trying to fulfill our dreams of a brighter future—not only for ourselves but also for the person we pass on the knowledge to. By doing so, we aren’t concentrating on the most important period: the present.

My final thoughts: Our past, present, and future are contained in each breath. Our past has made us the people we are in this moment. It lays the foundation for the pathway of our future. Every breath is the catalyst for our evolution; don’t fight it. Remember, the difference between life and death is a single breath; don’t waste it.

Excuse me while I get coffee and an ice cream sandwich because ice cream solves everything.

A Day without Learning, A Day Wasted

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Daily writing prompt
What colleges have you attended?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

A year ago, I had this to say about this prompt

Distance Learning: The School of Hard Knocks

I still firmly believe in the benefits of distance learning, and online advancements have made it even easier. Since I first made this post, I’ve looked into the number of colleges and universities available, and the results are staggering. People who want an Ivy League education can take courses from those institutions for free, and many offer affordable online programs.

I started saying a mantra as a teenager.

“A day without learning something is a day wasted”

Everyday, I try to learn a new skill, add a layer to existing one, or practice. So, take the time to look into the programs that might interest you. Have fun and good luck!

To be Young at Heart

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Daily writing prompt
Do you play in your daily life? What says “playtime” to you?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

A year ago, WordPress asked this same question. I responded with the post below.

I Don’t Have Time for This … I’m a Grown @$$ Man.

I faced many challenges during that year. These challenges have reminded me that there are more important things than I ever imagined. It is very easy to get lost in the mayhem of life. One of the most important things we overlook is remaining young at heart. It’s important to remember to enjoy every opportunity.

Throughout my adult life, I have often lost sight of enjoying the little things. But I’ve learned to appreciate them in the past year, and I’ve rediscovered my love for the creative arts. So, “playtime” for me is diving deeper into my creativity. I love to see what I can create. The creative arts have helped me heal and kept me sane during one of the most trying times in my life. So, pick up what you use to enjoy yourself, then go crazy.

Excuse me while I make up a silly story and create bizarre images.

America’s Favorite Pastime (Revisited)

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If you started a sports team, what would the colors and mascot be?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

The last time this question was asked, I decided to write a bit of flash fiction as a response. The link to that story is listed below.

America’s Favorite Pastime

I never anticipated the response to the story. It blew me away. It was just a little idea I came up with, and I decided to write something. However, the comment that struck me the most was my brother’s comment that he wanted to see more artwork featuring pink ferrets and angry platypuses. I told him there was an image already with the story. He nodded as he peered over his glasses.

“I want to see what they would like now, seeing you are better with computer art.”

I laughed and said I would, but I never got around to it. Well, the prompt appeared again. Now, I need to reimage the graphics for the story. So, I sat down and created a roster for the Rico Strong Traveling Pink Ferrets and Angry Platypus. I will probably rewrite the story, but we start with the graphics first.

Here are a few mockups of the project.

Cute mockups:

Realistic Approaches:

Have you read this?

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Daily writing prompt
Who are the biggest influences in your life?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Many years ago, I learned that no one has all the answers. This revelation also led me to discover that wisdom can be found in the oddest places or with the strangest people. As I struggled to answer this prompt, I found an answer that said it all. The truth of this post moved me and helped me find my way to an answer.

I rely on my faith in my journey through the chaos we call life. It has guided me through some of the toughest situations. Without it, I’m not sure who or what I would be. I talked to many people as I’ve walked this journey searching for peace. Only to discover that the peace sought had resided within the entire time. I cannot remember the name of the person who pointed me toward this path, but I’m thankful.

Through my travels, I realize the potential of love resides in each of us, no matter the faith. I’ve seen people of different faiths band together to perform majestic things. It is a wonderful experience to witness and to feel. I don’t have the words to adequately describe its wonder. I’m inspired by people who are steadfast and true in their beliefs and commitment to help their fellow man.

Throughout my journey, I’ve studied several different texts in the hope of gaining a deeper understanding of the world. Though I have stumbled and sometimes questioned certain events, I feel that each step has been worth taking. I remember my father posing a query as he held up his tattered Bible.

Have you read this?

A Journey into 1969

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Daily writing prompt
Share what you know about the year you were born.
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I’ve always been a fan of history. I can babble about various eras throughout at a moment’s notice. I once had a secretary tell me I could do things that happened 3000 years ago, but I can’t remember to check my email or voicemail. I laughed my butt off when she said it because it was entirely accurate. Despite all the things in history I researched, I never looked into the year I was born.

So, spent most of the day researching events of 1969 and discovered I did, in fact, know many of them. So, the excitement I was feeling sort of dwindled. Then I kept digging and found some cool stuff that requires further research so things are right in the universe again. I would have had this post out earlier, but I fell into the rabbit hole and started reading newspaper articles about the events I was researching. I also started following local events that were only important to the people involved. So deep, I became jittery from the lack of coffee. So, I had to stop and get my caffeine and nicotine levels back in tolerance.

I’m not even close to finishing my research in 1969, but I thought I had better stop and post the research outline I had composed. I fully expect several from the stoop and knucklehead reports to stem from my research.

Global Events

  • Apollo 11 Moon Landing (July 20, 1969) 
    • NASA astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to land and walk on the Moon.
  • Vietnam War Escalation 
    • Ongoing conflict: U.S. troop levels peaked, and anti-war protests grew worldwide.
  • Sino-Soviet Border Conflict 
    • Armed clashes occurred between China and the Soviet Union along their shared border.
  • Stonewall Riots (June 28, 1969)
    • A pivotal moment in the LGBTQ+ rights movement started at the Stonewall Inn in New York City.
  • Charles Manson Arrested (December 1969) 
    • Manson and members of his cult were arrested for a series of murders in California, including that of actress Sharon Tate.
  • Coup in Libya (September 1, 1969)
    • Muammar Gaddafi led a bloodless coup to overthrow King Idris, beginning his long rule over Libya.
  • Brazil’s AI-5 Dictatorship
    • Institutional Act No. 5 tightened the military dictatorship’s control, suspending civil liberties and intensifying oppression.
  • The First Mont Blanc Tunnel Opened (July 16, 1969)
    • Connecting Italy and France, this tunnel improved European transportation networks.

Science and Technology

  • ARPANET Goes Online (October 29, 1969)
    • The precursor to the internet successfully transmitted its first message between UCLA and Stanford.
  • Concorde Makes Its Maiden Flight (March 2, 1969)  
    • The supersonic aircraft completed its first test flight in France.
  • Mariner 6 and Mariner 7 Missions  
    • NASA spacecraft sent back close-up images of Mars.
  • First Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) Installed in the U.S.
    • Chemical Bank in Rockville Centre, New York, installed the first U.S. ATM on September 2, 1969.
  • Creation of the Monty Python Comedy Troupe
    • Although their show debuted in 1969, the group formed earlier that year and shaped modern comedy.
  • First Transcontinental Boeing 747 Flight
    • While its commercial debut came in 1970, Boeing conducted its first long-range test flights in 1969, revolutionizing air travel.
  • First Manned Flight of the Lunar Module (March 3, 1969)
    • Apollo 9 tested the Lunar Module in Earth’s orbit, a critical step toward the Moon landing.
  • Soyuz 4 and Soyuz 5 Docking (January 1969)
    • The Soviet Union achieved the first successful docking of two manned spacecraft in orbit.
  • First Artificial Heart Implant in a Human
    • Dr. Denton Cooley implanted the first artificial heart into a patient as a bridge to transplantation.
  • Discovery of Reverse Transcriptase in Viruses
    • The enzyme reverse transcriptase was identified, laying the groundwork for advances in genetic engineering and virology.
  • Advances in Organ Transplantation
    • Immunosuppressive drugs were improved, increasing the success rate of organ transplants.
  • Introduction of UNIX
    • Developed at Bell Labs by Ken Thompson and Dennis Ritchie, UNIX became a foundational operating system for modern computing.
  • The Birth of Microprocessors
    • Developments in integrated circuits paved the way for the microprocessor, though commercial products were still a few years away.

Political Events

  • Richard Nixon Becomes U.S. President (January 20, 1969)
    • Nixon was inaugurated as the 37th President of the United States.
  • Yasser Arafat Becomes Chairman of the PLO  
    • Arafat was elected to lead the Palestine Liberation Organization.
  • The Troubles Begin in Northern Ireland
    •  A violent ethno-nationalist conflict erupted, lasting for decades.
  • Montreal Expos and Kansas City Royals Debut (1969) 
    • Major League Baseball expanded, introducing these teams.
  • The Voting Age Debate in the U.S.
    • Ongoing discussions began to lower the voting age from 21 to 18, eventually leading to the 26th Amendment in 1971.
  • The Cuyahoga River Fire (June 22, 1969)
    • The river in Cleveland, Ohio, caught fire due to severe pollution, sparking national outrage and leading to environmental reforms.
  • The Black Panther Party’s Free Breakfast for Children Program
    • The program expanded in 1969, providing meals to thousands of children and bringing attention to social inequities.
  • Swann v. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education
    • A U.S. Supreme Court case began challenging racial segregation in public schools through busing, influencing desegregation efforts.
  • The Chappaquiddick Incident (July 18, 1969)
    • Senator Ted Kennedy’s car accident on Chappaquiddick Island resulted in the death of Mary Jo Kopechne, raising questions about his political future.

Cultural Highlights

  • Sesame Street Premieres (November 10, 1969)
    • The educational children’s TV show debuted on PBS.
  • The Santa Barbara Channel Platform A Oil Spill
    • Though overshadowed by other environmental events, this spill marked one of the largest in U.S. history, leading to modern environmental activism.
  • First Issue of New York Magazine
    • The magazine debuted in 1969, influencing American journalism and pop culture.

Music 

Major Events

  • Woodstock Music Festival (August 15-18, 1969)
    • Held in Bethel, New York, Woodstock became an iconic event of the counterculture movement. It featured legendary performances by Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Santana, and more.
  • The Altamont Free Concert (December 6, 1969) 
    • Organized by the Rolling Stones, this concert turned violent, with the Hells Angels providing chaotic security, leading to the death of a concertgoer.
  • The Beatles’ Abbey Road Released (September 26, 1969)
    • Featuring hits like “Come Together” and “Here Comes the Sun,” *Abbey Road* became one of the band’s most iconic albums.
  • The Beatles Perform for the Last Time Together (January 30, 1969)
    • The famous rooftop concert at Apple Corps in London marked their final public performance as a band.
  • Led Zeppelin’s Rise to Fame
    • The band released their debut album, “Led Zeppelin” (January 12, 1969), and their second album, “Led Zeppelin II” (October 22, 1969), revolutionizing rock music.

Album Releases

  • The Rolling Stones – “Let It Bleed” (December 5, 1969)  
    • Featuring classics like “Gimme Shelter” and “You Can’t Always Get What You Want.”
  • David Bowie – “Space Oddity” (July 11, 1969) 
    • The album featured Bowie’s breakthrough single “Space Oddity,” inspired by the Apollo 11 moon landing.
  • Johnny Cash – “At San Quentin” (June 1969)
    • A live album recorded at San Quentin Prison featuring the hit “A Boy Named Sue.”
  • The Who – “Tommy” (May 23, 1969) 
    • A rock opera about a “deaf, dumb, and blind boy,” which became a milestone in progressive rock.
  • Crosby, Stills & Nash – “Crosby, Stills & Nash” (May 1969)
    • The trio’s debut album features hits like “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes.”
  • Grand Funk Railroad – “On Time” (August 1969) 
    • debut album, while initially dismissed by critics, provided a sonic roadmap for the success that followed

Genre Milestones

  • The Birth of Heavy Metal
    • Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath (their self-titled album recorded in late 1969), and Deep Purple helped define the heavy metal genre.
  • Motown’s Continued Dominance
    • Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross & The Supremes, and Marvin Gaye released hits like “My Cherie Amour” and “Someday We’ll Be Together.”
  • Country Rock Emerges 
    • Albums like The Byrds’ *Dr. Byrds & Mr. Hyde* and The Flying Burrito Brothers’ *The Gilded Palace of Sin* popularized the genre.
  • Jazz Fusion Gains Traction
    • Miles Davis began working on *Bitches Brew* (released in 1970), blending jazz with rock elements.

Live Performances and Innovations

  • The Harlem Cultural Festival (Summer 1969)
    • Known as the “Black Woodstock,” this series of concerts in Harlem showcased artists like Nina Simone, Stevie Wonder, and Sly and the Family Stone.
  • Introduction of the Moog Synthesizer in Popular Music
    • The Moog synthesizer was prominently featured in albums like Wendy Carlos’s *Switched-On Bach,* helping to popularize electronic music.

