Paul's Corner

"Visualize Whirled Peas"

"No One Can Make You Feel Inferior Without Your Consent."

"Love Your Enemies. It Really Gets Them Confused!"

"Concentrate on Your Own Fam Damily!"

HAPPY (Belated) Soltsice(s)!
Dhiana

Dhiana, I really don't think I want to visualize those peas. lol.

Hello Paul
- and June, Diana, Sarah, Nina (you know I kind of liked Orlando for a name. I pictured a six foot quarterback writing all those emails!) and everyone else. I’ve found all the comments illuminating, inspiring, entertaining, and sometimes all three at once and I’m really glad to have found you all! So Thank You from me too, Thank You to Cat, and a special Thank You to Paul for being the reason we're all here in the first place.
I haven’t suffered from depression in my life ….. yet (never say never). However like everyone I beat myself up about my inadequacies when I’m down. So now, courtesy of Nina/Orlando, I shall remind myself “This is the WORSE time to be analyzing yourself. Stop it! Now is the time to be gentle and kind with yourself.” Not very punchy for a bumper sticker though. My favourite quote, by Henry James no less (I’m so glad it wasn’t Marge Simpson) is “Never believe that you know the last word about any human heart”. I like it because it reminds me that no-one should ever be reduced to a type (he’s lazy, she’s selfish, they never listen), and everyone can surprise you …… and that includes yourself.

Lesley

P.S Depression ISN’T self-indulgent although people will tell you it is. Having children can be (and was in my case). And, like most self-indulgent things, not always good for you in large quantities (joke)

"Jesus loves you. But I'm His favorite."

*giggle*

I've been thinking about this. After following all the posts and what not, do you realize there are a whole bunch of people out there who are spending thousands of dollars a year on therapy when we have our own private group sessions right here, courtesy Paul! We read everyone's thoughts and feelings, sorrows and pains, hopes and desires, and don't feel embarassed to share our own. This is a great place to "come home" to at night, to kick back and catch up with friends--new and old.

Thank you Paul for giving us this arena within which to speak our minds.

Oh, and yes, I promise as soon as I see a "worthy" bumpersticker, I shall quote it to y'all.

Hi Paul and all,

Here is a quote for inspiration. This is my favorite quote,
"Far away there in the sunshine are my highest aspirations. I may not reach them, but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in them and try to follow where they lead."- Louisa May Alcott

This is another of my favorites and it should be turned into a bumper sticker
"Anyone who doesn't make mistakes isn't trying hard enough."-Wess Roberts

Take care,
Marie

Between January 4th(the end of one job) and March 28 (the start of a new job) my husband an I took two vacations. One week in the New Orleans area where my son and daughter-in-law live and the other week to Arizona to see my mother-in-law.
These two writings are probably not very reverant and maybe not proper for this site, but I thought memorable non the less.
This first one was written on the trailer doors of a semi-tractor trailer rig and appeared to have had several authors.
Jesus Saves
Sinners
Then he redeems them
For Cash and Valuable Prizes.
Number 2 was posted in a small mom and pop restuarant in the New Orleans area.
Everyone brings Joy into this Restuarant,
Some when they arrive,
Others when they Leave.
Paul, it was good to hear from you, hope all is going well. You always have such words of wisdom for us. As for the rest of you, you know things about me that my own family has no clue about. Thanks for being here.

This is a great website -- so many fascinating, intelligent people. And, of course, Paul you're awesome!

Seems like many have had some tough challenges to wrestle with. As have I (don't get me started).

My biggest tip for dealing with difficulties are to always find some way to laugh. Whenever something goes wrong in my life, which is rather frequently, I usually say "well, that seems about right," in a semi sarcastic way, which somehow manages to add a little humor to the situation and helps put things in perspective.

For example, I came home from work today and couldn't get out of my car because my neighbor's vicious dogs had gotten out of their yard and were surrounding me. It was a perfect "seems about right" situation.

I also read A LOT of Dave Barry.

Obviously, not everything can be laughed off, but it's easier to deal with the toughest stuff when you've managed to find some humor in everything else.

Not many bumper stickers in CA, personalized license plates, are the only reading at redlights available. Jokes about CA multi-tasking drivers are more then welcome. I hope a poem is accpetable for when you need a lift, a laugh, and a reality check.

Wear Sunscreen - Mary Schmich

If I could offer you only one tip for the future, sunscreen would be it. The long-term benefits of sunscreen have been proved by scientists, whereas the rest of my advice has no basis more reliable than my own meandering experience. I will dispense this advice now.

Enjoy the power and beauty of your youth. Oh, never mind. You will not understand the power and beauty of your youth until they've faded. But trust me, in 20 years, you'll look back at photos of yourself and recall in a way you can't grasp now how much possibility lay before you and how fabulous you really looked. You are not as fat as you imagine.

Don't worry about the future. Or worry, but know that worrying is as effective as trying to solve an algebra equation by chewing bubble gum. The real troubles in your life are apt to be things that never crossed your worried mind, the kind that blindside you at 4pm on some idle Tuesday.
Do one thing every day that scares you.

Sing.

Don't be reckless with other people's hearts. Don't put up with people who are reckless with yours.

Floss.

Don't waste your time on jealousy. Sometimes you're ahead, sometimes you're behind. The race is long and, in the end, it's only with yourself.
Remember compliments you receive. Forget the insults. If you succeed in doing this, tell me how.

Keep your old love letters. Throw away your old bank statements.

Stretch.

Don't feel guilty if you don't know what you want to do with your life. The most interesting people I know didn't know at 22 what they wanted to do with their lives. Some of the most interesting 40-year-olds I know still don't.

Get plenty of calcium. Be kind to your knees. You'll miss them when they're gone.

Maybe you'll marry, maybe you won't. Maybe you'll have children, maybe you won't. Maybe you'll divorce at 40, maybe you'll dance the funky chicken on your 75th wedding anniversary. Whatever you do, don't congratulate yourself too much, or berate yourself either. Your choices are half chance. So are everybody else's.

Enjoy your body. Use it every way you can. Don't be afraid of it or of what other people think of it. It's the greatest instrument you'll ever own.
Dance, even if you have nowhere to do it but your living room.

Read the directions, even if you don't follow them. Do not read beauty magazines. They will only make you feel ugly.

Get to know your parents. You never know when they'll be gone for good. Be nice to your siblings. They're your best link to your past and the people most likely to stick with you in the future.Understand that friends come and go, but with a precious few you should hold on. Work hard to bridge the gaps in geography and lifestyle, because the older you get, the more you need the people who knew you when you were young.

Live in New York City once, but leave before it makes you hard. Live in Northern California once, but leave before it makes you soft. Travel.

Accept certain inalienable truths: Prices will rise. Politicians will philander. You, too, will get old. And when you do, you'll fantasize that when you were young, prices were reasonable, politicians were noble and children respected their elders.Respect your elders.Don't expect anyone else to support you. Maybe you have a trust fund. Maybe you'll have a wealthy spouse. But you never know when either one might run out.
Don't mess too much with your hair or by the time you're 40 it will look 85.

Be careful whose advice you buy, but be patient with those who supply it. Advice is a form of nostalgia. Dispensing it is a way of fishing the past from the disposal, wiping it off, painting over the ugly parts and recycling it for more than it's worth.

But trust me on the sunscreen.

D-Lo

D-Lo's right. There aren't too many bumper stickers in California and the ones I do see are rude like too many of our drivers.

Lifted lightly from the Internet tonight:

- Honk if you love peace and quiet

- I Brake for No Apparent Reason

- I can handle pain until it hurts

- I used to think I was indecisive... but now I'm not so sure

- Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it.

D-Lo

You must drive an awfully BIG car!!

Thanks Dolores,

I had forgotten all about that poem. Thanks for reminding me, I really like it.

For me, remembering bumper stickers is about like remembering jokes, nearly impossible. But here's a slogan I like to keep in mind. I think it used to belong to one of the environmental groups:

"Think globally and act locally."

Sometimes I get so frustrated that I can't change the world. Maybe I'm just mad at myself because I've never really tried. That's a stupid thing to say, huh? No-one can change the world.

I'm reminded of this because we rented Fern Gully last night. For those of you out there who actually get to watch live action movies, this is a decent cartoon about the Australian rainforest. (I swear sometimes I can feel my brain leaking away in front of children's cartoons, though.) Anyway, the movie was dedicated to "our children and our children's children".

Heather-

But if as the Desiderata states, we are all "childeren of the univere, no less than the trees and the stars. . ."

If we are indeed all intricately woven into the fabric of life- if each of us has a specific purpose and place-- then every tiny thing we do, good or bad-- every change we make-- any way that we attempt to influence the world:

Would this not in some way effect the entire fabric?

Just a thought...

Megan

If anyone wants to see their share of vanity plates...go to Virginia. They have more there than anywhere I have ever been. (from what I understand the vanity plate is a huge source of income for the state)...I have been in PA since I left Virginia and whenever i see a Virginia plate...50% of the time it is a vanity plate.

Favorite ones seen: "Rekweum" and "G Cantor"

The "G Cantor" was on an Infinity. The concept of infinity used to desribe number sets was introduced by Georg Cantor in the late 19th century...(the owner of the Infinity was one of my law prof.s)

Other notable bumper stickers:

-I once killed a six-pack just watch it die.

-When the rapture comes can I have your car?

There is one particular bumper sticker that kinda bothers me. "Eve was framed." This seems to show up on a few college girl cars and other would be feminist cars. While I like the sentiment that "the first woman" wasn't the sinful downfall of man, I cannot get past this obvious error in explanation. If anything, Eve was entrapped. She was set up to take the fall. The legal definition of entrapment is a tad more complicated and, if applied more strictly, also probably not true. How could she have been FRAMED? There were two people (humans) in the garden of Eden...The serpent did it and made it look like Eve? Sure, "Eve was entrapped" would take up more room on a bumper and would mean less to those who don't know what entrapment is...but still...Nothing destroys an argument like inaccuracy.

Ok, that was my daily rant.

