THE CAT’S MEOW
FOR WRITERS & READERS EZINE
Issue 15, Vol. 06
© February 10, 2006
THE CAT’S MEOW FOR WRITERS & READERS™
Ezine: ISSN: 2237-65
Published by Rosanne Catalano, (a/k/a R.C.Kayla)
Editor-in-Chief and Writer/Author
For Her Official Author Web Site – http://www.rosannecatalano.net
Editor and Proofreader: Nancy Currie (formerly
Peckford),
Technical Writer/Author, Web Designer and Assistant,
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Our Subscriber list is NOT made available to others.
We are NOT responsible for web site links that do not work;
they are given to us by our contributing authors.
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IN
THIS ISSUE:
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF’S
CORNER
EDITOR’S
CORNER
OFF
THE PRESS
Barbara
Deming—
“Growing
up Barefoot in the South” (New book release)
Rose Anna
Schoene—
“Absolutely
the Last Resort” (New romance book release)
“Shafi Doldi” (Penknife Press book release
for new author)
COFFEE
HOUSE 4 POETS & WRITERS
Heidi L.
Metzger (“Dizzy”)—
“Love and
War” (poetry)
Paula Gordon—
“Scattered
Remnants” (poetry)
Sandra
Hoynacki—
“Country
Tales” (a short tale)
Rev. Kimberly R. Dreiman—
“Childhood (an essay),” “I Am an Alien and Stranger in
This World – A Christian (an essay),” and “Spiritual Warfare” (an
essay)
Tammy Bruton—
“Heartache,”
“Free,” and “My Love” (poetry)
“When Tears Fall Down” and “Ponder Onto
a World” (poetry)
Michelle
Antoinette Obie—
“I will be Your Soul,” “I am No Longer Gone,” “I Will
Not Cry,” and “If I Had Wings” (poetry)
Hal Sirowitz—
“Frustrated Fingers,” “House Plans,” and “The
Far Side Getting Further” (loose-form haiku)
Sandra
Hoynacki—
“Faded
Friendship” (a short story)
Leya Irish
Bard—
“Amazon Tale – Janye’s Awakening” (a slice of her
novel)
FEATURE
ARTICLE
Dr. Tony Fiore—
“How to Deal With Difficult People: Part 3 – The
Passive/Aggressive”
ARTICLES
Pamela Stewart—
“Do You Define Yourself by Your Credit Score?”
Kristie Tamsevicius—
“Setting Up Your Dream Home Office Space”
Margie Warrell—
“What is the Quality of Your Excuses?”
Suzanne Falter-Barns—
“Are You a ‘Yes-Dog’?”
Charlie Cook—
“The Best Kept Web Site Marketing Secret”
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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF’S
CORNER:
Rosanne Catalano – www.rosannecatalano.net
Welcome to all our new subscribers! We’re so glad you
joined us. Please stay tuned for the redesigning of my author web site and home
of The Cat’s Meow for Writers & Readers’ ezine, which Nancy my
wonderful editor and assistant, is working on for the new year. As soon as it is
completed, I will let you all know.
Confession time, my friends. I made a blunder! Upon
re-reading some back issues of this ezine, realized that I repeated myself
about heart-healthy meals in the December (our anniversary issue) and January
issues. For that friends, I am truly sorry! Guess the deaths of my dad
and stepdad, and subsequent heart attack of my hubby, affected me more than I
had realized. The grieving process takes a very long time, and we should never
listen to those who say to “just get over it already.” No one can just
get over the death of loved ones; especially if you loved them as dearly as I
loved my dad and stepdad. They were both wonderful, loving men in their own
ways. You must go through all the stages of grief because if you don’t, it will
come back to haunt you, and the death of your loved one(s) will be as fresh in
your mind as the day they passed on. Another reason I made that blunder
is, since my husband’s heart attack, we have begun to incorporate a healthier
lifestyle, but it can drive you crazy during the learning process! We are
both going through this very positive change, but a change that is not easy.
Old habits don’t change overnight, and it takes time and lots of it to make
that change! It’s also driving me crazy having to read all the food
labels in the supermarket when I shop (lol) so please have patience with me
during this transition to a healthier way of eating.
On another note, I forgot to thank all my dear readers
and subscribers for your condolences on the passing of my beloved father
and stepfather. Your outpouring of love, comfort and prayers comforted me
and my family tremendously during this very sorrowful time.
Oh my, almost forgot two other things. I do hope our
subscribers are enjoying the talking Ebook, “10 Success Habits to Swell Your
Bank Account In 2006,” written by Michael Green and Peter Twist, given to
you as a Christmas gift from me to you in December … if you haven’t
already downloaded it, what are you waiting for? It’s a wonderful talking
Ebook written by two very successful entrepreneurs, in which they give
step-by-step advice on habits that they themselves have put into practice to
achieve their success. It can still be downloaded at: http://www.howtocorp.com/success-habits-2006/princess24,
believe me you won’t be sorry you have read their all-new talking Ebook.