Notable Singles

  • “Suspicious Minds” – Elvis Presley (1969)  
  • “Honky Tonk Women” – The Rolling Stones (1969) 
  • “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In” – The 5th Dimension (1969)  
  • “Bad Moon Rising” – Creedence Clearwater Revival (April 1969) 
  • “Pinball Wizard” – The Who (March 1969)

Movies 

Box Office Leaders

  • Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
  • The Love Bug
  • Midnight Cowboy 
  • Easy Rider 
  • Hello, Dolly!

Award-Winning Films:

  • “Midnight Cowboy”: Won Best Picture Oscar, first X-rated film to do so
  • “True Grit”: Earned John Wayne his only Academy Award for Best Actor
  • “Z”: Won Best Foreign Film Oscar
  • “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie”: Earned Maggie Smith Best Actress
  • “Cactus Flower”: Brought Goldie Hawn Best Supporting Actress

Notable International Releases

  • Army of Shadows: French war drama directed by Jean-Pierre Melville
  • Pierrot le fou: French crime drama by Jean-Luc Godard
  • Simon of the Desert: Spanish historical drama by Luis Buñuel
  • On Her Majesty’s Secret Service: Sixth James Bond fi\47

Hoodwinked – Revisited (Year Later)

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Daily writing prompt
Are you a good judge of character?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I suppose everyone would love to say yes to the prompt question, and that would be correct, generally speaking. We have had a lifetime of experiences to teach about the content of one’s character—a lifetime of trial and error, a lifetime of being hoodwinked. Hoodwinked was the title of my response to this question a year ago. That post can be found here.

I think we want to take people at their word. For centuries, we have judged people based on so many different aspects that it would make your head spin. We’ve judged people by race, creed, religion, and sexual orientation. We never even bothered to find out what kind of person they were at the core. We have relied on stereotypes and preconceptions taught to us by society. Societal standards aren’t altogether false; we all have certain beliefs based on these standards. However, we have to be strong enough to stand up against the things that have proven false.

Let me take a moment and list a few things I have heard over the years. These examples should provide a clearer picture of the point I’m trying to illustrate.

  1. “The whole family has been trouble since I’ve known them. There isn’t a good one in the lot!”
  2. “Those Muslims are trying to kill us. It’s in their book.”
  3. “They chose to be that way. They are going to burn in hell.”
  4. “Shiftless and lazy has been my experience with them. They aren’t smart enough to understand what is really going on.
  5. “What do you expect from a woman?”

I’ve heard this nonsense in the last year, and it’s hard to believe that some of it is still being said. I won’t even touch some things I see on social media. The hardest pill to swallow is when the mess comes out of the mouth of someone you thought you knew. Events like these make you question your judgment. We sometimes change our opinion of someone based on a single action or statement. However, I suggest not reacting in haste because everyone has a bad day. Also, we have no idea of their struggles and haven’t shared.

Dr. Maya Angelou offers this advice.

I’ve found this quote to be quite helpful over the years. I’ve tried to minimize placing my expectations or principles on individuals and allowed them to be themselves. In some cases, you will be surprised by someone’s actions. I’ve been in situations where the least likely person came to my aid. You just never know. The only I can hope for is not to be hoodwinked.

Who, you calling soft?

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Daily writing prompt
Is your life today what you pictured a year ago?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

A year ago, I had just begun dealing with my health issues and thought everything would be over in a few weeks. I just wanted everything to be over, and I could return to my life. Friends and family were on my case about taking a step back and focusing on my health. Of course, this advice was like a thousand spikes hammered into my ears. I didn’t want to step back from work, retire, or any other nonsense in that arena. Do you think I’m soft? I got this! Who are you calling soft? No one was calling me soft, but that was my mindset.

A few months later, I got better, like I said from the beginning. However, my health improvement was short-lived. It was non-existent if I’m honest about it. Nothing more than a figment of my imagination. The characters I create for my stories are closer to reality than my reprieve from illness. My condition worsened, forcing me into retirement, and I was pissed. Here’s the problem: I wasn’t sure what I was actually upset about. I had prepared financially for retirement in a year or so. 2026 was the target year, but I could retire at any time before that. However, I didn’t like the idea of being forced to do something. However, health-wise, I was in no condition to do anything but try to get better.

Well, it turns out that my condition was worse than I thought, to the point where it was almost impossible for me to make this post or any others. Yeah, the shit had got real. So, no, where I am today versus a year ago. Not even close. I’m blessed

REBLOG: A Good Story

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Daily writing prompt
When are you most happy?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I reread this post from earlier this year and realized nothing has changed. Yet, I wonder why WordPress can’t develop any new material. Have we entered the remake era for daily prompt questions? If so, I don’t remember things going all that well with movies.

A Good Story

Same Ole Stuff

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Daily writing prompt
List your top 5 grocery store items.
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

  • Raw or Frozen Vegetables: This stems from nibbling on items grown in MiMi’s garden. No matter how many threats of death she hollered at me, I continued to nibble. However, I do remember there was a pepper on the counter that looked rather tasty and bit into it without a care. It burned my mouth somethings terrible. By the expression on MiMi’s face I always wondered if she set me up.
  • Canned Meat: I eat a ridiculous amount of tuna and white chicken chucks
  • Fresh Meat: Salmon, chicken, ground turkey and beef is brought regularly
  • Cat Food: Guppy sure eats alot for a cat that isn’t an aggressive eater. This is what the shelter said when I adopted her.
  • Sugary Treats: I typically eat rather healthy, but I find somehow these sugary treats keep appearing in the house. I think the shoppers feel sorry for me and slip these things into my order. I certainly don’t buy them, because they are “bad” for me.

A Notebook and Pen

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Daily writing prompt
Your life without a computer: what does it look like?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I can remember a world when the personal computer was something we saw on television. Interestingly enough, computers were often portrayed as villains. So, I smile when I read this prompt, thinking about how much our world has become intertwined with computers. I spend a considerable amount of time working on one of my computers daily. My life without a computer will be significantly affected, but not as much as you might think.

Today, I spent most of the day working with a notebook and a pen. I was collecting my thoughts about a post I want to publish here. I used several references to gather the information I needed to establish the point I was trying to make. Yet, these references weren’t a product of a Google search but rather from my personal library. I reviewed various volumes of information about philosophy, religion, and psychology. I didn’t have to use my computer once. All I needed was a notebook and a pen.

REBLOG: Boy! What’s that Sh** on your lip, dirt?

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Daily writing prompt
Tell us about your first day at something — school, work, as a parent, etc.
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Last year, I told the story of my first day in the military, which I thought would be appropriate for today’s prompt.

Boy! What’s that Sh** on your lip, dirt?

REBLOG: Let George Do It

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Daily writing prompt
Have you ever performed on stage or given a speech?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Here is my previous response to the prompt

Let George Do It

REBLOG: Walk, Don’t walk

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Daily writing prompt
What are your favorite physical activities or exercises?
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WordPress says I have already answered today’s prompt. Again, there is no sense repeating myself, so it’s REBLOG time.

Walk, Don’t walk

I Can’t Believe I’m Saying This…

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Daily writing prompt
What could you do less of?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Over the last several years, I’ve been constantly complaining about the amount of time I don’t have. I can’t wait to retire so I can do what the hell I want… I remember going on about several times over the years. However, not that I’m here I find I have too much time on my hands. I occupy it with ridiculous projects. I’ve might have mentioned character analysis of the character’s in Superman universe. Now, let me ask you, if I were to write a post with my findings about the Superman’s character … would you care? I mean really?

Yes, I long for the days of being overworked and underappreciated by “the man” or wait… can we say, “the man” anymore?

My Editor will kill me when she reads this …

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Daily writing prompt
What do you enjoy most about writing?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

One of my favorite parts of writing is the creation of the story. To listen to the story being told to my soul. I know that sounds a little strange, zany even, but this is how I feel whenever I pick up a pen and start writing a story. In this instance, I’m more of a recorder than a writer. Strange, I know, but it is like my pen has a mind of its own. Telling the story in bits and pieces. Sometimes, these fragments make sense, but for others, I have no idea where the fragments come from. It sounds exciting and a blast but isn’t the best part.

Editing is the best part. Once she reads this, my editor will tap into her editor’s magic and send thousands of those dreaded red marks to ensure my happiness. It will bring her joy as I scream in frustration and try to unravel the madness these red marks always bring. I can see her now. Her eyebrow raised, peering over her glasses, muttering something like the following …

“Really?” she says, looking at me bewildered. Which frightens me a bit because she doesn’t do bewilderment.

I look at her with all the confidence I can muster, hoping she buys it. I respond, “Yep!”

She holds my gaze, clearly not buying it. She picks up my latest draft and begins doing her thing. The once-white paper is now red with the faintest glimmers of white remaining. She tosses the draft on the table beside me, smirking, “Have fun!”

“What the f…” I reply

She chuckles harder, “Teaspoon.”

Of course, I don’t find the situation humorous at all. However, I begin the process. I clear the mechanism of doubt and start the next part of the journey.

Editing is the portion where, as writers, we shape our creation into something unexpected and unintended. If we are lucky, we allow it to grow into something magical. So many times, I’ve written things telling one story, but by the time I’m finished editing, it has become something else. Because of this, I’ve been able to reuse concepts to establish foundations or fill in gaps as needed.

There’s something about finding another storyline within a sentence or paragraph or scribbling a note on a napkin. So, excuse me as I prepare to get my butt kicked.

Just Breathe

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Daily writing prompt
Do you have a favorite place you have visited? Where is it?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

If you were to ask my late wife this question, she would respond that my favorite place to visit was my house. I was never home. It didn’t matter what country we lived in; it seemed like I dropped off her and the kids and then left. In many ways, she would be wrong. Often, I wonder how I didn’t end up a member of statistics concerning service members and the divorce rate. Military life isn’t for everyone. I’ve seen it break some of the nicest people. I watched them become caught in the churn of military life and drown in a slow, miserable death. Both service members and their families. I suppose I was lucky to a degree.

I don’t have a favorite place, per se; I have more like a region I enjoy spending time in, the Pacific Northwest. I have hundreds of stories about my travels in that area, but none accurately convey my feelings about traveling on Highway 101. I’ve traveled up and down that highway more than I could count. Once you start traveling north on that highway, the world changes. Northern California is completely different than Southern California. Once you cross the border into Oregon, the world changes. This magic repeats itself as you enter Washington.

I also enjoy the time I spent traveling through Montana, Wyoming, and even Idaho. The scenery is breathtaking. All one has to do to feel better is just breathe

I Remember When This Stuff Mattered

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Daily writing prompt
Share five things you’re good at.
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I remember being at an age when I took stock of my skills and abilities and wondered if these things defined the person I was supposed to become. Over the years, I have realized that titles, lists, or attributes aren’t what shape you. Our strengths and weaknesses change over time. Things we were good at when we were young may seem impossible to accomplish now. We may not even figure out how we did them in the first place. As we age, new abilities surface we never knew we possessed. Hopefully, we have gained wisdom along with experiences in life. We do the best we can with what we have to work with.

I sit smiling, remembering when this stuff mattered.

Something like this…

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What does your ideal home look like?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

My Personal Library

Not exactly, but something like this since we dreaming and all

Khan’s Records & Tapes

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What alternative career paths have you considered or are interested in?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I’m satisfied with the career path I chose. Could I have done something different? Definitely! However, the goal was to provide for my family, and I did that. So, in this regard, I’m good. I have always wanted to write, and I’m a writer. I wanted to make a difference or do something that mattered. I was a soldier. The best job ever is being a parent. It doesn’t get any better than that for me.

I’ve retired young, so I could return to work once my health improves if I want. The question is, what would I do? It would be something I enjoy, something that brings joy and meaning to my life and others.

I could play Watermelon Man or Blinded by the Light and get a second. It would be expected, even appreciated.

Here’s a sample of the stuff that would be playing over the loudspeakers …

I’m a Night Owl … by G-d

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Daily writing prompt
Are you more of a night or morning person?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I used to have a bedtime that I fought tooth and nail. I couldn’t wait until I became an adult to do what I wanted. You know, to stay up until the roosters crow and all that. Then, I got a job where four hours of sleep was a luxury. I spent most of my time working through the night. I’d pass out when the dawn came. Things seemed to be quieter in the daytime. Well, at least until after morning coffee. I’ve been wired that way for so long that it’s hard to be any other way.

Now that I’m older, I enjoy the stillness of the night. It is so peaceful and quiet. I can get a lot done during this time.