Sarah

P.S. I have a sweatshirt that reads, "Semper Ubi, Sub Ubi." ("always wear underwear")

Sarah,

How many people come up to you when you're wearing that sweatshirt and tilt their heads to the side like a dog that is confused?

Do you think you could get them for all of us?

I'm going to be a trifle sexist and base here, but Paul, fess up... boxers, briefs or "nil sub ubi"?

Wow, you are a lawyer, Sarah! But you're right. The more accurate you are, the more effective your statement.

Samantha, I like Dave Barry, too. He wrote a very funny story about a dog show in Florida in which the dogs and owners dressed alike. (Printed in Chicken Soup for the Cat & Dog Lover' Soul.)

Heather, it is frustrating when we can't seem to help the world make major progress on such problems as global warming, hunger, and nuclear disarmament. But by changing ourselves we move the world closer toward our ideals. I'm trying to reduce my impact on the environment. I'm also involved in local politics where I may soon find myself in the line of fire from both sides— or find a way to resolve some issues more amicably. If we join together with people of like mind, we can do even more. I like what Margaret Mead said: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." (I stink with jokes, also. Remember some good punch lines, though.)

Megan, yes. Every action creates a different reaction, a different effect, and sets new things in motion. Rent "Run, Lola, Run" and go see "Minority Report."

We don' really have bumper stickers in Scotland but the funniest thing I saw was written on a van that needed a wash:

I wish my girlfirend was as dirty as this van!

Always trust Glasgow people to be eloquent and succinct!

Hope everyone is well
June

Dhiana here...realizing that I am TOTALLY going to get slammed for this "education", I'll toss it out there anyway:

I am HUGE on creation theories, myths, etc. The Eve was framed/entrapped thing...there's another way of looking at it alltogether in that Eve was neither framed, nor entrapped. She was lied to. By Yahweh/God. (here's where the tomatoes start to pelt the screen, I know...)

There's a little publication, by a guy called Oberon, in which he explains things (based on archeological finds, other "factual history" etc)a little differently. He states the "Elohim" of Genesis is a plural word, including male and female, and should be translated as "Gods" or "Pantheon" (collection of gods)and that *they* created humans in their image. Yahweh was a local god of one geographical area, and the garden of Eden was his own little pet people project with this one little group of previously created folks. (Insinuating that there were lots of other gods looking after the rest of the world.)

Basic splah: Yahweh told Adam and Eve not to eat of the apple of the Tree of Knowledge because then they would have the knowledge of the gods ("be able to discern between good and evil"--oh, and that's a BAD thing?), and thus become god-like themselves. So, Yahweh, a self-admittedly jealous god, gave his pet humans a test, and told them if they ate of that tree that "for on the day you eat of it you shall most surely die". Y didn't want them to be like him...all-knowing and all-powerful cause what fun would that be?

The serpent said don't listen to Y, you won't die.

Take note that Adam and Eve DIDN'T die after eating the apple. Adam, in fact, lived for hundreds of years, fathering many children, etc. The only thing that came outta that nasty apple-test was that Yahweh's people viewed nakedness the mark of good and evil, and you can tell to this day who are OF Yahweh's lineage, by the obsessiveness of covering the naked body. Those not "of" Yahweh, or Adam and Eve's lineage, those other cultures around the world that use clothing for protection, support, warmth, cleanliness and NOT because they are ashamed of their bodies, those are the other people that the bible itself even speaks of.

SO, there's my little thorn-in-the-side for you today. AGAIN, I am not prostletizing anything, just adding food for thought on this thread. (Jeepers, and I thought posting the bumber sticker "Jesus is Coming. Look Busy!" was too politically incorrect to post. Go, Dhi...)

If anyone is interested in the link to that creation story, pls email me privately. And again, I am totally not making light of or blasting anyone's ideals or "religion" or anything...I'm just adding another idea to the pot.

And now for something completely different: we were getting a bit giggly over Guinness on Saturday and came up with this question:

PAUL, if you could catapult anything, what would it be? ;-)

Peace,
Dhiana

Is there anywhere I could get a printable copy of "Wear Sunscreen"?
My favorite bumper stickers:

Eschew obfuscation.

Always drink upstream from the herd.

Don't squat on your spurs.

On around here that's popular-"I brake for garage sales."

Is there anywhere I could get a printable copy of "Wear Sunscreen"?
My favorite bumper stickers:

Eschew obfuscation.

Always drink upstream from the herd.

Don't squat on your spurs.

On around here that's popular-"I brake for garage sales."

Best bumper sticker yet:
Jesus ist the answer! What was the question...?

No, serioulsy, here is something that moved me very much when I read it, especially because it shows you the things that really matter when you are fighting to survive.It is titled:All I really need to know in life I learned in Kindergarten:

-Share everything
-Play fair
-Don´t hit people
-Put things back where you found them
-Clean up your own mess
-Don´t take things that aren´t yours
-Say you´re sorry when you hurt someone
-Wash your hands before you eat
-Flush
-Warm cookies and cold milk are good for you
-Live a balanced life-learn some and think some and draw and paint and sing and dance and play and work every day some
-TAke a nap every afternoon
-When you go out into the world, watch our for traffic,hold hands and stick together
-Be aware of wonder

Never forget the last one though, especially when you are down.

Lots of love from Germany
Franziska

A challenging encouragement for me

"Work like you don't need money,
Love like you've never been hurt,
And dance like no one's watching."

the love part is the hardest
the dancing is fun - though it's more fun to watch Paul in Strictly Ballroom -

kathy

Is this what you were looking for, Mary Ellen?

http://www.northernlatitude.com/sunscreen.html

"Wear Sunscreen," an article written by Mary Schmich of the Chicago Tribune, June 1997, or the Baz Luhrmann project?

Touché! Yes the car is a BIG truck, has to be to accommodate the surf boards, skate boards, karate equipment,and all the other obsessions my son has adopted. However, I ever try to remain the rebel without a clue, and refuse to grow up or conform by getting the standard car they issue when you move to CA. No names mentioned to protect the blonde and affluent of our state. Besides the larger the car, the more persuasive your argument, when speaking with “pleasant” drivers as Diane mentioned. I’ve driven in Germany, Italy, England,and Boston and I think CA holds it's own. Yes, I move often, bit of a Gypsy in my soul, not due to being on wanted posters. Forgive the sarcasm of my humour, it's never meant to offend anyone, only offer a laugh and a smile.

For those in Australia/Europe, the link for copies of the Desiderata series is:

http://www.biblioz.com/main.php

You can search by Max Ehrmann or for a full listing Desiderata. They ship books within Australia and Europe. The killer is you can go to Amazon.com and find the same books at better prices for US shoppers. I don’t know if Amazon ships international. Possibly their UK division reaches more locations.

The link for the printable Wear Sunscreen:

http://www.geocities.com/dpbspace/index.html

A great website, of poetry, quotes, and memorable speeches, that we all love to remember. It even has the speech from the film Trainspotting called “Choose Life”

Hope all are doing well

D-Lo

The sunscreen "poem" was written in Mary Schmich in her column. It was originally prefaced with her idea that everyone should write a commencement speech at least once in their lifetime, so she decided to try her hand at it and this is what she came up with... Or something like that.

Then it ended up on the internet as a commencement speech supposedly given by Kurt Vonnegut at MIT or something, then it was put to music and came to fame once again on Baz Luhrmann's cd compilation of music from SB, R+J and other misc stuff he put together called "Something for Everybody."

It is a great piece filled with many truths that are so obvious - but in the hustle and bustle of everyday life we over look them.

Running with scissors today!

Charlie

Since it looks like we are all pretty good with advice around here, and there seems to be an abundance of occupations--I NEED HELP!

Recently I finished writing my first book, "Dancing With A Stranger." It's along the lines of a "Romancing The Stone" sort of thing. The heroine is a location scout who gets mixed up in intrigue (blackmail, blowing up the USS Constitution--standard adventure stuff) and hooks up with a professional photographer along the way to go after the bad guys.

Anyway, I don't need to bore you with the details. I have been sending the first few chapters, a synopsis and query letter to literary agents, hoping one would at least take a nibble. I keep getting the same comments: "This is really a great story, blah blah blah, BUT we have too many clients and not enough time to concentrate on new authors."

Does anyone have a clue how to get your foot in the door? One or two acquaintances of mine have read it and loved it. (They are all avid readers who aren't being partial due to our friendship.)

I'd appreciate hearing from you. Thanks, guys.

Kay Lynne

Ever think of getting an agent to read then circulate the manuscript for you? Would save you leg work, and an agent would know the best publisher/chance you'd have at placing your novel. It's all to do with who's buying what, when, and a reputable agent would know the inside track. If it's a romance you might try eharlequin.com or writerspace.com ... authors and agents go to those websites.

Good luck. And don't give up.

Hi everyone

Hope you are all doing OK.

I guess I am really on a questioning phase at the moment. I always said if I had Jesus in front of me I would have to see a miracle with my own eyes to believe it was him - that's terrible isn't it. I've always been a huge doubting Thomas.

Anyway been spending lots of time thinking about what people have been saying -thanks Cat, you're like the sister I never had!

So here I am in middle age and I still can't work out so much stuff so I'm looking to you all and asking, if you believe in karma and reincarnation- how in god's name does it work?

From what I have read and been told we have the same people in our lives everytime we come back but they always play a different role - is that a common belief? Also that we are here to learn lessons and we keep coming back until we have learnt.

I have friends who have learning difficulties and physical difficulties and friends who suffer emotionally and from what I understand karma seems to be a pay back system (in a very simplistic term). You're bad in this life, you pay in the next - which means I was Svengali in my last life!

I know you guys will come up with some answers. I love being able to come on here and discuss these spiritual issues with people. No-one really in my circle either cares or understands and frankly they already think I'm a bit mad.... anyway.

Paul - I hope you are well and the girl are getting over their colds. Thanks for the tips on the books. I bought Seth Speaks and Conversations with God Bk 1 today. Never heard of them before this web site and you. Ta. I do anticipate more deep and meanginful questions in the near future however. Have you ever worked your way through the Artists Way? Very creatively challenging.