The Ebook is FREE so you have nothing to lose, but everything to gain by
downloading it! Readers who aren’t subscribers can also read this talking
Ebook for FREE by going to the link above.
Would you also like to know how to live a more positive life
in the new year for you and your family? Well then, Dr. Barbara Becker
Holstein, a positive psychologist and happiness coach, tells my dear
readers how to be more positive in everything you do, and how to set goals to
live a more positive life; plus she has great inspirational quotes, merchandise
and books she has written that can be ordered right on her web site, The
Enchanted Self.com. Her books and merchandise focus on you and everyone
in your life, and can be bought at: http://www.enchantedself.com/cgi-bin/affiliates/aff.cgi?a=8.
Her newest book, “Delight,” focuses on learning to love and enjoy
yourself through life’s special moments, and is filled with emotional and
delightful reminiscences that will charm you! To read more about her
book, or to order Dr. Holstein’s beautifully, inspirational merchandise and
other books, please click here. You won’t be sorry once you go to
her web site; it comes highly recommended for anyone who wants to live a better
life. And it will leave you feeling as if you visited a wonderland of
positivity!
Now onward dear readers, to all my wonderful contributing
authors, poets and writers…please do enjoy their poems, stories (long &
short), haikus’ (a new form of flash fiction), and all the helpful informative
articles our contributing writers have written especially for you!
Believe it or not, while publishing our ezine, I, too, have learned a lot; just
by reading through every submission sent. So I am hoping you will love this issue
as much as I enjoyed reading and publishing it. Have a great February, and I’ll
see you all in March!
Copyright © February 10, 2006 by Rosanne Catalano
This Issue Is Dedicated To:
Carman Peter Catalano (my dad) and Harold Clinton
Welch (my stepdad), who are having their First Birthdays in Heaven
this year…
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EDITOR’S
CORNER:
Nancy Currie (formerly
Peckford) – webwriterworx.tripod.com (under
construction)
I have written an article about author/editor relationships
that is intended to produce feedback from our readers but due to technical
difficulties I will not be posting the article in this month’s ezine.
Look for the article in the March 2006 issue of The Cat’s
Meow for Writers and Readers.
Copyright © 2006 February 10, 2006 by Nancy Currie
(formerly Peckford)
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OFF
THE PRESS
Author Barbara Deming’s latest book, “Growing up
Barefoot in the South (Essays by a Southern Writer)” has been released!
She says about her book, “Those of you who know me well,
understand that this is a book dear to my heart. I always say that I am a
Southerner first and an American second--those Southern roots go way, way back
and are very deep despite the fact that I now live in California--well, at
least it's Southern California. This book will carry you back to a time and
place when life was simple, to small towns where the only rule of law was that
everyone knew what you were doing--just the place for a tomboy who loved to get
into mischief as well as climb mulberry trees to write. Take a trip back
to those "good old days" where love for family, country and church
were the values learned.”
The book is available at: http://www.amazon.com
or http://www.barnesandnoble.com
or an autographed copy from the author at tejasbabs@aol.com.
Barbara Deming, author (The Quilt Maker 2003).
__
“Absolutely the Last Resort” by Rose Anna
Schoene is a novel of
romance and suspense, set in the Catskill Mountains of New York, by one of
America’s talented new writers who does double-duty as a medical secretary for an M.D. and is also helping
her husband battle cancer right now. Her book publisher, Seaburn Press says
there is one book left in print but more copies can be ordered at www.amazon.com or you can use the direct link at: Amazon.com: Absolutely the Last Resort: Books.
Seaburn Press, ISBN: 1592320600.
__
Penknife Press introduces another new author: Paris Smith, who
has written an international thriller entitled “Shafi Doldi,”
that will have you turning pages late into the night. The ISBN is
1-59997-147-x. It is distributed by Baker & Taylor and
Ingram, and is available at your local bookstore and online. Visit their
website at: http://www.penknifepress.com
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COFFEE
HOUSE 4 POETS & WRITERS™
(Highlighting Artistic Talent Every Month!)
“LOVE
AND WAR”
(a poem)
Written
by Heidi L. Metzger (“Dizzy”)
Copyright
© May 31, 2005 by Heidi L. Metzger
Life’s not fair
when it comes
To love and war…
One minute
things go your way,
the next thing
you know they are at your throat;
Trying to kill
you!
It seems that
if you are happy,
everyone has to
ruin it for you
and they want
to make sure you can’t be
nor stay happy.
So when it
comes to love and war,
Love the people
you wanna be with
and fight the
one’s off who hurt
and jeopardize
your happiness.
All in the name
of Love and war…
__
ABOUT THE
AUTHOR:
The author, Heidi L. Metzger (a/k/a “Dizzy”), a
mother of two beautiful sons, can be reached at dizzi6794@yahoo.com.