Honesty and integrity

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What principles define how you live?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I spent most of my developing a simple code to live by. Though there are several aspects and layers concerning the code I developed, it boils down to these two variables. I live by two main principles; honesty and Integrity. It’s just that simple.

Reading That Shaped My World

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List three books that have had an impact on you. Why?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

  • The Green Mile – To be haunted by the actions of your past. To see everything you know and love die. To be left on this earth and witness their demise. One realizes the dead were the lucky ones. To feel the blessing of a long life is a curse. Perhaps, a punishment for a hideous act.
  • Invisible Man – In this novel, we follow the actions of an unnamed protagonist living in a society that chooses not to recognize him as a man. The winner of the National Book Award in 1953, this novel should depict an outdated social construct, but it doesn’t, sadly.
  • 11/22/63 – This book addresses something we all may have wanted to do from time to time. A chance to go back in time and change something we have done. However, the most powerful part for me, was how it laid out the hazards of time travel. I will continue working on the time machine in my basement.

You’re Kidding, right?

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Do you trust your instincts?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

If you can’t trust yourself, who can you trust? This is the question that comes to mind when I read this prompt. With the social climate of the last few decades, many have made fortunes in the “Doubt” business. I talked to one of these individuals once, and when I questioned their motives, I quickly became a nonbeliever and radiated large amounts of negative energy. I looked around to see if they had some device that measured energy levels. I was asked to leave when I asked them to present this device. I’m still sad about the event, not at all.

My intuition has saved my butt more times than I can count. So, I trust it. However, I must admit there have been times it has stirred me wrong, mainly partly due to my lack of knowledge of the situation. The other part was the person in charge of the situation seemed shady. I don’t do shady people, as a general rule. However, sometimes they can be rather useful. In cases like these, I adjust the settings on my shade – meter. Overexposure can be harmful, and it takes a while to recover from its effects.

Believing in yourself or trusting yourself are useful tools in building self-reliance, developing personal growth, and strengthening one’s emotional intelligence. I’ve heard people mock the use of gut feelings and demand the use of actual data or science. This is funny because when people use their gut feelings, they combine their knowledge, experiences, and science. Yep, I said science. The issue resides in people’s inability to articulate why they feel a particular way. So, continue trusting your instincts.

Let me provide an example; my editor can read something of mine and say something like this.

“I don’t like it. Don’t ask me why, but there’s something not right.”

When we first started working together, this was some frustrating shit. However, I’ve learned to keep my mouth shut and listen over the years. More times than not, there’s, sure enough, something jacked in my draft.

Smart people say gut feelings are like using a muscle; the more you use it, the stronger it becomes. They recommend continuing to gain knowledge and experience and living life. So, believe and trust yourself; you may very be justified in having pause. So, when someone asks me whether or not I trust my gut. My response is always:

“You’re Kidding, Right?”

My Virtual Zoo

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Daily writing prompt
What are your favorite animals?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I’ve loved animals all my life and had some wonderful times with them, as well as a few close calls with them. Now that I’m older, the type of animals I enjoy is small, but not as small as I would like. Still, I find myself fascinated by their power, grace, and awesomeness.

Here is some of the artwork of my favorites:

The Coffee List

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Daily writing prompt
If you could meet a historical figure, who would it be and why?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

When I was younger, I made two lists. One was famous people I would have a conversation with over a cup of coffee. The other list of historical people that I thought needed to be throat punched. Now, my wife wasn’t a fan of either list. In fact, every time she caught me making an entry, she gave me something to do. Sighs, the misplaced passion of youth. Where would we be without it?

As a track & field athlete, this photo meant a great deal to me.

The establishment of my era still turned their noses up each time they saw this photo. This photo and others were considered taboo, or if I use the phrase I heard the most, they were “troublemakers.” Martin Luther King, Jesus, or “The Last Supper” in most of my friends’ homes. However, I spent most of my time reading about people who stood against injustice. This was the beginning of the coffee list.

Recently, I had the pleasure of rehashing the glory days with some old friends. The above came up. We all were athletes, and it was important to us. However, I didn’t care much for it, but I understood its significance in the movement. We discussed the civil rights movement at length that day, even though none of us were alive to participate during critical periods. We talked about what we were doing to fulfill MLK’s dream. We questioned whether how our sacrifices would benefit our children and grandchildren. As you can imagine, this was a very long conversation and was getting heavier by the second. So, I decided to lighten the mood.

I held up my phone with the above photo and asked, “Who’s the white guy?” None of us knew, but of course, we had the guy that sputters

“Oh man, I can’t remember his name…Damn!”

We have two of these individuals in our group, and they take turns uttering that phrase. Once, I wanted to see which one said it the most. After several months of observing, it was a tie, and I figured the game was rigged just to skew my data. Yes, I’m the guy who always gathers data.

Well, the gentleman’s name was Peter Norman. Here are a few facts about him.

Peter George Norman was an Australian track athlete born in Melbourne, Australia, on June 15, 1942. He grew up in a devout Salvation Army family and worked as an apprentice butcher before becoming a physical education teacher.

Norman’s athletic career began when he joined the Melbourne Harriers, and he won his first major title, the Victoria junior 200m championship, in 1960. He excelled in sprinting, becoming a five-time national 200-meter champion and representing Australia at the 1966 Commonwealth Games in Jamaica, where he won bronze medals in the 220-yard and 4×110-yard relay.

The defining moment of Norman’s career came at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. In the 200-metre final, he stunned everyone by claiming the silver medal with a personal best time of 20.06 seconds, setting an Oceanic record that still stands today. However, the events that followed on the medal podium would forever change Norman’s life and cement his place in history.

As Norman stood on the podium alongside gold medalist Tommie Smith and bronze medalist John Carlos, the two American athletes raised their black-gloved fists in a Black Power salute while playing the U.S. national anthem. This powerful gesture was intended to highlight systemic segregation and racism in the United States. Though not raising his fist, Norman chose to stand in solidarity with Smith and Carlos by wearing an Olympic Project for Human Rights badge on his jacket.

Norman’s decision to support the protest was not without consequences. Upon returning to Australia, he faced unofficial sanctions and was ridiculed as the “forgotten man” of the Black Power salute. Despite qualifying for the 1972 Munich Olympics, Norman was not selected to represent Australia and never competed in the Olympics again.

Throughout his life, Norman remained committed to his beliefs in human rights and never regretted his actions on the podium. He continued to be involved in athletics administration and Olympic fundraising and even worked on organizing the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

Norman passed away on October 3, 2006, at the age of 64, due to a heart attack. In a poignant tribute, Smith and Carlos served as pallbearers at his funeral.

In the years following his death, Norman’s role in the historic protest has gained increased recognition. In 2012, the Australian Parliament formally apologized for the treatment he received after the 1968 Olympics. In 2019, a statue of Norman was unveiled in Albert Park, Melbourne, honoring his athletic achievements and his stand for human rights.

Peter Norman’s legacy extends far beyond his athletic accomplishments. His courageous decision to stand in solidarity with Smith and Carlos during a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement demonstrates the power of allyship and the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs, even in the face of adversity. Norman’s story serves as a reminder that sometimes, the most significant acts of bravery occur not in the spotlight but in quiet moments of support and solidarity.

After reading articles about Mr. Norman, I wondered how I missed him. Better yet, why was his namen’t mentioned like everyone else’s? At any rate, Peter Norman makes The Coffee List.

The Outer Office

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Daily writing prompt
What is your favorite place to go in your city?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

My favorite spot in my city is the park. It serves as my outer office. I’ve worked on countless stories and come up with just as many ideas. I sit and watch the things that happen in the park. Some days, I break out my camera and take pictures of the things around me. Some of these photos aren’t of anything special, but for some reason, they evoke a thought or conjure an idea. On other days, I sit and allow nature to cleanse my soul. A reboot, if you will. There are numerous parks in my area. All of them offer something different. So, I never run out of inspiration.

Mama’s Boy

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Daily writing prompt
What’s the first impression you want to give people?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

As a young man, I had this insane desire to be liked. I wanted to be considered cool and all that. Then, one day, something peculiar happened. I stopped giving a s**t about what people thought of me and focused on becoming the person I was destined to be. Of course, I didn’t have any philosophical phrasing back then, but the sentiment and emotion driving it remain true. However, despite my severe lack of interest in what others thought of me, something kept me in line. I needed to be a son my Mom could be proud of. I never wanted to let her down. She made far too many sacrifices to be a disappointment to her. So, most of the decisions I have made in life. I keep in mind what my mom would say about this. Make no mistake, I’m my own man; Mom raised me that way. But I use her example as a guide.

My Favorite Pastime

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Daily writing prompt
What book are you reading right now?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I always read several books at once. I’ve never been able to keep my focus on one book for any length of time. To help with this, I usually do some research on a particular subject to give my mind a rest. As I research, I usually read several books on the subject I’m studying. Despite this, I still have trouble slowing my mind down enough to enjoy a single. On the rare this occurs, I typically read the book a second time as a writer to see what the writer did to capture my attention.

Here is my current reading list for pleasure:

  1. Duma Key by Stephen King – I’m a sucker for magical realism
  2. Inferno by Dan Brown – I enjoy a bit of historical fiction wrapped in conspiracy from time to time.
  3. Strega by Andrew Vachss – No one does gritty crime fiction better than Vachss. James Ellroy comes close, but not entirely.

Home on the Range

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Daily writing prompt
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

The last time, I answered this question, I think I went on about the places I wouldn’t live for one reason or another. However, this year I figured I would take the time to figure out the places I would like to visit now that I’m retired.

First, I would like to go to France, for a about a month visiting all the places some of my favorite writers lived or frequented. Also, I would like to find my own spot there I could regularly or at least once a year. Secondly, I love to spend some time in the Pacific Northwest. I spent some time out there earlier in my life and loved it.

Rabbit’s Foot – Are they really lucky?

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Daily writing prompt
What’s the coolest thing you’ve ever found (and kept)?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

My Mom had transferred me to a new school. Not only was I the new kid, but I was also the only Black kid, so things were immediately interesting. The world wasn’t as inclusive then as it is now. Despite these challenges, I made a friend. Most of the children were polite, but this guy was my friend for a while. We’d play after school, shooting baskets, skipping rocks, etc. Well, one day, we found a rabbit’s foot. It was exciting and all that, but I quickly forgot about it.

A few years ago, one of the girls from that school reached out on one of the socials. Once she discovered me, she broadcast to the rest of the class. So, my friend contacted me. He sent me a picture of that same rabbit’s foot we found over 40 years old. That picture officially made that rabbit’s foot cool. This story may not be the coolest thing I have found, but it makes me smile every time I think about it. Our lives are made up of tiny moments like these, and we should cherish them.

Walk, Don’t walk

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Daily writing prompt
What is your favorite form of physical exercise?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I grew up during a time when parents seemed to be allergic to giving their children rides anywhere. Our main modes of transportation were riding your bike, public transportation, and the infamous walking. Walking wasn’t a form of exercise in those days it was a necessity. So, we, got a good laugh when the trend “Power Walking” emerged. It went right along with Jazzercise, step – something, and who could forget Tae-Bo. Here’s an example of power walking from the famous, but hilarious film, Doctor Detroit (1983).

I was a track athlete in those and remember walking home from practice or walking to just about everything I wanted to do. Portable cassette players had emerged so we would listen to our favorite while numerous treks. And wouldn’t you know once I joined the military, we something called road marches, so my walking days were far from over.

What I have always enjoyed about walking to provides me chance to clear my head without over exerting myself like when running. Running there was a target heart rate, distance, and time goals set. With walking it was just walking. I still enjoy walking today. I never was a fast walker, unless I was road marching where we would 12 miles in a few hours. I enjoy leisurely walk that I vary speeds and tempo.

Here are a few of favorite songs about walking.

I’ve always liked the groove of this Nancy Sinatra classic. Every time I listen to it, I rock back and forth.

However, my all-time favorite song about walking is by Prince & the NPG. Here that track …

Everything … most things

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Daily writing prompt
What is good about having a pet?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I can’t imagine life without some sort of pet. I didn’t always have them, but once I got one, I was hooked. Now, I’m unlike some other pet owners I know. I’m talking about the ones who buy strollers and cute sweaters. There is no judgment here. I’ve also been known to spoil my pets, but my spoiling consists of ridiculous amounts of food that is most likely not very healthy.