Sarah - I want a copy of your t-shirt!

Thoughtfully, as ever

June/Ange

PS My name is not really June it's Angela, Ange to my friends which you all are. I didn't sign my first post and someone took the date to be my name and I've just been using that 'till now. Somehow it's made it a bit easier to pour out my heart when I've been posting under a pseudonym - hope I haven't offended.

It's taken me ages to find but I wanted to share with you one of my favourite poems. I fear I am in danger of sounding hopeful! It's translated from the Spanish but you all probably know it anyway. My favourite is the last verse - it really hits home hard.

If suddenly you do not exist,
if suddenly you no longer live,
I shall live on.

I do not dare,
I do not dare to write it,
if you die.

I shall live on.

For where a man has no voice,
there shall be my voice.

Where blacks are flogged and beaten,
I cannot be dead.

When my brothers go to prison,
I shall go with them.

When victory,
not my victory,
but the great victory
comes,
even if I am dumb I must speak;
I shall see it coming even if I am blind.

No, forgive me.
if you, beloved, my love,
If you no longer live,
if you
have died,
all the leaves will fall in my breast,
it will rain on my soul night and day,
the snow will burn my heart,
I shall walk with frost and fire and death and snow,
my feet will want to walk to where you are sleeping,
but
I shall stay alive,
because above all things you wanted me
indomitable,
and, my love, because you know that I am not only a man
but all mankind.

Ange

Hey everyone!
Hope all of your days are going well... Just taking a little break from the tediousness of my job. Was speaking with a friend a few days ago, and came up with an inspirational new outlook. We were thinking about how you always see the best sides of people on vacations (well... usually...)because they're so carefree, happy, and relaxed. So we've declared ourselves officially "on vacation". Any time things get stressful or we start feeling upset about something, we just sigh and say "ok... But I'm not going to let this bother me, because I'm on vacation." It's pretty corny, I know, but it helps put things in perspective, and actually has been working! LOL! It's funny how silly things like that can actually brighten your mood.
Diane:
Run, Lola, Run is one of my favorite films! (but I have to admit, I thought I was the only person in the world who'd seen it! No one ever knows what I'm talking about when I reference it.) And I just saw Minority Report on Sunday with a friend and absolutely loved it.

Dhiana:
I really liked your thoughts in your "eve" post. You may enjoy a book called "The five books of miriam" which I am reading now. It looks at the five books of Moses from a female perspective, and attempts to give voices to all the women of the old testament. It's an easy read, one you can put down and pick up almost whenever you feel like it, and even a little humorous at times, but I'm enjoying the feminist perspective a lot.

Ange:
Couldn't possibly be offended, after all, we're the ones who started calling you June in the first place! Glad to know your real name, though. I'll have to think more about this reincarnation business and get back to you... but for now I'd better get back to work.

Bye for now, and have a wondeful day.
Love and Blessings,
Megan
p.s. Paul-- thank you for the suggestions, I have checked out "seth speaks" and also "jonathan livingston seagull". . . I work in a library, so I really appreciate the suggestions: they give me something to look for on my breaks!
My, this is turning into a bit of a book club, isn't it? :)

"it doesn't matter if you're on the right track. you'll still get run over if you don't keep moving."

"shut up and dance."

Here's one for ya Mildred:

"When faced with two evils, pick the one you haven't tried yet!"

AND one for the poor souls of Glascow:

"Always yield to temptation - Because it may not pass your way again."

From the
"Succulent Wild Woman"

Hi everyone,
I am sorry I am mixing in your discussions but they are really elevating and deep and this is a rare commodity these days.
My thoughts on reincarnation and suffering in this life are these. I don´t know if there is such a thing as reincarnation, but I don`t believe that we spend our lived paying for something we might have done in a past life. Everyone, especially the Jews have asked themselves this questions frequently: Why do good people suffer?
I actually like the Bhuddist approach to that question: They say that only pain can bring about personal growth. And growing, becoming a better, more complete human being is a great part in fulfilling your destiny in life. Anything that happens to you, every pain, every suffering, every tear you cry, will help you prepare for something yet to come. Nothing is done in vain, no suffering and no joy. In pain,more strongly than in joy, you see who you really are, what you need, and what you can give to other people. That`s why the pain is inevitable. ( Sorry, my English is a bit rocky)
So don´t ask yourself why you have to suffer, but think of how it is going to make you grow and how you are becoming a richer, wiser person as a result of it. And, and this is most important, without the pain, how could we possibly enjoy and value the happiness in life?
What do you think, Ange?
Take good care of yourselves
Franzi
PS I am so thankful somebody knows Run Lola run, since it was a film made in my country.... lol

Hi Franzi

Thanks for the comments.

I am a very black and white thinker but I'm working on discovering the grey areas.

For some reason I cannot accept what the majority seem to be able to. I have heard and understand the thinking behind the platitude: without pain you won't understand joy. I get it but I don't agree with it. Why does it have to be that way? I have so many questions that sometimes I feel like a four year old not a thirty four year old.

Who decided that this was the way life should be and who were they to decide? Why can't we experience joy with an understanding that there is an opposite extreme without having to experience that extreme. I'm not saying I want life easy - no-one said life would be easy, but why does it have to be so bloody hard all the time.

I had a heated discussion once with a psychiatrist (I think psychologists make much more sense by the way) and we eventually agreed that there are only moments of happiness in life. It is not a state that can be achieved and maintained only temporarily achieved. I wonder if I am fighting a pointless fight but something inside me won't relent. I'm really looking forward to reading Conversations with God. I have always decided that if He/She does exist and if I get at least an interview to get in upstairs there's lots of things I would love cleared up.

That's partly why I study psychology. The more I learn the more tangible reasons I have for peopl behaving in particular ways. I don't condone but I can understand socio-psychopathic tendencies. Psychology is practical, life infers faith!

Anyway I didn't want to rant and I am.

Ange

Jozielee,

that's my problem. I'm sending this stuff to agents and they're the ones saying they're too busy to take on new clients. Therefore it doesn't get out to the publishers. There is such a frustration in knowing you have a product that people would enjoy and not being able to get it out to the masses. I'm sure it's the same as when you're trying to get an audition for a part knowing you'd kick major butt. I believe in myself and what I have to offer. I just need to get people to take notice.

Good thing I'm like the Energizer Bunny. I keep going and going and going...

kl

Sarah, I agree Eve was entrapped! Love your thinking.

Dhiane, I read your post twice but I am but a bloke and will need to read it a few times more. But I quiet like walking aroung (the house) in my good and evil suit. I know this is tooooo much info (forget about the undie question)all my family dont mind a stroll aroung the lounge dressed the way we arrived....so where does that leave us again??? In or out of the garden....Ah the garden is a nice place to stroll on occassion - mostly warm nights:)

Welcome to Ange - a very beautiful poem, we are all gald to meet you.

Welcome to Franziska, you are more than welcome to mix in our conversations, we look forward to it!

Megan, I like your semi-permanent state of "vacation." Sometimes we have to psych ourselves into understanding that we can't take anything too seriously.

Kay Lynne, I'm not connected to the publishing world, but if I come up with any brilliant ideas to help you, I'll let you know.

Kathy, I liked your quotes also.

Franziska, you have a beautiful name and a better grasp of English than many. I like independent films but I don't get to see them often enough. Run Lola Run was one of the best I've seen. Franka Potente was great in that and in Minority Report. We need to ask the universe for more films with her and more films with Paul. Hmmm, maybe both in one film. Okay, Charlie, is there a place for Franka in your script?

Ange, Gary Zukav (Seat of the Soul) says that karma is about cause and effect, not retribution. "It is an imbalance of energy that is in the process of becoming balanced. That balancing of energy does not always occur within the span of a single lifetime. The karma of your soul is created and balanced by the activities of its many personalities, including you.... For example, a personality that takes advantage of others creates an imbalance of energy that must be righted by the experience of being taken advantage of by other people. If that person does not understand that the experience of being taken advantage of by others is the effect of a previous cause, and that this experience is bringing to completion an impersonal process, it will react from a personal point of view rather than from the point of view of its soul." (In reacting without conscious awareness of this principal, we continue to create a karmic debt. So the point is to become more conscious of our intent and actions so that we can chose to create a better reality.) As I mentioned in my latest comment to Paul's "Choices" post, karma is not an issue of retribution. We may also experience hardships because our soul has chosen to embody to help others with lessons. One might volunteer to enter this life with a severe handicap in order to help strengthen another and lead the other to a life of action.

This brings me back to Run Lola Run. It seems to me that by the last version the heroine responds more consciously. In making mindful choices and with good intent, synchronicity occurs and a good outcome ensues. Maybe I'm being simplistic about this, but I know that when I'm focused and my intent is good, things fall into place and resources are there when I need them.

Okay. I'm done.

Paul, nice dodge on the undies question.

And the reason you had to read my post twice is because, for lengths' sake, I had to really abbeviate the proper telling of the story. Here is the link:

http://www.paganlibrary.com/fundies/other_people.php

Oberon tells it in a VERY palatable fashion, and I think, if anything else, you'll just enjoy the entertainment factor.

"All Acts of Love and Pleasure Are My Rituals",
Dhiana

A correction to my post last night.. Franka Potente was in the film "The Bourne Identity", not "Minority Report".

Dear Ange and dear all,

I agree with you that the idea of pain to see pleasure is very hard to accept. And I also agree that life cannot be all about pain. I think this particular piece of wisdom only helps when you need to get over a tough time, with better times to come, like eg the death of a loved person or the loss of a true love. But you shouldn´t have to feel pain all the time, life is not all pain.
Yes, people say you need to know shadow to see light, but it works the other way around, too.If you don`t know the light, you will find it hard to overcome the shadows.
I don`t know if I´m right, but it seems to me that happiness, or maybe being content, is also a matter of personal attitude. Like with many things in life you have to want to find it, see it in order for it to be real. Some people are afraid of happiness and they will probably never find it. It´s like with the talk about true love. My mother keeps telling me there is no such thing as true love when you reach a certain age. But I disagree. The world is what you bring to it. (Does that make sense?) If you want to find it you have a good chance of finding it. And I am a strong believer in love and happiness. But the secret is not to set your standards of happiness too high. If you have the ability to find happiness and beauty in the small things, like the smell of the wind, the sun, beautiful music or the athmosphere during a thunder strom, then you will find happiness.
But it is true, happiness is a matter of moments. But that doesn not mean that in all the other moments you must be unhappy. I think we store the happy moments for bad times.
But I am only 26, maybe I need to grow older to get less enthusiastic about life, who knows.

Diane, I am just wondering: What is it about Franka Potente you like? She is so typically German that non of us Germans are excited about her. It will be interesting to learn your point of view.Where are you from?
Thanks for letting me join this conversation.
TAke care
Franziska

Franziska, Iife is not all pain, as you say. By finding pleasure in the small things, we bring ourselves back to living in the moment. We will continue to see more beauty as we spend less time ruminating about our past or projecting our future based on our past. In a prior post, I quoted Wayne W. Dyer's book "You'll See It When You Believe It." Excellent book and much in keeping with your thoughts. (The Mac Wilson song "Stop and Smell the Roses" is also playing in my head.)

I was stunned by your mother's comment that "there is no such thing as true love after you reach a certain age." Stunned, I suppose, because, in the more difficult moments early in my marriage, I wondered if that might be so. During that time, I was struggling with what I thought love was supposed to be, finding out how much work it takes to keep a relationship alive, and finding out out who I was independently and in relation to my spouse.

Over the years, I discovered that relationships have ups and downs, connects and disconnects. Not all relationships are meant to last, but we can't hope to get to something meaningful, if we can't weather the dips.

After 18 years of marriage, I'd reverse your mother's statement and say that there is no such thing as true love UNTIL you reach a certain age. Romantic love is based on finding the 'right person'. It involves illusions, illusions about the other and ourselves. No one can sustain the illusion for long. True love is not something you find, it's what you create when you get rid of your 'personal baggage' and expectations and care about another person— warts and all— as much as you care about yourself.

You are much more perceptive and wise than I was at your age. I hope you never lose your enthusiasm!

About Franka... First, she's a good actress. Intelligent choices, simple approach, nuanced. Second, she's attractive, but not stunningly beautiful. She's real. It seems to me that with few exceptions, leading ladies in the U.S. are fairly interchangable. Anyone who doesn't fit the profile is a character actress. Third, she seems like the quintessential European woman by which I mean that she's direct, confident, cultured, and natural. I'm American, born and raised in Florida, living in California now for more than half of my life. In our travels abroad (not yet to the continent), some people think we're Canadian. To which my automatic response is often, "Oh, yeh, eh!

Be well and happy.

Diane

hello all!! I've been out of the loop this last month or so, and WOW!!! I've missed a lot of great/deep/soul stuff.... I don't even know where/how to start... Ange, welcome to the site! I'm sorry to hear that you've been going through such a dark time of late; the only thing worse than depression is feeling like it will never end.... hang in there.... and I'm glad that you've decided to jump in & be a part of what makes this site so great: people being perfectly imperfect and boldly honest about it. There is a great book about Karma/reincarnation written by Gary Zukov called The Seat of the Soul. I highly recommend it, especially if you are seeking clarification or insight into that particular spiritual/soul dynamic.... Paul, every time you share something with us about your brother I find myself deeply moved (sometimes to tears) and a part of me resonates with a desire to share the things I have learned and struggled with since my sister's death almost 9 years ago....but it seems so presumptuous somehow, and I'm hopeless when it comes to making "a long story short" so in the end I say nothing.... my sister was 18, in college pursuing her goals of becoming a professional musician/composer, and unofficially engaged to her highschool sweetheart (my step-brother's best friend since 3rd grade) when she drowned in the King's river while hiking w/some friends... her body was never recovered. At the time her boyfriend was on a submarine in the middle of the Pacific and had to be airlifted by helicopter to the military base in San Pedro to receive the news that the girl he loved was missing and presumed dead. He didn't speak to a soul for 3 days.... the first sounds he uttered were to me, and they were sobs of such pain that my own grief was held suspended for a moment in the silence of 3 days..... what 9 years has taught me is that "time" doesn't "heal" anything, it's just giving love room to work... that GRIEF subsides, changes, goes away-- the LOSS is always there.... that it will smack you upside the head & heart in the most unexpected of moments.... and that all those moments when something has made us laugh UNTIL we cry is the creator's way of preparing us for those moments when our loss demands that in order to honor our memories, love and "I wishes..." we must laugh WHILE we cry.... on May 18th, surrounded by family and friends (me & my family among them), on the very same base where his heart was broken 9 years ago, my friend was married to a beautiful & wonderful woman who shares not only my sister's name, but her fearlessness & generousity of spirit as well..... the minister who flew in from Oregon to perform the ceremony is the same woman who held his hand while his parents told him of my sister's death, and the same woman who cried while she performed my sister's funeral... on the bride's side of the aisle there were tears of joy... on the groom's--tears of joy, and of the loss contained, honored & transcended in that joy... tears of "I wishes" finally fulfilled... and the "I wishes" that are never to be.... I don't know how long ago your brother died, but I DO know that while you will ALWAYS miss him, missing him won't ALWAYS hurt, and never quite the way it does now... I apologize for rambling on forever, I don't even know that I have any particular purpose for "sharing" all of that other than acknowledging our common humanity and the process that is grieving in the midst of the mystery & beauty of this thing we call life.... the "bumper sticker" I'd like to leave you all with is this: "character is not made of sunshine and roses. Like steel it is forged in fire, between hammer and anvil."

Favorite Bumber sticker:

"You! Out of the Gene Pool!"

HELLO PAUL JUST THOUGHT I'D LET YOU KNOW THAT YOU ARE MY FAVORITE ACTOR, I LOVE YOUR WORK AND I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU IN ANOTHER MOVIE, I LOVE YOU!!!!!!!

LOTS OF LOVE FROM TEXAS,
MONICA

booooho, Germany has just lost. Well, I know it is unimportant, but hey. I just felt like saying, even though I am not a big football fan( or soccer, as you call it incorrectly :-) I have
marveled at the spirit of internationality in this
year´s world cup. Here in Bremen, Koreans, Senegaleses, Germans, American and many more set up a huge screen to watch all the games together, and they partied together. These moments are magical, how many times in your life will you see that? It makes me happy. Just thought, I´d say that. Hope you are all well.
Franziska

I haven't been able to keep up on the world cup this year-- despite the fact that almost everyone in the states plays soccer (oops! football!) as a kid, the tv powers that be over here seem to think that nobody would want to watch it.... all the games were broadcast between 11:30pm & 2:00am (Pacific Time)....which is great if your an insomniac, or predisposed night-owl....but for folks like me--(a late night is staying up to watch Letterman)-- it made it pretty hard to follow.... somebody mentioned that CA tends to have more vanity plates than bumper stickers.... overall that tends to be true, but I think it really depends on where in CA you are... I live in Sacramento and being a political town seems to breed vanity plates & bumper stickers in pretty equal measure; vanity plates: the politicians & upscale professionals who schmooze them... bumper stickers: just about everyone else (epscially in mid/downtown, which is considered the "artists'/"bohemian" district)..... I saw a great one the other day--"The moral majority is neither".... Sarah, I really appreciate your thinking on the whole "Eve" thing... and not just that she was entrapped, but your conviction that a person's "arguement" is only as effective as it is accurate..... personally, the whole concept of "original sin" has never sat right with me, not even when I was a little girl going to church with my family.... I think my parents are at times somewhat sorry that they raised us to be independent thinkers, 'cuz there has not been a peaceful discussion about religion in my family for years!!! even vague discussions about "spirituality" can become passionate debates within minutes.... I had thought that the different spiritual paths taken by my family over the last few years had a great deal to do with my sister's death and our individual ways of making peace with it.... and that's part of it, certainly, but last xmas my brothers & cousin confided that they just don't get the whole "original sin" thing either.... my poor dad, proud of our minds--praying for our souls..... I'm still in the process of defining and clarifying just what it is about the whole concept that I've never bought into....anyone else have any thoughts on the subject?

I am a pastor´s daughter, raised protestant, and as to the subject of original sin and the story of creation, here are my thoughts:Tradtitionally the story of creation has been understood as a metaphor that goods children turned away from God and had to be punished. OF course, it was the women/witch who made the poor fellow Adam eat the apple. He didn´t want to, of course, but the evil female made him loose God`s favour.
To me ( and I can get really emotional about this, too :-)
the story is something completely different:
In the beginning Adam and Eva, who were once one,( God made Eve from the "side" of Adam, meaning Eve is half Adam, Adam is half of Eve)("rib" by the way was a mistranslation) lived in a state of perpetual bliss, because they didn`t know anything. They has no concept of right or wrong, no concept of suffering or death. They did not know possiblities or choices or carrying the responsibilites for them. And, as we all know, not knowing much is a lot easier than knowing.
But in the Garden Eden grew the tree of knowledge, on it the fruit of knowledge, the apple.( Ever wondered about the "BIG APPLE"?)
In my scenario the women is not the temptress, she is the one who starts to understand that there is more to life. And in her superior understanding she wants to share her knowledge with the male. She gives him the great gift of knowledge. She shows him that there is a right to choose, there is pain and suffering and great joy, and, most of all, there is death. I am absolutely sure, God intended for them to find this knowledge. Henceforth HE had granted them the right to live with the knowledge of death, and therefore with the knowledge of the great gift of life. Had they not known death, they would have never appreciated life. Or God, for that matter. So they became AWARE.
The fact that Adam had to work the soil and Eve had to give birth at great suffering is not a punnishment, it is a gift. And a gift that was vital to cherishing the earth and all of creation. So, by showing us death and hardship God planted joy in our hearts and the ability to experience happiness with our minds and senses wide awake.
Does this make sense?
So, in my understanding, what other´s call original sin is really a blessing we received from God, but one, that doesn´t come easily.
There is also another way of arguing: If God only exists because we believe in him, then by making us aware of his greatness , he was really ensuring his own survival.