I’ve been primarily a dog owner for most of my life, but it’s been all about the cats lately. As a cat dad, I have never had a pet before. Like dogs, they each have their own personality, and getting to know them is a treat. I’ve found that some cats act like dogs and follow you around as you walk through the house while they look at you crazy. I enjoy watching them sit and talk smack to me, like I speak cat or something. My first hid somewhere in the house for two weeks, until one day, she decided to jump on my lap without any warning.

She crossed the “Rainbow Bridge” a few months back, and it was severely difficult to deal with. I lost two cats that week, and I thought I wouldn’t be able to have another pet. I remember this pain from the first I lost one of my Rotties. I didn’t think I would be affected, but I was wrong. Soph and Ajna were rescues. Soph’s original mom passed, and Ajna’s mom couldn’t keep her anymore. So they didn’t get along, but they kept it civil. I think it was primarily for my benefit, and I thank them.

I have a new fuzzball named Guppy. She is another rescue, but she is completely different from others. She sleeps on one of my printers and talks smacks on the regular. It cracks me up. I was supposed to have rescued them, but in truth, they rescued me. So, I think everything is awesome about having a pet, but when they cross the “Rainbow Bridge, ” that blows!

Podcasts aren’t my thang

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Daily writing prompt
What podcasts are you listening to?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Listening to podcasts, really isn’t my thang. I suppose I missed the movement. However, I have spent a considerable amount of time on internet radio. I was even a host for a number of years. I unsure if internet radio has been rebranded to podcasts, if so, cool, if not okay. I have listened to a few but are mainly podcasts done by people I interact with either in person or here on WordPress. When I have listened to podcasts they deal with following subjects.

  1. Writing
  2. Music
  3. Film

I have noticed that are a few podcasts dealing with AI and other technology subjects that look interesting. I realize that a bit old fashioned on how I absorb information, but its worked for several decades. I’m not above making changes, it just takes a bit to warm up to the idea. I get my history, philosophy, and psychology fixes from books and articles. In the last decade or so, I’ve developed a liking for audiobooks. They provide the ability to move around while my brain is still being stimulated.

Believing in Myself

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What have you been putting off doing? Why?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Somewhere along the way, I forgot how to do it. It’s strange actually. I can’t recall the precise moment when it happened. It’s like it stolen in the night by some silent rogue. Perhaps, I was victim of an assassin. Not the way we usually view, but the way that makes you experience the thing worse than death. It funny because that fate is different for everyone.

One would think that now I realize what has happened it would be easily reobtained. For me, this doesn’t seem to be the case. It’s like it been put into my special hiding place. The place where I put the things I want to keep safe. I stand at the door looking the room where it should be, but I can’t remember where it is in that room.

I know with patience I discover all the things within this room. It’s secrets, its treasures, and it’s grace by believing in myself.

Small Scene Addiction

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Daily writing prompt
How do you manage screen time for yourself?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Several years ago, I posted the following somewhere on one of my socials.

“Curb your addiction; Netflix is not a lifestyle.”

I said this because, at the time, Netflix was the hottest new thing. I believe we should read and spend with our families instead of having faces glued to a screen. It remains my opinion on the matter. However, the current trends and versatility of mobile devices aren’t lost on me. I read the other day and posted on this blog every day for over six months. Looking back at that period, I realize it was done using one of my mobile devices.

My preferences are my desktop for any major creative endeavor, such as video or photo editing, and my laptop when I’m writing fiction. One can’t go anywhere without observing someone lost on their screens. I suppose it is the way of the world, as they say. However, I was amazed when I discovered that someone studied this behavior and named it. It’s called Small Screen Addiction.

Here are the particulars:

Understanding Small Screen Addiction

Overview of the Issue:

Small screen addiction, often referred to as screen dependency disorder, is a growing concern among children and adolescents. This phenomenon encompasses excessive use of devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, leading to compulsive behaviors that can negatively impact mental and physical health. As technology becomes increasingly integrated into daily life, understanding the implications of screen addiction is crucial for parents, educators, and health professionals.

Extent of Screen Addiction:

Research indicates that a significant number of young people exhibit signs of screen addiction. A 2021 survey by Common Sense Media revealed that 75% of teenagers felt compelled to respond immediately to notifications, while another study found that teens checked their smartphones a median of 51 times per day. Symptoms of screen addiction include preoccupation with screens, withdrawal symptoms when not using devices, and a loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed. The American Academy of Pediatrics has raised alarms about the detrimental effects of excessive screen time on children’s development and well-being.

Mental and Physical Health Consequences:

The consequences of small screen addiction are multifaceted. Physically, children may experience issues such as insomnia, back pain, vision problems, and headaches due to prolonged screen exposure. Psychologically, increased screen time is linked to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Studies have shown that children who spend excessive time gaming or on social media are at greater risk for mental health issues. Furthermore, the addictive nature of screens can disrupt normal brain development in children, affecting areas responsible for impulse control and empathy.

Behavioral Indicators:

Parents and guardians should be vigilant for signs that may indicate a child is struggling with screen addiction. Key indicators include:

  • Preoccupation with screens: Constantly thinking about or planning to use devices.
  • Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing irritability or anxiety when unable to access screens.
  • Loss of interest in other activities: Neglecting hobbies or interests that do not involve screens.
  • Aggressive behavior: Increased irritability or aggression when screen time is limited.

Strategies for MitigationTo combat small screen addiction, experts recommend several strategies:

  • Establish Screen Time Limits: Setting clear boundaries on daily screen usage can help manage exposure.
  • Encourage Alternative Activities: Promoting physical activities or hobbies that do not involve screens can foster healthier habits.
  • Model Healthy Behavior: Parents should demonstrate balanced screen use to set a positive example for children.
  • Utilize Technology Mindfully: Encourage mindful engagement with technology using apps that track usage and promote breaks.

When reading this information, I was taken back primarily by the initial data focusing on the small-scene addiction effect on children. It makes me want to visit all the grandchildren and snatch their phones away. “Gave a damn book!” I see myself yelling in my rant. Of course, my grandchildren would look at me and wonder what Peepaw was going on as they glanced up from their screens. I’d have no hope of assistance from my children because they would wonder about the recipe, outfit, and lifestyle of a person they haven’t a clue about.

However, this got me wondering about the effects of small-screen addiction in adults. Here’s what I found.

Physical Health Effects

Eye Strain and Vision Problems

  • Prolonged screen use can cause digital eye strain, leading to symptoms like dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches.
  • Excessive screen time may increase the risk of myopia (nearsightedness).

Musculoskeletal Issues

  • Poor posture from prolonged screen use can result in neck, shoulder, and back pain.
  • Repetitive motions can lead to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.

Sleep Disruption

  • Blue light emitted by screens can interfere with melatonin production, disrupting natural sleep cycles.
  • This can lead to insomnia and poor sleep quality.

Sedentary Lifestyle

  • Excessive screen time often correlates with reduced physical activity, potentially contributing to obesity and related health issues.

Mental Health Effects

Anxiety and Depression

  • Studies have shown a link between excessive screen time and increased risks of anxiety and depression in adults.

Cognitive Changes

  • Screen addiction can lead to structural changes in the brain, particularly in the frontal lobe, affecting attention span, decision-making, and emotional control.

Social Isolation

  • Excessive screen use can lead to withdrawal from real-world social interactions, potentially causing feelings of loneliness and social isolation.

Stress and Mood Disturbances

  • Constant connectivity and information overload can increase stress levels.
  • Compulsive checking of devices can lead to mood swings and irritability.

Reduced Productivity

  • Screen addiction can interfere with work performance and daily responsibilities.

Attention and Focus Issues

  • Frequent multitasking across devices can lead to difficulty maintaining focus and reduced cognitive control.

Other Effects

Dopamine Feedback Loop

  • Screen use can activate the brain’s dopamine reward system, creating addictive patterns similar to substance addictions.

Altered Brain Chemistry

  • Prolonged screen addiction can potentially alter brain chemistry and structure, affecting areas responsible for cognitive control and emotional regulation.

Well damn! This is the only thing I could say after reading this data. Excuse me while I charge my phone and iPad and process this data.

If You Have Enough Time? … You do!

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Daily writing prompt
Do you need time?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I read this question and wondered what they meant. I’ve said it a thousand times if I’ve said it once.

“I don’t have time”

or

“I need more time.”

In the military, we have said, “We train to standard, not to time.”. One of those really cool sayings doesn’t always apply. However, as I progressed in ranks, I realized that prior planning or proper planning removes most of the anxiety associated with time constraints. We used a system called After Action Reviews (AAR’s) and later became lessons learned. We would evaluate an exercise and make note of things that went well as well as our failures.

The purpose of this action was to devise a plan to achieve a greater degree of success. Ideally, this plan was placed in a binder for review at a later date. The binder also served as a guide in case of a personnel change. The problem with every system isn’t the system itself, although that is sometimes the case. Rather, the lack of personnel utilizing the system results in the utterance of the above-listed questions.

Now, I won’t sit here and say there weren’t instances where we needed to make adjustments on the fly—there were plenty. However, the majority of the situations when we felt a time crunch were due to a lack of planning or learning from previous mistakes. I have developed an expansion of this philosophy as I have aged.

We have the same amount of time today as yesterday and tomorrow. The first time I said this idea about time to someone, I was told that Daylight Saving Time defeats my logic. I laugh because I feel it isn’t true. The key to successful time management is how we utilize the time we have, which is a constant. So, whatever system or techniques you may use, don’t worry about if you have enough time because you do.

Why would I want to do that?

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Is there an age or year of your life you would re-live?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Fortunately, I’ve reached the age where the heyday has become a part of the conversation. However, with that age, I also have times when talking to the family and other younger people when I have no idea what the hell they are talking about. especially when they tell you a phrase you have been using before they were born, “Doesn’t mean what you think it means,” as if history has been erased. But, to be fair, I often say things where they are completely clueless. One of my last co-workers used to shake, smile, and shake her head like she understood. I confronted her about it after she didn’t do what I asked. Her response, “I’m not going lie, I heard words, but didn’t know what the hell you were talking about.”

Sure, I can remember some amazing moments and horrific ones. These moments shape us into the people we are. So, when it comes to reliving stuff, why would I want to do that?

Why Can’t you Answer Questions like a Normal Person?

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Daily writing prompt
Who are your favorite artists?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Answering this question correctly depends on the definition of artist. Like many Jetpak questions, it fails to be specific. It’s almost like they have a dumb ass question generator or something. However, I like this question well enough to answer with minimal disdain. To do so, I need to provide myself a definition.

noun

  1. a person who produces paintings or drawings as a profession or hobby.
    • Similar: creator originator, designer producer, old master
    • A person who practices any of the various creative arts, such as a sculptor, novelist, poet, or filmmaker.
      • Similar: entertainer performer, trouper, showman, player,
    • a person skilled at a particular task or occupation: “a surgeon who is an artist with the scalpel.”
      • Similar: expert, master, maestro, past master, adept
    • performer, such as a singer, actor, or dancer.
    • informal
      • a habitual practitioner of a specified reprehensible activity: “a con artist” · “rip-off artist.”

As you may have guessed, I’m in a bit of a mood today, but now I have something to base my answer on. So here goes.

As a writer, my first thoughts about the creative arts are about works of literature. However, this presents an issue for me. I can rattle on for days about different works of literature and their importance without breaking a sweat. But, for the purposes of this post I will discuss some of my favorites.

Novels

  1. Ralph Ellison
  2. Gordon Weaver
  3. Stephen King

Poetry

  1. Dante Alighieri
  2. Langston Hughes
  3. Adrienne Rich

Painting and such

  1. Francisco Goya
  2. Sandro Botticelli
  3. Jean-Michel Basquiat

Photography

  1. Gordon Parks
  2. Annie Lieberwitz
  3. Vivian Maier

Comic and such

  1. Luis Royo
  2. Tim Bradstreet
  3. Al Jaffee

Here is the short list off the top of my head. Looking back over this post, I chuckle a bit because I remember my wife asking me a question after I had answered her questions. Why can’t you answer a question like a normal question?

Don’t Be that Guy

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Daily writing prompt
What personality trait in people raises a red flag with you?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I’ve been told I’m a difficult person. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and I respect it. However, when it comes to personality traits that are red flags, it depends on the person and the situation. With that, I usually have the following philosophy. Sometimes, they do things that just irk me, and I don’t do irksome. So be genuine. Don’t fake it until you make it. Just be yourself. I can handle everything else. Posers are irksome. Yeah, don’t be that guy!