Anyway, our task in life seems to be to always remember the great gift of life which was given to us and to cherish and help all other life around us. Because the beauty of life, the joy we feel when we feel connected, the miracales of nature, that`S God.
( Jesus, I sound like a preacher myself- Amen)
Here is my word on Monday morning.
Hope you are all well.
Franziska

To Franziska: That's the closest interpretation of Genesis 3 that I've heard so far! :) I believe that Adam is ultimately (though not solely) held responsible for the sins of both because he stood by while the serpent (not God) tempted Eve and didn't do/say anything. His charge from God was to take care of her, to be "the head" of the family (all feminism aside), to respect her and to treat her with the same love the Christ has for the church/his body. When Adam stood by and watched, then ate of the fruit with her, he incurred the greater wrath from God because it was not him that was deceived by the serpent, but Eve. He knew the command of God and disobeyed. Interesting, too that if you read this passage how the "victim" status started immediately after sin entered the world. God questions Adam about the incident, Adam blames Eve ("It's not MY fault, the woman you put here with me..."), who in turn blames the serpent. Not only was this the beginning of sin, but the end of personal responsibility.

How different would things be in our lives today if we stopped blaming other people for our troubles (our parents, the police, our ex, the "industry") and simply took responsibility for our own choices, accepted the consequences, learned from them and moved on? But, then, where would be the need for God's grace and mercy?

I agree that this is a gift. God is greatest when we are at our weakest. 2 Corinthians 12:9. It is God's gift to us that we are here.

How amazed we will be when we get to heaven and find the truth of the scriptures standing in front of us and how wrong some of the "translations" have been !!

RIGHT ON KELLI !!!!!!!!!

Could not have put it any better myself. I was praying to have something intelligent to say along those very lines!! God is SO AWESOME!!!
I was even looking for the verse!!! Thankx!!!!

Margie

Rachel, thank you for sharing the story of your sister's passing. I agree with you that the loss is never forgotten, but our pain can be transcended if we can hang in there. I still weep when I watch certain movies that remind me of my mother and her passing; but I also shed tears of joy when I see my children do something that reminds me of her. I've seen families torn apart over the loss of a child as when the brother of one of my childhood friends drowned while SCUBA diving and when a toddler I occasionally babysat drowned in the family pool while I was at school. I've also seen parents cling to each other and their faith in a higher power and create an outreach project promoting safe driving after two of their three sons (both 'teens) were killed in a horrible auto accident. I'm glad that you could all rejoice at the wedding.

Sorry, Kelli. I tend to agree with Franziska on the Garden of Eden story and the concept of original sin. I don't believe that either sex is superior to the other (although there are some really funny jokes about the superior talents of females). Neither do I appreciate the interpretations that paint women are brainless, lying twits— a distortion that many men in our world still use as an excuse to keep women "in their place".

It seems to me that the serpent-as-devil version gives rise to people assigning blame for their choices to an outside "evil'" influence. You know that Flip Wilson line, "The devil made me do it." Likewise, there's the issue of assigning responsibility for our happiness to a God who may or may not bestown it upon us if we tick him off. I believe that we're all co-creators with that Higher Power and that our our sin is really when we forget who we are and create hell for ourselves and others.

Ange, you wrote that in your debate with a psychiatrist you reached agreement that there are only moments of happiness, that it's not a state that can be achieved and maintained. I recommend His Holiness the Dalai Lama's book "The Art of Happiness: A Guide for Living".

I was out in my yard this morning clipping off dead flowers, giving the gardens a deep watering, and digging up weeds from the lawn and gardens. We re-landscaped last year after putting in a pool and it took me quite a while to design the gardens and select the plants in order to create what is now a sanctuary to me and my family and friends. But sanctuaries come with a price and now I'm finding that it takes a significant amount of my time to maintain it all. So I'm starting to reduce my expectations and streamline my efforts, while still maintaining an atmosphere that feeds my soul.

As I worked this morning, I considered aspects of gardening as metaphor. There have been times when I've ignored the problem and allowed the weeds to get out of control. Then it has taken extraordinary effort and some harsh treatment to get the upper hand. But if I keep my eyes open and I'm vigilant about removing them when I see them, my yard can stay healthy. Likewise, I used to let negative thoughts infiltrate my mind like crabgrass. Once they took hold, I had to trace them back to their roots (not blaming, but sourcing) and dig them out as best I could. I have several friends who belong to AA and I used to wonder why in recovery they often had to remind themselves of their disease. This morning, it occured to me that even though we get control of the weeds, we're never fully rid of them. So whether it's addiction to a substance or fixation with negative thoughts, we always have to be aware of our proclivities and remain vigilant. If we resent the process that is required by that vigilance, we'll maintain or increase our unhappiness. If we can use the process as an opportunity for mindfulness, we can spend more of our time living happily.

I enjoy taking care of my yard as much as I enjoy just relaxing in it. Now if I could just reach that same level of satisfaction inside my house...!

Diane

Tammi---good sticker, I love it.

Dhiana (interesting Yaweh bit...will read up...cultural literacy is tres-importante.)

Paul....there you go again...*blush*

Speaking of that little admission...another bumper sticker...

"nobody knows I am naked right now"

Dhiana I was gonna put the sticker about everyone looking busy on the site...it made me laugh out loud....I was a bit of a chicken.

Oh, I forgot one of my all-time favorites....

"support mental health, OR I'LL KILL YOU!"

Speaking of mental health...I got my Prozac today! Yea! Woo hoo! Watch out world, I'm gettin outta bed!

I am off like I a prom dress...
take care, all
sarah

P.S. If you like my latin stylings...I have a T-shirt I made that reads "Malum in Se" (inherently evil)....Its a term that shows up in court opinions now and then...thought it was funny for the law school crowd.

You are all so prolific, such a joy to read. Totally enjoying the discussion on original sin.

Kay Lynne . . . hang in there, and start a new project. That might take your mind off the publishers as you continue to circulate your manuscript.

Saw Minority Report this weekend. A fantastic film based on a 1950 short story from the author of Blade Runner. Interesting from where inspiration arises.

Hello Paul,
This is my first visit to your web site. I watched Strictly Ballroom again yesterday, which motivated me to look you up. I have watched this movie countless times, and it always inspires me. The core of the movie is not to live a life in fear. With courage and self-confidence you can attain a full life.

I'm sorry about your brother's passing; I have also lost a love one to suicide, my mother. I have been diagnosed with manic depression, medication helps reduce my highs and lows, but it is not a cure. Mental illness is not easy to detect because most of the time one will put on an act and pretend that everything is okay.

It has got to be kinda weird for strangers to write and tell you whatever, I certainly feel strange writing you. Oh well, I just felt a desire to. On another note, I read that you don’t like to reference S-Ballroom, but damn, you were hot in this film. Also, the actor in the movie that taught you the “new steps”, was also fantastic.

Good Luck on all your endeavors.

Best Regards,
C B M
USA

Holy smoking Hannah, folks...I am soooo proud of you all (Yes, I know...like I'm 100 or something) that we can DISCUSS these topics without flaming the bejeepers out of each other or the individual thought-pattern itself. (I just had to leave the other forum I was on due to idiots and hotheads...and that was a POULTRY forum for the love of Pete--or Paul!...arguing over chickens, honestly...)

Anyway, I really enjoyed Diane's gardening metaphor, and as an AVID gardner (read: Will Stand With Dripping Hose On Feet Until Way Late For Work) I do my best, and probably most profoundly simplistic, thinking out there. But I find that my personality is most reflected in my garden and gardening style...I scrounge what I can, make the best of the soil/situation, don't cry too hard over losses--ok, when the rooster got out and trampled, then dessimated, my never-grown-before Swiss Chard, yeah, then he got a boot in the tail feathers--I give as much time as I can to it, and everything comes out very well in the end. It's not gracing the cover of "Better Homes and Gardens", but that's ok. (No one wants to open a glossy magazine and see me standing in whatever-I-happened -to- fall-asleep-in-the- night-before, arse over teakettle picking weeds and coaxing seedlings to ignore the 95 degree heat and just GROW, dammit! ;-)

Incidentally, June in upstate New York can be either 50 degrees or 100. It's working on 100 today. So I came in to work to sponge off their air conditioning, get a few things done before leaving for vacation to the Adirondacks tomorrow, and stop in and chat with my prolific e-friends.

We'll be imbibing a Canadian product called "Brodor X-tra Stock" that only a teen growing up in Northern New York (10 min's from the border)has an appreciation for. That first crack of the cap brings back SO many (stupidly and insanely dangerous) memories...as an "adult" I can appreciate the memories. And be thankful I'm still here to appreciate them! I'm sure the catapulting question will arise at some point as we lounge on my grandfather's beach (got the "Miriam" book to take with me, THANKs for the suggestion, Megan).

Well, off to start the celebration of our country's "Independence". (HA! Don't get me started on THAT one...)

Have a wonderful week everyone. Paul...how's that cookbook coming along? Since I'll be spending the wknd with my sis-in-law (aka: Martha Stewart, Jr.) it'd be nice to either gift it to her or just slam her with some great recipes out of it. That's ok. We'll wait. ;-)

Dhiana

Hey all,

I too love gardening...however I suffered a minor setback last week. As I live with my parents (that sounds SO pathetic) my only time for ME is when I am gardening. I figured I would have to protect my little patch from invaders of the animal and insect type but as it turns out I was not prepared for my father. I had planted some Alyssa (from the seed) and was excited by the little buds popping up here and there. Well, good ole dad thought he'd do me a favor and weed a bit taking nearly every Alyssa bud out...ho hum such as life.

I spent today's 100 degree heat painting a fense ( I do really adore menial, time consuming tasks like cleaning etc...seriously). I also watched my first non-strictly ballroom Paul Mercurio film today. I promised to watch some a couple of weeks ago and was thwarted by opportunity. Tonight I watched Exit to Eden....