A Matter of Interpretation

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When you think of the word “successful,” who’s the first person that comes to mind and why?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

“Successful” can have different meanings depending on the context, but broadly speaking, being successful refers to achieving goals or desired outcomes. Here are some ways success can be defined in different areas:

  1. Personal Success: Achieving personal goals, happiness, fulfillment, or growth. It might involve self-improvement, achieving work-life balance, or cultivating meaningful relationships.
  2. Professional Success: Accomplishing career objectives, such as gaining promotions, excelling in one’s field, building a reputable business, or making significant contributions to a profession.
  3. Financial Success: Attaining financial stability, wealth, or independence, defined by income level, savings, investments, or the ability to support a particular lifestyle.
  4. Creative Success: For artists, writers, and creators, success might involve producing meaningful work, gaining recognition, influencing others, or feeling satisfied with creative expression.
  5. Social Success: This could be defined by having strong relationships, a positive social impact, or being recognized for contributions to a community..

As an administrator, I can provide several definitions of success, as well as examples, plans, and whatever is necessary for a deeper understanding of the meaning of success. However, despite temptation, we must try not to push one’s personal definition on the others around us. I say to myself more than anyone else. As I have gotten older, I’ve learned to appreciate that measuring success is a matter of interpretation.

Things aren’t like they used to be …

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Daily writing prompt
What brands do you associate with?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

A year ago, I could name brands I use regularly without hesitation. I’ve been using them for most of my life. However, I’ve noticed recently that the brands we used to think were solid have fallen to the wayside. Increasingly, I’ve become more disappointed with the products offered by the brands I’m used to using. My brothers and I, on several occasions, went with a less expensive option instead of using the brands we’ve used most of our lives. I can point to two reasons for this shift.

First, quality and price point: It makes no sense to pay top dollar for an inferior product. In several cases, our work has a no-skimping motto.

“You can’t put a price on quality!” This is very true in some cases, but it’s becoming hollow words found in old books.

This statement rings in my head whenever I look for a replacement or an addition for the shop or the lab. As a writer, I find it necessary to replace equipment as much as some other industries. In my opinion, as long as you can open a word processor program, the keyboard works, and you have a decent laser printer, you’re golden. As a visual artist, things become complicated rather quickly.

Processing video, editing photos, or creating composition art can be done on older machines, but the necessity of a “Dammit Doll” becomes apparent. A “Dammit Doll” is a stuffed doll that comes in various forms whose purpose is to bang it against something (your choice) while screaming dammit. My Irish twin bought me one a few years back, and I might need to give her a call to get a new one. Every year, she gives me a new device to relieve my stress; perhaps she’s trying to tell me something.

The point of this is I needed to replace my external drives. I had to consider different manufacturers because the brands I have been using for decades are crap. So, I found less expensive options. They’re designed for something else but will do nicely for video, photo, and writing draft storage. With the money I saved, I was able to purchase two. I had enough left for a guilty pleasure. It’s always nice to buy a guilty pleasure from time to time.

Products aren’t made like they used to be, too, though brand loyalty has beaten into our heads. Be open-minded and select the best product to fit your needs. Here are a few things I use. Perhaps they will help.

  • Determine your need—This is the most crucial step of the process. You can’t establish a budget or begin researching products without knowing exactly what you need. It makes no sense to buy something that doesn’t fulfill your needs just because its price fits your budget. “I can get by with this,” or “This is just as good.” Yeah, I hear you. Been there several times. Here’s what I have to say about it … Cut that shit out!
  • Establish a budget—I have a budget in mind before I purchase anything. However, I can’t do this without determining my needs. By determining my needs, I know how much money I need to raise. I try to never go over my budget. However, sometimes, when you start researching a product, you find it is more expensive than you initially thought. It may change based on your needs. Be flexible.
  • Do your research – With information readily available, there is no longer an excuse for not being an informed consumer. Read the product reviews from other consumers, and be careful; there is much misinformation out there. Also, there are videos on YouTube about products that can be useful. Many manufacturers provide user manuals on their websites. You read about the product before purchasing anything.

Until next time …Peace

Reading is Fun

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Daily writing prompt
What is your favorite hobby or pastime?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Reading is part of the job as a writer. However, I must admit that some of my reading has nothing to do with writing. It’s just for fun. I love discovering the magical lands within the pages, regardless of genre. There are two sides to every story.

I’m Richer than I’ve Ever Been

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Daily writing prompt
What would you do if you lost all your possessions?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

This question reminds me of times when I was a youngster. I remember those horrible confrontations about stealing something; you have no idea what the other person was talking about. That special toy or prized possession has mysteriously vanished, and the only logical explanation is that you stole it. It doesn’t matter how much you profess your innocence; the injured party is convinced. Friendships are destroyed over something that may have cost less than five dollars. The battle between them is bad enough, but when the parents got involved, the issue seemed to be about something other than the vanished item.

I wish this scenario I described was limited to childhood, but sadly, it isn’t. I’ve seen longtime friends destroyed over something like this. I’ve seen people beaten over the loss of possessions. The strangest thing is that most of the time, vanished items either turn up or are taken by someone other than the accused. However, the damage has already been done. Some relationships recover, but they never were like they were before. That’s true, the actual loss… the friendship.

I’ve learned this concept through my own loss. I’ve lost all my possessions several times over the years. Some items aren’t replaceable. I can say honestly that losing some of these items was very painful. I remember a friend was Native American, he carried a leather pouch filled with pebbles. There wasn’t anything special about those pebbles that I could see. However, one day, I asked him about it. I was curious. Other friends told me to mine my own business. So, I dropped it.

At the time, I carried something from each of my children in a zip-lock bag. During the quiet moments, I would pull them out, look at them, and remember what I was fighting for; every mile I walked, every sleepless night, and the duties performed for God and Country so my family could have a better life. I believed that. It’s what held me together. I did this privately. One of those moments, my friend came and sat next to them. He was quiet for a long time. We just sat in the peace of the moment.

After a while, he pulled his pouch from his hip and began to tell me about it. He said each pebble contained a memory of an event that happened in his life. I listened with a perplexed expression. He smiled and said, “Dick Tracy”. I was holding a Dick Tracy trading card in my hand. My youngest daughter had given it to me before deployment. Then I got it.

Throughout my studies, I have learned a great deal about spirituality. I came across this passage some time ago, and it is relevant to this prompt:

Ibrahim Adham said, “Faith in God will be firmly established if three veils are cast aside:

  1. “Feeling pleasure in possessing anything;
  2. “Lamenting over the loss of anything;
  3. “Enjoying self-praise.”


al-Ghazzali

Fadiman, James. Essential Sufism (p. 173). HarperCollins. Kindle Edition.

Living up to this philosophy is very difficult. I struggle with it constantly. However, I still maintain the possessions that mean the most to me. These are the relationships I have developed over the years. Most material things can be replaced. Each person we interact with is unique, and our relationships with them are also exceptional. As I’ve said, I have had to rebuild several times. It’s hard work and not fun, but it can be done if you’re still breathing. Because life is our most important possession. The relationships you develop within that lifetime can be the difference between living and existing. Because of this, I’m richer than I’ve ever been.

Nothing Better to Do

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Daily writing prompt
What skill would you like to learn?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Now that I’m retired, there is so much to do. I find myself making up shit to do. However, recently, I decided to put my free time to better use. While convalescing, I explored different ways to explore my creative outlets. Many of you probably noticed I’ve been posting AI images. I learned digital art skills. However, my education isn’t complete. I’d like to learn more about the digital world. I’ve spent years existing within it. I thought I knew how it worked, but it has changed. My grandchildren have taught me.

“Peepaw, you aren’t current with stuff.”

I’ve gone from being the in-house IT guy to the guy who tells them stories about his precious memories of them when they were young. So, I need to update my skills to figure out what they are talking about half the time. I’ve got nothing better to do.

Work Hard and Live Right

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Daily writing prompt
In what ways does hard work make you feel fulfilled?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I’ve lived by a simple code not my own. Despite this truth, this code has served me well. Provided me a strength to develop my own. My parents worked hard their whole lives. Somehow, they didn’t seem to be tainted by this devotion. I’ve seen many succumb to the strain. If I’m honest, it’s easier than I’d like it to be. I’ve been choked by the tentacles of temptation from time to time.

Many of the elders, worked their whole lives to accomplish their individual goals. Each family having their own. I watched them in amazement. I wondered if they would make it. As I got older, I asked how they stayed focused and not lose hope.

“You focused on wrong thing. You can’t worry about that. All you can do is work hard and live right.”

This was code I subscribed to. The code based my entire life on. My personal code isn’t much different than the one I grew up with. The elder who taught me his code, hadn’t lived the life I have. I’ve had too make some adjustments over time. However, I always feel good if I work hard and live right.

A lot of things

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Daily writing prompt
What details of your life could you pay more attention to?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

For the past few months, I have been looking over how I handle things, and they totally screwed up. What upsets me is that they have broken for quite some time. Things that should not have broken in the first place. First, I must acknowledge that despite my best efforts, I am still just human. I used to think I was a cybernetic being, but then I went through the part-dragon phase. Alas, I’m just human. The last year’s health issues taught me that lesson tenfold.

I’ve never felt weakness like this before. It’s hard to wrap my head around it. Being in this state blows, to say the least. There were times when I wasn’t sure how things would turn out. I had to rely on the strength of my brothers as well as my own. I’m not used to this, but my people reminded me that my fight isn’t over. I will do well to pay more attention to that.

Quality vs. Quantity

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Daily writing prompt
What are your thoughts on the concept of living a very long life?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I never expected to live a long life. However, I’ve lived longer than I ever expected. SHOCKER! Yet, I’ve learned a few things along the way. In the time I’ve spent on this earth, I’ve learned that in almost every aspect of life, the quality of how life is spent is more important than the amount of time spent. I’ve been blessed to have talked to several elders, and they mainly agree that its the quality of life, not its longevity. I tend to agree.

That was a close one…

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Daily writing prompt
Write about your most epic baking or cooking fail.
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Once upon a time, in a country other than my own, a few of us decided we were going to cook an American Thanksgiving dinner. There were six of us, four men and two women. I must admit the women tried to talk us out of this idea of ours but weren’t hearing any of that nonsense. All six of us were experts in several fields. How hard could preparing a meal be? The women quickly declared they wouldn’t have anything to do with the pending disaster. Intelligent women, I always liked them.

We started cooking a few days before Thanksgiving, and things seemed to be going well. We knocked out almost all the side dishes and started on the desserts. However, a few things occurred that started to make me nervous. We had begun improvising when we ran out of spices and stuff. However, we forged forward. In the back of my mind, I secretly hoped our female counterparts would ride in and save the day. However, they were a no-show.

The meal was complete, and the phone calls were made for people to join us. No one showed. I know this seems sad but this was, actually a good thing. The food was horrible. We were just about order pizzas when the doorbell rang. Our female counterparts had made dinner for us. That was a close one.

My Happy Place

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Daily writing prompt
How do you relax?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I’m not sure if I know what the word really means. I know the definition and how it’s used, but I haven’t been able to relax for most of my life. I’ve always had a vivid imagination, so I tend to retreat inside my mind when I need to take a break. However, you can probably see the problem with this technique. As a writer, I think of various scenes in my mind. I can tell you many of them aren’t rather relaxing. I discussed the concept of relaxation with my editor, and she laughed. When she regained her composure, she provided me some advice. She talked about the avenues of my creative expression and how I should not create content for my blog, portfolio, or anything else I’m into. So, I thought about the places that make me happy.

Here’s what I came up with:

I’ve always found gardening really relaxing, so I can imagine my idea of relaxation involving some sort of garden. I’d have to keep my brain out of it, though. I can see myself trying to figure out the soil composition to plan which flowers grew best in my region.

I’ve also felt at home in the mountains.

However, the activity requiring the least amount of preparation is reading.

Within the pages of a book, I imagine different lands, worlds, and periods of time. After which, a nap is appropriate.

Ear Infections suck!

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Daily writing prompt
What are you doing this evening?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I don’t remember ever having an ear infection when I was young. I’ve dealt with them in regard to the children and grandchildren. Imagine my surprise when my doctor told me I had infections in both ears. Of course, I looked at her as if she had lost her mind, but she held her ground, and I walked out of the office, pouting a little. You see, I’m supposed to be at a concert at this very moment, but no, I’m at home dealing with this imaginary spike in both my ears. I say imaginary because when I look into the mirror, I don’t see anything. So, excuse me while I spray stuff in my nose and take my other meds. Ear infections suck!

Do I have to?

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Daily writing prompt
If you had to give up one word that you use regularly, what would it be?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I’m secure with my current lexicon. Typically, I don’t use any word or phrase more than necessary. However, people may find several phrases or words a bit abrasive. I keep that in mind when I talk to them. Now, I promised my late Madre that I would be a good boy, but there are times when I slip up. So, I’m not comfortable removing any words or phrases from rotation.