Paul...didn't blush as much as I thought I would...I do have two words: nice....accent. Oh I also was keen on the butter-cinnamon mustache...very, um, thought provoking...maybe one day I will give the croissante idea a go...then again, lately it seems as if the closest I will come to a stick of butter is gnawing on it while standing in front of the refrigerator with the door open late at night (note: IN PAJAMAS unlike you strange Aussies.....;)

anyway, off to bed,
Seraph

P.S. Paul..please do not be offended by my teasing comments...they are in jest, I promise.

Welcome C B Mayce. Thanks for taking the time to say gidday and I am sure I speak for all of us here - we look forward to hearing from you any time.

Diane - couldnt agree with you more. Some of my first posts here pre comments days were about my garden and my efforts tending it. Just thought of a title for a book - "A gardening guide to the soul" The idea of tending to the garden of our soul as we tend, or not, to our gardens is very practical. Sometimes because we live we forget to care, until things get too far out of shape and we might not be able to clean it up.

For me when I need to get back in touch with some of the more simple pleasures in life I cook. I make bread, I make sausages and I make beer then I eat it - in creating something I also sustain myself (and friends and family) with that creativity. I also love to walk, enjoying the smells from the myriad gardens I pass by. I take in the sights and sounds, smile at passers by - it's sad when some of them cant smile back, too scared to share a simple smile. Not sure why I rambled on to that subject????? but there is a certain peace in tending the soul, a happiness in a small thing.

Sarah I am happy to know you are still blushing! And I loved the bumper sticker - "nobody knows i'm naked right now" Kind of hard to wear it on a T-shirt though.

As for Adam and Eve....I am of the opinion that we only exist so that the higher power/all that is/god my get to know him/her/it's self. I like Franziska's telling as it looks not at the evil but the good and celebrates life. It is a positive affirming of the act of living which encompasses joy and pain, love and hate, fear and fearlessnes.

It also advocates that we take responsibilty for ourselves, our actions and our thoughts thereby allowing full and free choice in our lives. It is our choice to be happy or sad not gods, it is our choice to live or die not gods.

I choose to not give my power away but to claim it as intended and use it to understand and explore my own soul, my own path, to help and nourish others where and when I can. I am as you all are a co-creator of this world whether you know it or not and whether you choose to positively affirm your power to make the world a better place or not.

Because of this I do not understand people saying they have no choices in life as it has already been planned out by god. Nor do understand the idea of being dependant on god giving out happiness when he feels the inclination or not. For this reason I do not understand or follow any religion. I believe in the soul, the spirit, the light. I believe in claiming the positive power of the universe and through it and with it, CREATE.

Paul,

I find it amazing that you take the time to read all of our soul-searching comments. As for religions or the following of it I have always believed that the concept of God is something we don´t have to put a label on, meaning, we don´t have to join a certain religion or entertain a certain picture of a God to realise something "godly" in this world. I think we all have the feeling that there is something out there we cannot explain, be it nature, or love , or the feeling we get when we are in this sort of emotional trance when we sing or dance.
And we don´t need to call this God, but it´s all the same anyway, I believe.
I love the concept of the Aboriginal people that they sung the world into existence. I think this thought captures something very essential about us. We create the world that we live in, we create it by singing and loving and laughing and sharing. We can also dance the world into existance. OR write. OF course we can also create something bad, but we have the choice.
I, eg, have danced since I was 5 years old. And still today, every time I dance, be it for other people or myself, I fell something building inside me and around me, something like an aura.I forget space and time, I start growing into my own movements and my body turns into something spiritual, something very fertile. I can´t explain it, it feels like while I dance I give birth to something. And when I finnish, I feel exhausted, but somehow more complete than before. And when I look at the space that I have used to dance in I swear I can feel a change. Because the air is humming.
I think that is creation.
And everyone has the powers to create, but some peple haven´t found their gift yet, since everyone creates differently. I am thankful that I found my "power". It makes me more complete.

Take care of yourself
Franziska

p: i like the way you see the world --- powerful and tender, neither a burden nor drippingly romantic. very yin-yang.

when you know what's right but lose your way, what do you prescribe?? i can't remember the last time i cooked a meal or gardened. everything seems so heavy right now, dark and cloudy.

i've been reading everyone's posts for a couple months now. an admiring voyeur...not a stalker, as that might have sounded. i dig your closeness to each other. cheers to you.

Hi Paul..and all.

This site has gotten pretty heavy. Paul, I just have to say one more thing. I finished viewing Joseph the other day. The dialog was terrible, but I bet it sure was fun working with such talented people, ie Ben Kingsley. I can't believe that after playing such a role, that the focus of Joseph's life would just role right over your head. You seem much to smart for that. Joseph had a lot of choices. He could have curled up and died in the pit. He could have been a real jerk in the prison and been executed. He could have had Potipher's wife. He chose to follow God. And because of his choice and his faithfulness, God blessed everything he touched. What a wonderful lesson. I don't think any of us have faced near the hardships he did, all be it in a different way. Nuff said.
I'm glad that you responded to the fun things that you do... gardening, or at least enjoying it. Cooking, baking, beer. Sounds fun.
I'm told that Austraila is quite like America. Do you listen to American music as you are driving on the wrong side of the road? Do you bake deserts or just main dishes? Do you have a Digerydoo? ( did I spell that right?) If you do, do you know how to play it? Do you have a kangaroo skin? Just some silly questions to lighten things up a bit. Personally I hate gardening. It's too dirty. My husband likes it though. I sure am glad. What kind of movies do you like to watch. You seem to be a kind of Jack of all trades. Movie star, beer meister, baker, talk show host, ditch digger, ballet teacher. I bet the list could go on and on...
I will continue to pray for you...
Thankx.

Margie

For Dhiana, for some reason I thought you might like this particular bumper sticker:

"the goddess is alive and magic is afoot"

(don't ask me why...I just figured it would resonate with you)

Paul you say that you you do not choose to give your power away. Absent a deeper discussion about your power to delegate your power, I offer this fun tid-bit (you may have already heard it):

There are two secrets to power and success in life...
1. Never let anyone know how much or what you know and,

Well, anyway...your thoughts about being the creator of the world (we all are, I belive you postulated)....It is funny you should put forth that idea...my belief system kinda centers around a similar idea...(here come the rotten tomatoes)....I think that all living things make up and create the "higher power." Some people call it a collective soul...I can't say I subscribe to ANY previously written philosophy pertaining to religion or God...but some weird Frankenstein's monster version of them all.
I do agree with you that we all have a certain power. We have the power to use our life to affect other people and to harness the treatment of ourselves by other people in the most effective manner. Afterall, this is what life boils down to...trying like hell to be a good person, enjoying others who seek to do the same, and working around and never resenting those who choose not to do the same. There are always mixtures and balances in people, in ourselves, but we always just do what we can to find our basic, true, personality. Again, catch me on a day when my alter-ego "Hobbes" is writing, you might find me singing a different tune.

Wow, that posting is a tad deeper than usual...enjoy deciphering my run-on sentences and MLA-illegal use of elipses (I have already recieved citations from them twice since I have been posting here).

Can you believe I misspelled "fence" in my last post?....oops

Love to you all,
Rousseau

From a recent e-mail received:
Everyone has talent. What is rare is the Courage to follow the talent to the dark place where it leads. (Erica Jong)

And to all of the US group on here Happy 4th Of July. I'm off to a High School Reunion of sorts.
It was a small farming community school and we only get together every 3 years. It has been 34 years since I graduated from High School. We have already lost 2 out of our class of 12. Of the remaining 10 I only know of the whereabouts of 4 others. I have found it astounding how 8 of us could have gone to school together for 8 of the 12 years and to lose contact with each other so quickly. Just rambling.
Paul: I've received my personal copies of Back of Beyond, Joseph and Dark Planet. Haven't been able to get my husband to watch any of the three. He hasn't said as much, but I think that he thinks they are what we in the US call "Chick Flicks".
Having seen all three at least twice, and reading your comments on this site, I don't understand how any film maker could stereotype you because of your role in SB. But, you are definitely selecting roles that reflect your conscience, your spirituality, and of course your sensuality.
Continue to be picky, do the movies that lets your soul show thru....
LOL :)

Hey Texas, glad you have been reading and glad you feel like contributing. My first thought to your question .... "when you know what's right but lose your way, "....is question what you are calling "right". Maybe in knowing something already you are not allowing yourself to see through, around, under, over or even what lies right in front of you. We have all gone looking for something ie wallet or keys, only to find it is not where they should be. You then go on a long and futile search to find it, looking all over the house, the car through all your dirty clothes and finally through the pockets of the clean clothes hanging on the clothes line drying in the sun. Nothing! Then you go back and look at where they should be, and are not, only to see them 8 inches to the left or the right!!!!! When we think we know something it may blind us to what we need to know. When we think we know something we will go to extrodinary lengths to prove that we know it sometimes even suspecting it may be wrong.

Losing your way is part of the journey, part of learning, part of knowing things. It is good for you if you can find something that brings you back to you - meditation, music, cooking, tai chi, writing,gardening, walking...... You only lose your way if you lose your sense of you - mind you dont ask me if I know me but I do know where to find that part of me which steadies me as I wander about on my journey.

Margie, Joseph had and made lots of choices and lived his life accordingly as I do mine. I'm not sure if I missed anything. Lucky for me God has never forsaken me! Unlike Joseph I dont blame him/her/it for my woes or problems or failings nor to I blame it/her/him for my successes.

Sarah as always... I work on the opposite idea re your quote,perhaps to my detriment. I share as much of me as I can, my knowledge mmm - better put as life experience... and my power. Why? I am not sure but I believe it contributes to the whole pool of positive energy out there. To share is to give to not share is to take.