I suppose I could come up with a proper list, but do I have to?

Pecan Pie and Big F**king Animals

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Daily writing prompt
Share a story about the furthest you’ve ever traveled from home.
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

This story isn’t about the furthest I’ve been from home but about a story that rocked my idea of how the world worked. Being raised in the Midwest, wildlife consisted of deer and such—everything we read about in books or saw on television. As I got older, I ran into wolves, bears, and mountain lions. How cool is that? It was pretty cool as a kid who grew up around asphalt and concrete.

One of my road trips involved driving a semi through the Northwest, Wyoming, and Montana. I had never seen such open space and beauty combined. It was absolutely breathtaking. There was good food, pleasant people, and fresh air. The silence was disturbing at first. I adjusted and enjoyed the drive. I caught a glance of my passenger window to see wild horses running. It freaked me out. I might even been a little giddy.

I spent some time in Montana, during which I had an opportunity to drive through Lulu Pass, Montana. The winding road made the drive challenging. I noticed an animal in the road, and I honked at it so it would clear the road. However, no one had told me that the air horn could piss off the wildlife. I didn’t find that out until later. So, I was on the road watching an enormous animal walk toward my truck. I was driving a cab over, so I sat higher than a typical semi. As the animal got closer, it looked like a moose, but later, I was told it was probably a Yak or Caribou or something.

The damn was tall enough to look into the cab of my truck. This animal stopped and looked directly at me. I’ve seen some hairy things in my day, but this unnerved me a bit. So, I sat there until the animal decided to move along. I waited for this moment for about an hour. Later, I was eating at a local diner and told the story; the locals told me I was lucky I didn’t get rammed and gave me a piece of pecan pie.

Boob Tube: Chronicles of a Misspent Youth

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Daily writing prompt
What TV shows did you watch as a kid?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Lately, I’ve gotten into the habit of overthinking each of the challenges I usually participate in here on WordPress. So, when I read this challenge, I decided to explore all the television programs I could remember from my youth. I used AI to assist with this project, and of course, AI started repeating television shows. So, I had to rely on my memory. So, here are the television shows I can remember watching as a kid. This list only includes only the television shows that I enjoyed.

1. All in the Family (1971–1979)

2. M*A*S*H (1972–1983)

3. Hawaii Five-O (1968–1980)

4. Happy Days (1974–1984)

5. Laverne & Shirley (1976–1983)

6. The White Shadow (1978–1981)

7. Sanford and Son (1972–1977)

8. The Streets of San Francisco (1972–1977)

9. Charlie’s Angels (1976–1981)

10. The Love Boat (1977–1987)

11. The Six Million Dollar Man (1974–1978)

12. The Bionic Woman (1976–1978)

13. Columbo (1971–2003)

14. The Jeffersons (1975–1985)

15. Good Times (1974–1979)

16. Kojak (1973–1978)

17. Starsky & Hutch (1975–1979)

18. Wonder Woman (1975–1979)

19. Taxi (1978–1983)

20. What’s Happening!! (1976 – 1979)

21. WKRP in Cincinnati (1978–1982)

22. Welcome Back, Kotter (1975–1979)

23. Fantasy Island (1977–1984)

24. Barnaby Jones (1973–1980)

25. Three’s Company (1977 – 1984)

26. Barney Miller (1975–1982)

27. The Rockford Files (1974–1980)

28. Chico and the Man (1974–1978)

29. Get Smart (1965–1970)

30. Soap (1977–1981)

31. Quincy, M.E. (1976–1983)

32. The Mod Squad (1968–1973)

33. McMillan & Wife (1971–1977)

34. Bonanza (1959–1973)

35. The Beverly Hillbillies (1962–1971)

36. The Night Stalker (1974–1975)

37. Maude (1972–1978)

38. Police Woman (1974–1978)

39. One Day at a Time (1975–1984)

40. Room 222 (1969–1974)

41. Ironside (1967–1975)

42. Mission: Impossible (1966–1973)

43. Gunsmoke (1955–1975)

44. S.W.A.T. (1975–1976)

45. Rhoda (1974–1978)

46. Baretta (1975–1978)

47. The Paper Chase (1978–1979)

48. Rawhide (1959 – 1965)

49. Magnum P.I. (1980 – 1988)

50. Airwolf (1984 – 1987)

I only listed 50 shows; I figured that was enough. I actually got close to nearly 75 shows. I think this is as much a memory exercise as anything else. It was fun reminiscing about my youth. One thing that occurred to me was that I watched too much television.

Amused

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Daily writing prompt
How are you feeling right now?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Today, I got a wild hair up my buttocks and decided to reorganize my office. I didn’t want to reorganize; I needed to relabel all my containers and plastic bins. Plastic bins are evil, just in case you didn’t know. Putting something in a large bin to store somewhere is probably a good sign that you don’t need it. However, we need to have a bunch of stuff we don’t need. I’m sure some therapists would have some fancy word for this behavior. I’m sure they could tell you exactly what it is, right after they find their notes tucked away in one of those bins from medical school.

As I continue to clean up my office and get things in order, I discover I’m making more of a mess. So, I sit here amused as I write this post. I’m a little worn out as well, but as look around and it looks like I haven’t done a damn thing. I’m just amused with myself.

Retirement is Sweet

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Daily writing prompt
What daily habit do you do that improves your quality of life?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Since I retired, I’ve been trying to figure out what I’m doing with myself most days. However, I have developed a few new habits. For some reason, I suddenly felt it was important to do self-care. When I was a young man, you were supposed to be based on the principle of good single malt and bad decisions. However, I try to eat better and enjoy the things I didn’t do when I was young.

Recently, I returned to creating art. I figured that part of my life was over since I hadn’t explored it in decades. So, every day, I brew a pot of coffee and start working on creating something. It doesn’t matter to me which avenue I decide to explore. Lately, I have been sketching out ideas for the creations I’m trying to render. Frequently, I start with character development and work on their backstories. I work until I get worn out and then nap. Napping is a new daily habit.

At the end of the day, I feel good if I have created something.

The Usual

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Daily writing prompt
What was the last thing you searched for online? Why were you looking for it?
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DAILY CHALLENGE-RESPONSE

Typically, I only look up the same stuff all the time. My search history is pretty boring. I research the following:

  • Music
  • History
  • Books

Today, I’ve been working on Samurai warriors. I’ve been creating a tribe of female samurai warriors for a story. I’m unsure how I will use them in the story. I’ve considered setting the time period during feudal Japan. However, using the code in a modern setting would also be interesting. Because I tend to dive deep into character development and create a back story of the tribe, I’ve made several character mockups using text-to-image generation.

I attempted to be authentic in these initial renderings. I won’t be sure until I do more research. However, I think these renderings came out well.

It’s Just Something about it

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Daily writing prompt
What’s your favorite time of day?
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DAILY CHALLENGE RESPONSE

I’ve always enjoyed the part of the day when it seems the world is still asleep. Nothing is stirring; it is just quiet. Today, silence is a commodity. We need to have something going all the time. We can’t seem to be still. I’m no better; I have something going on all the time. Yet, sometimes, right before dawn, I sit outside and listen to the soundscape. The crickets chirping. The rustle of the grass as a stray cat moves to its next hiding place. I feel them watching me. It’s okay because watching them. Sometimes, they come to visit. They lay on the porch, taking in the morning.

I was raised in the city, so I didn’t understand what it meant to be still. I’ve spent time in the desert and the woods. I know there are things that go bump in the night. They’re protecting themselves from our clumsiness, our rudeness, our carelessness, and our obliviousness. They have so much to say without uttering a word. I wonder what it would be like if we were just silent?

Chicken Marsala

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Daily writing prompt
What’s your favorite recipe?
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DAILY CHALLENGE RESPONSE

One of my favorite dishes is chicken marsala. I admit I usually let someone else do the cooking, and I often find myself disappointed. So, I decided to make my own version. I’ve tried several variations to suit my palette. Here is the latest recipe I’m going to try.

Air Fryer Chicken Marsala Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup Marsala wine
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Special equipment needed:
– Air fryer

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
2. In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and basil.
3. Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
4. Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket and spray with cooking spray.
5. Cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the Marsala sauce. In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
7. Add the sliced mushrooms and garlic to the skillet and cook until the mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes.
8. Pour in the chicken broth and Marsala wine and bring to a simmer.
9. Cook the sauce for 5-7 minutes, or until it has reduced by half.
10. Stir in the heavy cream and parsley and cook for 2-3 minutes.
11. Serve the chicken with the Marsala sauce spooned over the top.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature:
Air fryer: 375°F
Serving size:
4 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 42g
Sodium: 800mg
Sugar: 4g

Substitutions for ingredients:
– Chicken broth: vegetable broth or water
– Marsala wine: dry white wine or sherry
– Heavy cream: half-and-half or milk
– Mushrooms: any type of mushroom or omit

Variations:
– Add diced onions to the Marsala sauce for extra flavor.
– Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
– Serve the chicken and Marsala sauce over pasta or rice.

Wouldn’t you like to Know?

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Daily writing prompt
Where did your name come from?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I looked up my name once; you know, our obsession with googling ourselves. Perhaps we find the things we have forgotten about to be nifty. More likely, we find things that we wish we could forget about. You know, like a video of a drunken you dancing ungracefully to Rod Stewart’s Do Ya Think I’m Sexy or perhaps a blog post about a soulful rendition, though sung off-key, and is remarkably similar to an experience you’ve done. Yes, the names are withheld, but there couldn’t be two jackasses commenting the same during the period.

As far as the origin of my name, I don’t have a clue. I suppose I could spin a yarn about a maiden by a brook reading a book while a doe gently drank from the brook or something. Yeah, I got nothing …

At the Movies … Mangus Edition

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Daily writing prompt
What are your top ten favorite movies?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I’ve watched thousands of hours of video content throughout my lifetime, so it would be difficult to compile a list of my favorite movies. If I’m honest, the list changes from time to time. I get into moods where I watch a particular genre until I run out of movies. So, I will list a few movies that stand out.

The first five films on my list feature the legend of Sidney Poitier, and I’m a definite fan of the legend. My personal favorite is The Simple Life of Noah Dearborn. It wasn’t one of his many masterpieces, but its message is refreshing.

  • Blackboard Jungle (1955)
  • Defiant Ones (1958)
  • In the Heat of the Night (1967)
  • Piece of the Action (1977)
  • Simple Life of Noah Dearborn (1999)

These next five aren’t in any order, but I enjoy them each time I watch them. I don’t have a particular reason; I just like them.

  • Bait (2012)
  • The Conversation (1973)
  • King Arthur (2004)
  • The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
  • The Green Mile (1999)

These are some of the films that come to mind immediately. I’m sure if I thought about them a little longer, I could come up with a proper list and reasons for each film.

Here are some honorable mentions:

  • Cool Hand Luke (1967)
  • The Jacket (2005)
  • Silverado (1985)
  • The Natural (1984)
  • The Way of the Gun (2000)

Well, here is my list. Perhaps you have seen some of these and enjoyed them. There are maybe some you want to check out.

Stay Tuned …

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Daily writing prompt
Describe your life in an alternate universe.
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DAILY CHALLENGE RESPONSE

This prompt is too rich to answer with a quick response. As fiction writer, this prompt opens the possibility of all kinds of nifty stuff. I have to make a decision whether or not to make life better or worse. Perhaps, I could make myself charming with a wonderful sense of humor. Perhaps, I could be dashing or something. Whichever way … STAY TUNED

I’m Married the Woman who lived the house with the pretty flowers.

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How would you improve your community?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

All I knew about flowers was that you gave them to a girl you were sweet on. So, when I met my future wife, I had much to learn. Now, I had no idea that I was going to marry her at the time, but strangest things, right? I spent a great deal of time in her flower garden while we were dating. I don’t know the names of flowers, but I know how deep to plant them or whether they grow in the sun or the shade. As well as how much to water them. You may be wondering what this story has to do with improving my community. Let me explain.

Throughout our marriage, my wife and I planted numerous gardens, indoor and outdoor. The indoor gardens were a challenge, but we pulled it off. Our last garden was our biggest and most challenging garden. In this garden, we planted both vegetables and flowers. Typically, we did either one or the other. However, that’s not what made this garden special. What made this garden stand out was its effect on the neighborhood.