Hey all,

Since this is all so heavy, let me contribute to everyone´s confusion. I was wondering lately, how our upbringing affects our personality. Meaning, in the never-ending search for youself, the essence of you, how strongly do you think we are influenced by the places we grew up in, by the things we heard, saw, ate etc. Is it possible to take all of this away when looking for ourselves?
I am just wondering, because I seem to love to live in the past. I love visting places I lived in and people I used to know. Is that healthy or not. How do you do it? Paul, do you ever go to Swan Hill to reconnect with your past?
And everyone else, what do you think about the need for childhoof memories?
love to you all
Franziska

Hey all,

Since this is all so heavy, let me contribute to everyone´s confusion. I was wondering lately, how our upbringing affects our personality. Meaning, in the never-ending search for youself, the essence of you, how strongly do you think we are influenced by the places we grew up in, by the things we heard, saw, ate etc. Is it possible to take all of this away when looking for ourselves?
I am just wondering, because I seem to love to live in the past. I love visting places I lived in and people I used to know. Is that healthy or not. How do you do it? Paul, do you ever go to Swan Hill to reconnect with your past?
And everyone else, what do you think about the need for childhoof memories?
love to you all
Franziska

Paul-

I posted that quote about power as a mere tid-bit...my dad told me about the quote once. It is never to be taken literally...just something to think about. I cannot imagine someone who shares absolutely nothing with others...I don't think that person exists. I personally feel as though I usually give too much...I wonder if people don't feel laden with my emotional honesty. (I was and, I guess, still am a touter of the belief that one should give give give). Oh, another reason I posted the quote was....I thought it was kinda funny...not belly laugh funny, not cheese shop sketch funny but chuckle worthy. I shall think twice next time...sorry.

You mentioned the pool of positive energy...did I mention something like that in my previous posts? I do not remember. If not, you are freakin me out, man! I won't go into details about why other than to say that I pondered mentioning my theory of positive and negative pools of energy in my last post and for the sake of any bored readers I cut it short. Hmm.... I think the wording "pool of positive energy" intrigues me the most...hmm.

Hobbes

hey all!
sorry it's been a couple of days, I was in the process of moving... but now thigs have settled down a bit... While packing and going through old things, I discovered this poem, which I thought you may all enjoy. Here it is, and happy fourth to all my fellow americans!
"Your Life Holds Unlimited Potential"
by Edmund O'Neill
*you have the ability to attain whatever you seek; within you is every potential you can imagine. Always aim higher than you believe you can reach. So often, you'll discover that when your talents are set free by your imagination, you can achieve any goal. If people offer their help or wisdom as you go through life, accept it gratefully. You can learn much from those who have gone before you. Never be afraid or hesitant to step off the accepted path and head in your own direction if your heart tells you that it's the right way for you. Always believe that you will ultimately succeed at whatever you do, and never forget the value of persistance, discipline, and determination. YOU ARE MEANT TO BE WHATEVER YOU DREAM OF BECOMING!*

Just a little thought for you all on a lovely Thursday.
Love and Cheers,
Megan

I am going to print the peom in very large print and put it in my office so that I am reminded every day of those wise words. Thanks Megan, hope the move went well!

Sarah, no need to appologise, absolutley no offence taken - I was just typing out loud as to how your words set my mind in motion. Rest assured if someone says something that upsets/raises intrigue or ire I will have my say as we all can and do! Wouldnt mind you putting the whole quote up there...or is that the joke...mmm could have gone over my head? Remember I am just a male!!! Pools of energy????I will have to go back over some previous posts.

Paul,

You're not just a male. You're an Alpha Male! :) May I digress from all seriousness for a moment--how DID you manage to end up being surrounded by all these incredibly well-versed, intelligent women? Is it that you're like a light to which we are all drawn? I can't imagine other men not being extremely envious of your position. You have a beautiful wife, great kids and fans who simply adore you. Must be nice to be king. (lol)

To everyone who has posted (including Paul) - Thanks! I don't have much time, as we are preparing to evacuate our home right now. I live in a little German town called New Braunfels, Texas. We are just north of San Antonio, and are experiecing severe flooding right now. This site has cheered me up today in spite of nature's fury. Keep us in your thoughts. I'll let you know as soon as I can how we fare. With the rain still coming down and not expected to stop for several days, we are in it for the long haul.

all of our thoughts and prayers are with you, Cammie. here's to a safe, and dry, return to your home.

Paul- glad you liked the poem... thought you might. Thanks, yes, the move went well. It's nice to be home with my family again for awhile before I move again (!) :)

Cammie- I really hope things work out for you in Texas. We have some family down there, and I know the situation has gotten pretty desperate. You are in all of our thoughts.
We also had a HORRIBLE flood here a few years back: had to keep reminding ourselves through the devestation that stuff is just stuff. What mattered was that we all survived it. My prayers are with you, and I hope things turn out well.

Peace,
Megan

A flood is horrible. We lost our house in a fire a couple of years back, so I know how it feels to run the risk of loosing everything. I think of you, too, hope all ends well.

Cammie,

We offered prayers for ya'll at temple services today. We're praying for the rain to end and for your safe and happy return home. I'm sure we'll hear more about the recovery efforts in the news, but if there is anything in particular those of us outside of Texas can do to help, please let us know.

Hola, everyone...Dhiana here, just back from vacation from the place in which I "grew up". (HA! Ya'd never know it from the midnight "good and evil suit" swims and the amount of loafing and fishing we did!) Oh dear, the loaves and the fish...I won't get biblical...I've only had one cup of java yet this am...

Paul, I shared some of yours and the others' insights while totally lounging on my grandfather's beach (he lugged the sand and built the morter wall, so by rights I think of it as "his" beach) and yet I felt reticent to reveal who you were. I mean, this is a public sight...anyone can come, read, add, and know. I just felt like protecting everyone's privacy. So now my mother refers to you as my "on-line actor friends". She thinks you're all actors. She's not dim, just in love, and only has time to hear what she wants before the conversation turns back to her "Rob".

ANYWAY, Sarah, yep--you got the vibe right...love that bumper sticker, but most people (present company excluded) have limited views and freak out if the see the word "Goddess" and think of "idol worship" etc. when actually, my view is that of the ying-yang...for the male energy there must be a "female" counterpart. (Hello...Virgin Mary!) Allright, I'll not open up that discussion again.

I bought this bumper sticker and put it on the back of the van while on vacation:

"Bloom where you are planted."

That pretty much sums it up..."Don't waste your life kavetching about things, just BE and DO!" All the other ones were pretty negative, or could have been misconstrued, but I DID really like this one "Get a taste of Religion--Lick a Witch."

The gardening metaphor and therapy...I was away from home for 6 days and the house sitter only watered ONCE! It was in the nineties!!! How could she? Didn't she SEE the helpless things leaning and pitching and wilting in front of her eyes? Couldn't she give the legless creatures an ounce of attention? Argh! Herbicidal maniac...

Regardless, Paul, your gardening for the soul book is SUCH a great idea...that someone else beat you to it. "Chicken Soup For The Gardener's Soul". So...get CRACKING on that cookbook, will ya? ;-) I am overrun with Hyssop, chives, and lemon basil, and not very much time to experiment (plus my husband is very much a meat and potatoes kind of guy..."fru-fru" cooking with herbs ain't his style, and I can't stand a plain piece of chicken slathered in barbie sauce) so...I'm awaiting the outcome of that project of yours.

Totally "on track" with you and the pool of energy, light concept.

Blessings to all...
Dhiana

Dear Paul,
You are right about the scene when you (as Joseph) get seduced by Potiphar's wife. That scene made me blush. The scene that made me warm inside was when you see your firstborn son. I was like, awww he's so cute.
Speaking of which, two days ago, on July 6, my boyfriend Kirk bought the movie Joseph for me as a birthday present. My birthday was two days ago. I hope to collect other bible movies.
I hope you are doing ok.

Sara

hello everyone. I haven't been here in a little while and look at all the wonderful things that have been said and going on between everyone! This site is just so positive and friendly. I just got back from Maine where my mother owns a B&B in Bass Harbor. If you have never been to Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island I highly suggest you visit someday. It brings tears to the eyes it is so beautiful. I can't tell you in words how magical a place it is. Maybe try going online to look for pictures because it's like heaven on earth. Mount Desert is one of the first places on the east coast to see the sunrise and when there are thunder storms on the island if you drive to the top of the mountain you are above the storm so the clouds below light up with the lightening. It takes your breath away. While I was there I saw two bald eagles, a red fox, several deer and a few red lobsters looking up at me from my plate. I have to take some time and read all that I have missed since I have been traveling. Hope everyone is doing well! Peace.

Hi Paul
Sorry to go back to the heavy stuff - well hopefully this isn't too heavy ...

But I’ve been reading all the amazing things you and everyone else have been writing over the last few weeks and I’ve been thinking a lot about all the different views and advice. And I have to confess there’s so many words of wisdom written on these pages that I’m getting a little confused by it all!

Sometimes it feels to me that a lot of advice in the world focuses on what you should do to fix yourself when you’re struggling. But not so much is looking at what people are doing right in the first place. What is it that prevents some people falling into an abyss of gloom when they reach a crisis and gives them the strength to cope with whatever they’ve been dealt?

I guess I’m wondering, are there certain things that you need to lead a good (mentally) healthy life? Are there a handful of beliefs or activities that you have to do to keep yourself sane? I feel like there must be a simple answer to this one!

Anyway you were talking about keeping your sense of self and your ability to find your way back to it. And it’s really clear that you have such inner strength and the confidence to keep trying, keep learning, keep moving. So I’d guess I’d like to ask you how you maintain this! And that’s my question:
WHAT THREE THINGS DO YOU THINK KEEP YOU SANE?
(I’ve picked three because I want my wisdom in small packages at the minute!)

Many good wishes to you and your family and may all your sanities continue to flourish

Lesley

Ruby-
Took your advice and searched "Acadia National Park". You're absolutely right, it is breathtakingly beautiful.
Found this site:
http://www.vermontel.com/~dmack/acadia.html
I'd suggest checking it out... I think I need to plan a trip :)

HI Paul.. and all,

Dhiana was talking about a cookbook and thought that you would like to try this one..

Summer Salad

Although it's winter time down under.

this is for 4-6 servings so add to taste.