We lived in the shady part of town and there all kinds of madness going on 24 hours a day. The people were decent enough, but no one seemed to care about anything outside their world. We were no different. It was about surviving our circumstances best way we could. My wife’s had begun to progress and one day she said she wanted a garden. I looked at her like she had finally lost her mind. There really wasn’t any place to put the garden she described. She didn’t let it go

Our backyard was nearly completely asphalt, so one morning I stood out there looking at it wondering how we were going to pull this off. I grabbed my pickaxe and went to work. It took me a week to clear the area by hand. It didn’t occur to me to rent a tiller. I just swinging that pickaxe. I tilled the soul with a rack then planted a flower right in the middle of the clearing. I went inside and took a nap in my chair. My wife woke me up and took me to the back and it started.

Over the next few weeks, I had the whole filled with flowers. Here is the interesting part, we went around town and asked people if we could get piece of their flowers. I was surprised when nearly everyone said yes. We did this every year for three years. There were a few ladies who would set aside seedlings for my wife. Others called her when they got something new. I shook my head at this, but would get into the truck and pick stuff up. My wife even nurseries on her rolodex. They’d call each year and donate a plant or two.

One night, one of my dogs alerted me to activity outside. I noticed that a few of the neighborhood yahoos were sitting in the garden. Immediately, I was ready to kick off the property. However, something strange happened. Some trash had blown in the garden, and I watched them get up and clear it up. They kept our garden free of trash. My wife passed and I moved, but for three years they maintained the garden. I received phone calls from my wife’s flower network wondering if I was going to keep things going. I declined and they understood.

Sometimes the littlest things mean so much. I guess that’s what happens when you marry the woman in the house with the pretty flowers.

Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy

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Daily writing prompt
What positive emotion do you feel most often?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Most days, I’m content and peaceful, neither positive or negative. However, this prompt maybe think of this skit.

Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner

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Daily writing prompt
If you could host a dinner and anyone you invite was sure to come, who would you invite?
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DAILY CHALLENGE RESPONSE

I don’t do dinner parties, so the prompt doesn’t apply. However, I’ll play along for the sake of something. I’m unsure what, but I’ll play anyway.

If, I do mean if I were to consider hosting a dinner party, it would have to be for some special people. So, since we are in fantasy land, I would invite some of my favorite authors. The guest list is featured below.

Alice Munro
Amiri Baraka
Anton Chekhov
David Foster Wallace
Edgar Allan Poe
Elmore Leonard
Flannery O’Connor
Gwendolyn Brooks
James Baldwin
Kurt Vonnegut
Octavia Butler
Walter Mosley
Ralph Ellison

So, the guest list are some of my favorite authors. You probably have noticed that all of them are deceased except for one. They said they wanted a guest list. Nobody said I had to play fair

It’s Not what you think?

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Daily writing prompt
What is your favorite genre of music?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Most people I meet think my favorite genre of music is rock and roll. Based on the music I play on this blog, those reading this may be inclined to agree with that assessment. The truth is there is entirely too much music out there to be narrowed down or pigeonholed.

However, there are a few genres in which I have a soft spot: jazz, Blues, and old-school R&B. These are the music I grew up listening to. My first concert was a jazz concert. My Madre dragged me to see George Benson. I can’t remember the show, but I’ve spent my life listening to his music. The jazz record I remember listening to was Ramsey Lewis’s Sun Goddess. I didn’t know it was jazz, but I still loved it.

Madre also played Motown, the Philly sound, and other R&B artists, such as Billy Paul, Barry White, and Teddy Pendergrass. My Mother also introduced me to rock and roll. She played Doobie Brothers, Steely Dan, Linda Ronstadt, and others. So, it would seem that I was destined to be eclectic with my music choices.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

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Daily writing prompt
What’s your go-to comfort food?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

There are many types of food that provide me comfort, but there is nothing like a good ole fashioned ice cream sandwich. That’s all I got to say about that.

Clear as the Morning

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Daily writing prompt
Write about a random act of kindness you’ve done for someone.
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

When I was young, I was taught about altruism. I watched my MiMi practice this principle consistently. So, discussing random acts of kindness I’ve done is against my code. However, I can’t deny the power of random acts of kindness. They can shape one’s day or have lasting effects throughout an entire lifetime. I will discuss a few ideas I have watched emerge over the years that complement my code.

In 2000, a film called Pay It Forward was released. It was a delightful little film that I enjoyed immensely. In short, the film discusses the principle that if someone does you a kindness, you pay that kindness forward to another person. I still hear people uttering the Pay It Forward mantra. I love it. What I love about it is the fact nothing is expected in return. This makes the act altruistic in nature.

While dealing with my late wife’s health issues, I ran into a family who believed in a concept called God Winks. I had never heard of this concept and immediately dismissed it as hokum. Yet, one of the elders of the family sat down and explained the idea to me. Then, I realized it wasn’t hokum. We all have experienced seemingly unexplained acts of kindness throughout our lives, and this family called them God Winks. I still smile when I remember that conversation.

Lastly, in my studies, I came across a gentleman named Alan Watts. He had a concept I found rather refreshing that fit my code. This concept was called Clear as the Morning. Basically, the concept goes like this: When you wake up in the morning, envision your ideal morning, and whatever happens that day will be easier to handle. I have used this principle since I discovered it.

Hmmm..

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Daily writing prompt
What is the most important thing to carry with you all the time?
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DAILY CHALLENGE RESPONSE

Usually, I would discuss my backpack and its contents. However, as they say, I will be short and sweet today. The most important thing I carry is my integrity. Possessing come and go, but your integrity can be forever.

Nice Try, Hero

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Daily writing prompt
What foods would you like to make?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I eat a lot of chicken and fish. So, I would like to learn several recipes to expand my palette. However, I do enjoy making anything that requires the use of an oven. However, I’ve been known to make some rather delightful applesauce. I can’t quite recall how that happened. I mean, I don’t remember any passed down recipes or anything, but I like applesauce, so I kind of figured out how to make it. I took it to my office on several occasions and it seemed to disappear. I’ve had similar experiences with my baked salmon.

Initially, I figured some knucklehead was throwing away my lunch. One day, I slipped out of my office and caught the thieves. Some of the ladies from another department were feasting on my lunch. When I confronted them, they simply responded by telling me that I should have brought more. So, in response, I got a lunchbox and used ice packs. Their response was that I was being mean and that I should share.

I also make some decent cakes. Well, at least my grandson seems to destroy each one I make. I took some into the office as a test, along with a blend of coffee I make at home, and before the break, it was gone. Now, several disasters occurred over the years before I perfected a few items. You know, a couple of them even suggested I open a restaurant. My response…

“I’m bringing in any more food! Nice try, hero.”

Fancy Restaurants are for Chumps

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Daily writing prompt
What’s the most money you’ve ever spent on a meal? Was it worth it?
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DAILY CHALLENGE RESPONSE

I’ve spent ridiculous amounts of money on this supposedly fine cuisine. More times than not, I’ve been severely disappointed with the outcome. I took my late wife to a fancy steakhouse that she had going on about for months. In the hope of some sanity, I took her to the restaurant. She made me get dressed up and everything.

The restaurant’s atmosphere was majestic, but the food was mediocre. My wife put on a smile as she ate her dinner. I wanted to ask for a refund, but I sat there with her, watching her enjoy her meal. After she finished, we sat and chatted a bit, enjoying the atmosphere. When we returned home, she went to the refrigerator and pulled out some ground beef. She stood there in her fancy dress cooking the ground beef.

She toasted a couple of buns with butter and garlic, then sat down at the table with her famous cheeseburgers for the both of us.

She took a bite of her burger and sighed, “That place was sure nice, but the food was horrible.”

I laughed as I ate my burger.

“We spent all that money and ended up eating cheeseburgers to get filled.”, she mused while smoking a cigarette.

“Yeah, but you’re sure wearing that dress,” I said deadpan. She chuckled and smiled mischievously.

The fancy restaurant wasn’t worth it, but sitting in our kitchen and spending time together was.

My Own World

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Daily writing prompt
Which activities make you lose track of time?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

“You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.”
— Maya Angelou

I remember my mother saying, “Boy, you’re in your own little world … ain’t you?” She said this with an amused and proud expression. Later, I learned my mother had been an artist in her youth, and I guess she remembered what it was like to be on another plane of existence. Other than life, I believe passing on her creative mojo was one of the greatest she gave me. Thanks, Mom!

Lately, I’ve been enthralled with the world of artificial intelligence, specifically image generation. Somehow, this artistic expression has woken up something I considered a thing of the past. I sketched long ago, and I started telling stories. I remember using my Big Chief notebook and filling it with random drawings. My teachers would scold me because I had no paper to do my lesson. After all, I had drawn all over them. However, the teacher called my mother and suggested she get a sketchbook. Mom brought me a Mead unruled pad, and the rest was history.

It seemed like everyone was an artist in those days. We tried everything; crayons, colored pencils, watercolors, etc. You named it, and we tried it. Quickly, I discovered I didn’t have a knack for anything color. So, I stuck to sketching. I listened to the accolades my friend’s parents would bestow on their creations. My Mom would simply shrug and go back to what she was doing. It may seem like she wasn’t interested in what I was doing, but that wasn’t the case. I never had to ask for a new pad or notebook. My supplies never seemed to run out. Even when I started stories, there was always plenty of paper and writing instruments.

It seems so long ago, yet I still return to this plane after a good session. Ever since my wife passed, my episodes have gotten worse. No mystery sandwich appeared on my desk, flickering lights letting me know it was time for bed, or my favorite, the warm blanket I nestled under while falling asleep in my chair, scribbling my latest stint into madness. However, I try my best to return in a reasonable amount of time.

Perhaps in enough time to post a story, picture, or photo. Who knows? Because most of the time, I’m in my own world.

Boy, you part squirrel?

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Daily writing prompt
What’s the most delicious thing you’ve ever eaten?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

As a kid, my idea of fresh fruit came from the market on a white tray wrapped in Saran Wrap. Of course, I ate apples from apple trees and stuff. However, I ran into many apples that needed to be ripe more or were too ripe. So, to solve this problem, the stuff on the tray was always right—well, at least of the time.

I married a southern woman, where dinner was a specific time and all that. I always looked at her strangely because I was hungry when I was hungry. One day, we were at her mother’s for dinner. Of course, my wife and her sisters had to show up early to assist in preparing the meal. The “men folk” had to sit on the carport until they sent for us. I was the youngest and the newest in the group. I sat there listening to garbage that older men sling at younger ones.

Suddenly, I was starving, so I went to tell my wife I would get something to eat while waiting for them to finish. You would think I had committed a cardinal sin or something. All my sister-inlaws started having a conniption about what I just said. Now, I was newly married, and my sister – inlaw’s had absolutely no sway. However, my mother-in-law made a sound in a tone that I recognized from my own mother. Quickly, I prepared myself for an exit. However, I came to my rescue, seeing my death was imminent. I didn’t know. I swear. How dare I walk into a kitchen of southern women cooking dinner and announce I was getting food from someplace. I want to point out here that making this announcement in any kitchen, anywhere in the world, most likely will have the same effect. Let’s just chalk this mistake to youthful ignorance.

My wife matched right outside, past the “men folk” laughing about something. I was hungry, and I got mean when I got hungry. There was a peach tree at the end of the driveway. My wife suggested I eat a few peaches to hold me over.

“From where?” I asked, looking confused and worried at once.

My wife returned my look. “The tree babe,” she said, pointing at the tree with several peaches on the ground around the trunk. I looked at my wife sternly.
“I’m not eating those,” I said firmly and began walking away, muttering over my shoulder, ” I only eat fresh peaches, you know, the ones on the white tray!” I had the classic duh expression on my face. It was something I used regularly back then.

My wife stood shaking her head and started laughing. She was holding her side and everything. I know I could occasionally be the source of extreme levity, and I didn’t feel this was one of those moments.

“They don’t get any fresher than these, hun, right off the tree,” she continued as she walked away. So, I tasted a peach. I was fully prepared to render I proper, “Woman, I told you.” However, I needed to be corrected. Those peaches were the best thing I had ever tasted. I ate one, then another, and another. Suddenly, I snapped out of my euphoric bliss.

“Boy, get down from there!” I hear a voice shout as I’m continuing stuffing more peaches down my throat.

“Girl, get your husband!” my mother-in-law told her daughter and looked back up at me. Boy, you part squirrel?”

There will be no lolligaging … Mister!

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Daily writing prompt
How do you waste the most time every day?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I always liked it when MiMi called me Mister. It made me feel grown-up or something. Maybe special would be a better word. However, this excitement was only temporary. For the word Mister meant trouble. It wasn’t like she had every minute planned or anything, but you weren’t going to be sitting on your butt while she was working; no, sir!

So, I wondered how she would feel about sitting around and wondering how I would spend my day. I recently retired and haven’t gotten the hang of these as of yet. I still feel I need to be doing something. I’ve worked since I was 13, so sitting on my butt isn’t how I’m built. So, I suppose I waste most of my time these days figuring out what I will do.

You know, things like, what story am I working on? What kind of image should I create?

AI-Generated with Vivago.AI by author MK

I’m constantly pestered with my choices to the endless questions that arise arbitrarily. For example, “Does that flower look real enough?” Should I grab my camera and go take some photos of real flowers? So, much time and so many different things to do. I would call my brother and ask him about my dilemma, but he isn’t retired yet. He makes a face when my other friend and I mention we are.

If I’m writing …

As I stood in what I now know to be the regions of my mind, the pathways guided me to the stories; vibrant globes were precious memories. I took a step, and I was frisked into a story. The whirl came into focus, and I was upon a horse galloping down a dirt path.

Does this opening have enough punch? I shake my head and go back to playing with images.

AI-Generated with Vivago.AI by author MK

Is she who I envisioned when I created her?

So, you see, I spend most of my time wondering about stuff. Were there female pirates? If so, what did they really look like? Because Hollywood gets everything wrong. As I finish this post, I’ll leave you with MiMi’s immortal words.

“Boy, if you have time to wonder about all that, [pause] Whew! You need a job!”

Soft Serve

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Daily writing prompt
Which food, when you eat it, instantly transports you to childhood?
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DAILY CHALLENGE RESPONSE

When I think of childhood, I think of soft serve ice cream or the ice cream man.

Ask me a Real Question

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Daily writing prompt
Who is your favorite historical figure?
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

When it comes to historical figures, there are too many people to name. That’s just the people we know all about. This doesn’t include the people who conveniently wrote out the annuals of history. I once met a man who worked as an engineer at NASA during the space race. I’ve never heard or read his name anywhere, but he was there. I saw the pictures and remembered the stories. Stories that were confirmed years later in books and motion pictures. But to ask someone about their favorite historical figure? Oh, come on, ask me a real question.

Who decided who is historic anyway? Who makes that determination? I don’t know them, do you know them? You pick up five different history books and have five different accounts of an event or person. Who knows the real truth. However, I love the journey of discovering more information about a person or a topic. There is nothing better for me. Well, until I incorporate that information into one of my stories and sit back, waiting for a local know-it-all to tell me I got my facts wrong. It’s always a pleasure to watch their forehead crinkle and their bunk. Then, they clear their throat to inform me of my error. Followed by this now historical line of conjecture.

“Hmm… this isn’t really historically accurate, but since it’s fiction, I’ll give it a pass.”

Like I give a flying f_ [beep]!

The history taught in schools makes me shudder. I remember asking one of my granddaughters about the history of the computer. Their response “Why does that matter?” I thought I was going to blow a gasket. Neither my children nor grandchildren understood my reaction. Which just increased my fury. They certainly didn’t have a problem. “Peepaw, I need a new laptop.”, “Peepaw, my laptop broke. Can you fix it?” How could something so instrumental to our existence not be taught in schools? They were still teaching Colonial America and the people who shaped it but weren’t teaching about the people who created the instrument they used to teach it.

Ada Lovelace isn’t taught in the history books. If it wasn’t for figuring out that computers could be used for more than calculations, we as a society wouldn’t be where we are now. Lovelace algorithm was built by countless inventors. So when I tell Alexa to play a playlist or ask Siri to set a reminder, perhaps they should have been Ada. Why not? I’m listening to a lecture on physics as I write this post on a pair of Bluetooth headphones. Thank god for Bluetooth; I could never find a pair of headphones with a long enough cord. Well, you can thank Hedy Lamarr for the algorithm. Yep, the beauty queen and movie star from back in the day.

Lamarr co-invented a frequency-hopping torpedo for the Allied forces during WWII, but it was never used. However, Lamarr’s frequency-hopping technology was later used throughout the U.S. military. I had used the tech for years before I knew Lamarr had a hand in its development. I was researching the Olympic games for a post and discovered something interesting. We have heard of Jesse Owens’s legendary exploits during the 1936 Olympics. He won four gold medals during the event and pissed off Hilter for good measure. So, he is always a cool person in history. However, have you heard of Cornelius Johnson?

Cornelius Johnson won the gold medal in the high jump, setting the record. Johnson was 23 years old when he accomplished this feat. Unfortunately, Johnson died in 1946, six months before his 33rd birthday. The United States did a podium sweep that day, meaning the gold, silver, and bronze were won by U.S. athletes. Dave Albritton, silver medalist, and Delos Thurber, bronze medalist, both outlived Johnson but were also left out of the history books.

We are who we are because of history, whether it be good, bad, or ugly. Each known or unknown event has helped you develop, no matter where you form. We need to appreciate what we can and learn from all of it.

The RAM

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What’s the oldest thing you own that you still use daily?

DAILY CHALLENGE RESPONSE

For whatever reason, AI has something against generating an image of a Dodge Ram, but whatever. I drive an old Dodge Ram that’s 19 years old. She needs some loving, but she still gets me where I need to go. I will start repairs sometime in the next few weeks. Hopefully, if the issues aren’t too severe.

It isn’t that kind of day…

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What are the most important things needed to live a good life?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Typically, questions like these, I would have some philosophical response intended to make you pause and consider the state of the world. But, it isn’t that kind of day.

Everything I need is right there in that photo. At least that’s how I feel at the moment. Tomorrow’s another story, now isn’t it?

Well, you can call me …

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If you had to change your name, what would your new name be?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

When i think of this question it reminds me of this ridiculous scene from back in the day.

If had to change my name … it just wouldn’t be me. I’ve gotten used to my crusty self. I’m frayed around a few edges and plump tattered around the rest. But, I’m me. My creaky bones sound off louder than ever. That’s because I’ve used them. I’ve laughed, cried and fought.

I HAVE LIVED!

This is just wrong…

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Describe your dream chocolate bar.

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

How you gonna ask me a question like this?

Knowing I’m a diabetical … [scoffs] [rocking back and forth … muttering …] Strawberries, peanuts, covered nugget…ZZzzzz

[muttering] got me dreaming and shit … knowing I can’t have none of that goodness … That’s just wrong!

Squeeze Me

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Where would you go on a shopping spree?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Shopping Sprees? I’m bold, daring, and a tad bit reckless. Slinging money left and right. Yep, that’s me. Three places I make it rain at. Amazon, local used bookstore, and local used record shop. I know it’s crazy, and I need to contain myself. Yes, I’ve thought about therapy. Perhaps, even joining some sort of support group. You know, stand up there sharing my tales of how I spent my money on a first-edition Poe. Perhaps I tell them about the thingamajig I got on the lighting deal. I saved so much I can’t believe I got it. What a bargain. You know, “that deal” sitting in the junk drawer, and you can’t even know what it is, not to mention why you brought it? Tell this to a perfect stranger? I don’t think so!

But I’ll go anyway because I have nothing to do on Fridays at 6:00 p.m. St. John’s has a lovely meeting room, and they spare no expense on the refreshments. However, the guy who leads the Thursday meeting at St. Agnes has a booming voice and stares at you with penetrating eyes. I find myself sliding down in my chair by the time he’s done. I’m thinking my shopping sprees aren’t diddlysquat compared to him. I’m just a cute little furry kitten.

~Give a me a squeeze~

I Just wanted to Fly

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When you were five, what did you want to be when you grew up?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

When I was five, huh? I just wanted to fly. Then, jump motorcycles, run fast, be GI Joe, be a singer in a Rock & Roll band, and make my Mom proud.

Art

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Daily writing prompt
Describe one simple thing you do that brings joy to your life.
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DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I came up with potential responses to this prompt. Either would have been fine. However, I spent most of the night and a good part of the wee hours working. As a multi-genre artist, work could mean anything. Well, last night, I worked on character descriptions for my fiction. It’s nothing to conjure up a person and make them do stuff. However, sometimes I don’t have a clear picture of their appearance. If I don’t have a clear idea of how I can expect the reader to have one, so I worked on my descriptions.

I fed these descriptions into AI to see what it would render. First, I had to find an image generator that provided realistic renderings. I wasn’t looking for photo quality or anything, just potential mock-ups of the characters. After hours of tweaking, I don’t care how good your chair is; your body will tell you enough is enough. So, I called it quits and went to bed.

I realized something this morning while I had coffee. I truly enjoyed myself last night, but my realization didn’t stop there. It occurred to me that creating art is my jam. It’s the one simple thing that brings me joy.

Here are a few examples of the concepts I worked on last night

Leroy Grime
Female Private Investigator
Surrogate Daughter (take 1)
Surrogate Daughter (take 2)

None of these renderings are final, but they provide direction as I continue to develop the appearance of these characters.

I’m not that Damn Old

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Do you remember life before the internet?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

This is sort of a tricky question. It’s tricky because a version of the internet has been around since the 60’s. However, this version of the internet, wasn’t available to the public. To be honest, only the select few even knew of it existence. Now, the version that this prompt is properly referring to became public in late 80’s. I already a working adult, so I remember the beginning of the transition well.

I also remember life prior to this transition. In the age of technical ignorance, things were quite simple, but very time consuming. We did things by hand. In the 80’s we had computers, but we did not have hard drives or cloud storage. Instead of carrying a flash drive in my pocket. I carried a library card, bus pass, and a floppy disk stuffed between the pages of my notebook with my stories in it.

Search Engines

In the pictures below represent what we used for research before the internet. We had ideas scribbled in our notebooks or index cards. We spent hours going through these drawers of cards sorted by subject and author. We would read passages from several books trying to narrow down the subject matter.

We would spend time in these shelves trying to find the perfect passage for your research. It usually ended up learning something that you never intended to learn. Often, it reshaped your entire direction of your research. So much time spent going into the new direction, only to scrape it because it just became too big for the parameters of your paper. Your notebooks are filled with information to be researched another time.

My Uncle taught me a coding system for notes that I still use today. I found an old notebook from high school and it had so many notations on various subjects it was crazy the stuff I researched back then. There were theories in there that were so far off, but there were a few that I wished I had the notebook during developing a few theorems. It would have saved me some time.

Streaming Services & Cloud Storage – YouTube, Netflix, and alike

We went to the movie theater and watched matinee because they were cheaper. Face it everyone was poor as hell back then. Well, at least everyone I knew. We had negatives from the photos we took nearly organized in boxes. No one got hacked and private information wasn’t exposed. At least, not by a stranger on the other side of the world.

We sat at uncomfortable desks watching dudes that talked funny telling us how we supposed to think about what we just read written by a dude that his last breath three centuries prior. We had talking ponies named “Patch” telling us not to take candy from stranger. We passed notes under the desk and scribbled the names of our crushes on our notebooks.

We read actual books until our eyes burned. Bookbags filled with pens, pencils, and erasers. Plastic bags with zippers held our sanity and security. It nothing like your pen running in the middle of drafting a paper. Your hands start to ache, and your stomach is growling. Your nowhere close to being to finding what your were looking for. We expressed our thoughts within the pages of these notebooks. For aspiring writers stories begin to blossom from the words of others. It funny how that happens sometimes.

It’s almost like its a part of the writer’s job is to inspire other writers. I don’t think this thoughtful gift is intentional. I think it happens somewhere in the act of telling the story. Often, I wonder if my work has done this for another writer. Then, I decide it’s not important. It’s not something I need to worry about. It will only get in the way.

There was a certain freedom to writing before the internet. Just you, your thoughts, and your aspirations confined in the binds of the notebook of the time. You hope you have written something people want to read. You hope you wrote something that will make a difference for at least reader, even if that reader is you. Sometimes we write something that absolutely doesn’t belong in the thing we are writing. That sentence that appears out of nowhere, but man you know you have something special. I miss writing before the internet. I miss portions of life before the web.

Yes, I remember life before the internet. I recognize how much it has helped so many people, but I’m cognizant of the fact it has also destroyed so many.

It’s Personal

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Do you practice religion?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

My relationship with the Master is a personal one. I believe we must coexist with one another.

All that Remains

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What personal belongings do you hold most dear?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

For a long time, I fought for humor, integrity, and truth. I was steadfast in my duty. Then, for a moment, I fought for glory. This was the moment of corruption.

How can this be?

After years of devotion, it only takes a moment to lose everything. Corruption festers, chipping away at who you are.

So today, with each breath, I fight to protect what is most dear …

All that remains of my soul.