4 peaches cut in chunks
4 nectarines cut in chunks
4 plums cut in chunks
1 tbsp of minced fresh mint
1 tbsp of minced fresh cilantro
1/4 cup of minced red onion
1 tbsp orange juice to mix

Sounds terrible and wonderful all at the same time. It really is delicious though. Very colorful.
Happy eating!!! By the by, Kelli sent me a personal e-mail and we've become fast friends..
Thank you for providing such a terrific site where people of all faiths and ideas can freely share. And you respond!!!!

Margie

Paul, I forget that your seasons are opposite ours. I wish it were winter here. This past week we looked at temperatures in the upper 90s to low 100s with high humidity. I've always thought it better to have winter than summer. Now follow my train of thought--When you're hot, you can take off only so much clothes, and then you're butt naked (and still hot). When you're cold, you can sit in front of a fire, drink something warm and pile on the clothes. Eventually you have to get warm.

Dhiana--my sister would love you to death and find you to be a kindred spirit. During holiday meals, she usually does the blessing. This entails lighting of candles, asking the blessing of the god and goddess and then starts thanking every food for giving its life so that we can be nourished. I put up with it until she starts thanking the peas, the potatoes, etc. lol.

Hope all is well with everyone.

p: thanx. old soul knockin' around in you, huh? i'll keep looking.

any thoughts on this year's july 4th from the americans in the cyber peanut gallery? i thought it would be more poignant than it turned out to be, but i'm a sucker for fireworks. watched them from manhattan this year rather than from the brooklyn side of the east river, which i had done the two years prior. i prefer the brooklyn side more. even despite the change in our skyline here, there's just something special about seeing the empire state building lit up red, white and blue underneath those sparks that makes me sap out somethin' fierce.

any thoughts?

Hey Texas,

I'm a sucker for fireworks too. They alway make me cry. I can watch them from our front lawn. I hate going to the park anymore. Dragging 4 kids along is just nuts with all those people. I think seeing the Empire State Builing lit up would be pretty spectacular. I'm not surprise by the lack of sentiment. Everything seems to have a patriotic bent nowadays. I even saw- get this-
Patriotic Astro Pops!!!! Remember those. Come on. I'm proud to be an American but I have seen so much false patriotism it's kind of starting to make me sick. I see flags in tatters on cars. Flags on porches out all night because the homeowner forgot, for weeks on end. The flag is supposed to be almost a sacred thing. I'm sorry that people don't respect it more. The statement seems to be enough.
Anyway, how are you affected by the flooding. I know that one of the girls on here was getting ready to evacuate. Wow, makes me glad I'm a Californian!!!
Hope everyone is well,

Margie

Hello One & All. We have survived. Our town (New Braunfels) was hit very hard. In fact, the Governor of Texas deemed our county (Comal) to be the hardest hit. My husband and I were very lucky...we were requested to evacuate and went to stay at my mother's for a few days. My husband's eldest brother and his family live near Canyon Dam which (for the first time in history) overflowed out on the spillway, causing them and several hundred others to be landlocked as all passages were either washed away or flooded. The waters have finally started to subside here, and the damage is just devastating. You wouldn't believe it unless you see it for yourself. Nature's fury has really woken up a lot of people here...one moment you're livin' lift large and full...the next...you lose EVERYTHING. Devastation of material things doesn't compare of course, to the devastation of life....12 beautiful souls lost their lives during this horrific flooding, but it could have been a lot more.

Thanks to everyone who have sent prayers, wishes and thoughts our way. Continue to send your energy and thoughts for those who have just begun to rebuild their lives.

GOD BLESS TEXAS!!!

Glad to hear you and your loved ones are safe and sound, Cammie.

m: who knew patriotism would become trendy?? right? i'm glad it happened, though, even if media-addicted americans take it too far (like everything else). patriotism sure beats the hell out of apathy.

i'm from texas and have family and friends there, but i live in new york. texans are a tough breed, though. it'll take more than a few sprinkles to dim their lights...right, cammie?

Kay-Lynne, I probably would like your sister! We don't go so far as to thank the peas in question (;-) but we just like to honor and remember, learn from the past and move forward. We do a rather toned-down version of things at our house, out of respect for my husband and his family. We honor (not "worship", there's a big difference) the lunar and solar cycles as a remembrance that all things are cyclicle, and all is as it should be. I like to expose the kids to as much diversity as possible, for educational purposes as they will run across many different folk in their lives, and we feel it's good to know where people are coming from to see why they choose to see things the way they do as adults.

We read them Bible stories for kids, take them to church and to circle, read the Celtic myths and even have a Menorah. (Thankfully, my five year old led the blessing at dinner last night with his Southern Bible Baptist grandmother and Deep South Aunties...I wondered which one he would choose of all the blessings we rotate through--there's even a really nice, quiet African one that would have just blown Aunt Rose's pacemaker for sure...but he started the "Thank you God, for this food..." and did it PERFECTLY! ).

They are well adjusted, polite, knowledgable and still curious little boys. They are "of *God* " no matter what name you personally attach to that entity.

(Note: I have ingested entirely too much caffiene this morning to even begin on the "Independence Day" celebrations and commentary. "Freedom"...hah! The fact that I HAVE to give money in taxes (that it's taken from wages I earned) to support killing, violence, and greed just so I can make a pittance is just revolting. Ok, didn't I say I wasn't going to start?)

De-toxing,
Dhiana

Paul,

Where are you? You have been very quiet a lot lately. I'm worried. I hope you are not too depressed. Right now, I am writing under a stressful time. It's raining here in Florida. I feel stressed because I am at an age now where I want to move out of my dad's house and start building my own nest. I am now 23 years old and still living with my dad. I hope that this year I will move out and live in my own apartment. Paul, when did you first live on your own? I hope to hear from you.

Sara

Hi Paul and all,

Sara, I didn't move out 'till I was 23 and just married. I'm really glad that you are making the move or at least have the desire to move now. I wish I had. I would have really liked to be independent. Oh well...
Cammie, I'm glad to hear that you and yours are safe and sound!!! Whew! I would not want to experince that for anything. I'll take the earthquakes any day. Thank you for remembering to remember, ha ha, the families of the 12 that we lost. Absolutly I will pray for them.

Paul.... are you on vacation? I know.. you've got your show!! Hope the wife and girls are all well.

Hope to hear from you soon..

Margie

Hi to all.
One I thought I would share:
Enthusiasm finds the opportunity, and energy makes the most of them.
Paul are you catching up on the Honey Do's at your house before the new season for you show starts. We haven't heard from you in a while.

Cammie, hope your house was not the one shown on TV with the garage door washed in and a 4 foot watermark on the outside wall. I live in a house that was flooded with about 6 inches of water back in the early 80's. We live 3 houses from a playa lake and fortunately for us we haven't had the kind of rain to cause flooding in several years. The city is working on new drainage system to keep these lakes from flooding, but we are required to carry flood insurance as a condition of our mortgage.
Sarah: I moved out when I was 18, married at 19, baby at 26, moved back in with the family at 27 and back out at 28 and will not move back. Too tough on all of us.
Franziska: I am convinced that our upbringing has an effect on our personality. All of my siblings were at home for the HS reunion this past weekend and to say that things got a little frustrating is putting things mildly. We determined who was most like which side of the family and since I look too much like my father and his mother I have a really hard time behaving like my mother's side of the family. My grandmother passed away 4 years ago and my dad will be 71 next week. These two have never been wrong, and regardless what you have done, gone, seen, or accomplished; they did it better. This is not something that has transpired with old age, Dad has always been this way. No one is allowed an opinion on anything. His word is the last word. I have asked my husband to let me know when I start acting like them. My mother has already got her angel wings just for putting up with dad's antic's of late.
The HS reunion was OK, no one else from my class was there. Most attendees were of Dad's vintage.
There will be a lot of those that will not make it to the next one in 3 years.
Well enough venting, I've pondered how to voice my feelings about this for several days, and had to get it out.
Our 4th of July celebration was nice. A very nice patriotic program by the Church of Christ was inspiring. Street fair had lots of good eats and there was a lot of loud music. The fire works were pretty and my brother set off fire works Saturday night for the 5 year old niece at the reunion.
We had rain off and on all day on the 4th and again on Saturday. Made my husband dance in the rain with me Saturday night. Now I have a bit of a head cold.
Must get to bed, another long day tomorrow. We are still doing Income Taxes.
Love to you all, thanks for letting me rant.

dancing in the rain...that's cool. head cold...not so cool. they never show that head cold part in the movies do they?

btw, anyone else up for a new thread or should we go for a record here?

What the hey,

Lets go for the record..
I like the idea of dancing in the rain. Head colds you get over. The memory of dancing in the rain with your hubby?... That's a memory I'd like to have.. if I could get him to dance. Incedently, we did think of taking ballroom dancing lessons shortly after we saw the movie. Never did get around to it though.
Learned a new one from my girlfriend for New Zealand..ttfn..

Ta ta for now..

Margie

Sara -

I have read some of the comments posted by others (as well as Paul, of course) and think you should heed their advice - now. It is so easy to feel safe in your current situation. It's safe, certain and you think you know it couldn't get any worse. Every once and again you come up against a hill, but you always get past them. Consider moving out as one of those hills - no matter how you go over it, around it, through it you always feel better when you get to the other side. You can spend years saying, "I'm going to do this..." but it doesn't really make a difference until you do something about it.

I did that for 6 years of my life. I commuted to college so I could stay close to my family and boyfriend and then I got a job 20 minutes away from my house. I stayed there for two years in misery - wishing I was somewhere else - anywhere. I didn't care what I did just as long as I could have five minutes to hear my own thoughts. I moved to San Diego in 3 weeks - I just packed up and went. I found a job with another company within a week. It may not have been the most challenging job ever but I wasn't working 12 hour days and I got to go to the beach every day. Then, a year later I moved here to Los Angeles. Again, I didn't know a soul. The second time around made me realize I could do it -whenever I wanted to.

The lesson is: you're not tied to anything - especially at your age. Your life is not your car, your job, your things. Your family is your home and they will be there as your anchor but that doesn't mean you can't take the dingy out for a spin! BUT - it's up to you to start the journey.