Stay tuned for more of Heidi (“Dizzy”) Metzger’s emotional poetry to come…
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“SCATTERED
REMNANTS”
(a poem)
Written by Paula Gordon
Copyright © 2006 by Paula Gordon
You never said forever
yet you seep in so slowly,
Pores not having time to open
before the sweat of you is gone.
I savor the glisten that
you leave upon me,
Moonlight casting sparkles
across still drenched skin.
I open up to you like a
blooming rose and you
pick each petal apart
So languidly, until I am
nothing but the scattered
remnants of having worn you.
__
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
The author, Paula Gordon,
is a 43-year-old mother of one beautiful son. She has been deaf/mute since
birth. When Paula writes, she translates sound into colors, smells, and touch.
It enables people to look at the world in a different way. She and her son have
their own special way of communicating besides sign language. She says: “I just
try to convey what everyone else takes for granted.” She loves to write in
strict poetry forms, and is a Poetry Instructor on another web site. She can be
reached at: pdg2850@henderson.net.
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“Country Tales”
(a short
tale)
Written by Sandra Hoynacki
Copyright © 2005 by Sandra
Hoynacki
Down the long grey slab we wind
our way, as yellow crayon marks silently tell us what to do. We are
spellbound by nature and its beauty.
The farm animals seem to be
contemplating their next meal while we dwell on our rambling dreams.
Tinker toy cabins stand in the open spaces shadowed with giant pecan trees that
shed their little round gifts for Grandma’s pie. Yellow flowers stand
waving on the other side of the fish pond as we pass, blowing fragrant messages
to the deserted plot of ground lined with marble statues of used-to-be
dreamers, now sleeping peacefully on the dreams of tomorrow.
Tangled webs of moss blanket the
trees along the edge of the blue lake as the powder-white ducks glide gently
toward the unknown. The tractor pauses in the glistening wheat field as
the weather-beaten farmer, dressed in his old bib coveralls, waves and
smiles...
We drive on as stick people in the
drawing of the smallest hands, holding to our little edge of the chattering
world, busy in our own bubble as the yellow lines lead us to nature’s hidden
secret.
Wind swept messages are sending
secret codes to trees with their bright golden covers as they appear to be
conversing back and forth. The asphalt world of giant echoes left behind.
We continue on as the hum of our dreams sing us a melody…
__
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
The author, Sandra Hoynacki, lives in “the hurricane state”
with her second husband, who, along with her four (4) grown children and two
(2) grandchildren, is her very life! She is a retired nurse, who retired from
the nursing profession to take care of her elderly mother who was diagnosed
with alzheimer’s disease. But she still finds the time to write, because as she
said: “I love writing, and hope to write for many years to come!” This
very busy author also attended The Institute of Children’s Literature at-night.
To read more of Sandra’s poetry, please visit her author web site at: http://www.poetrypoem.com/poetic2050;
she can be reached via email at sandylh@cox.net.
***********************************************************************
“CHILDHOOD”
(an essay)
Written by Rev. Kimberly R. Dreiman
Copyright © 2005 by Rev. Kimberly R. Dreiman
Today I wonder how I ever survived childhood, and grew up to
be an ordained pastor, published writer and photographer. Actually, I know how
this happened – I asked Jesus into my heart and had Godly parents and
grandparents. You see as a child I would come home from school and watch a show
called: “Dark Shadows”. I knew the difference between reality and fantasy. More
important I knew the difference between right and wrong.
Now, for those of you who are too young to remember that
show – it had all kinds of strange characters like a witch, a vampire, werewolf
and many other strange characters. But, these characters were fantasy so they
had no lasting effect on me. I still cherish the memories of getting home from
school – grabbing a snack (yes I was a junk food junkie!) of a soft drink and a
ding dong and settling back in my favorite chair and enjoying the show.
Today Dark Shadows has been replaced with Harry Potter and
Goose Bumps. So, why do I have a problem with these books or shows? Personally
I don’t have a problem because I know the difference between reality and
fantasy and right from wrong. But, are the children in this generation being
taught right from wrong and the difference between reality and fantasy? In most
cases I would say yes – but for those who do not there is a danger reality will
mix with fantasy.
Many years ago, I was a substitute teacher’s aide and I was
in a special ed classroom for that day. I was to help out whenever needed. This
teacher was reading from Goose Bumps and was not teaching it as fantasy. She
was emphasizing how to cast spells, ect. She knew without me saying a
word – I disapproved of it because she asked me to leave the room if her
teaching offended me. So, I went to the main office and asked to be released
from duty. They told me I could not leave the school grounds and to go to the
lounge or just walk around until the school day ended.
I tried to do that – but my sense of right and wrong
wouldn’t let me get paid for nothing and I was bored. So, they sent me to the
library. They asked me to unpack cases of Goose Bump books. Finally, 3:00
came and I could go home. I prayed about the situation and the next morning I
called the superintendent of schools. I explained what happened and asked if
she would check into the situation I had encountered. She agreed to read
a few Goose Bump books and to call me back with her decision. A few days later
she called back and told me that she had found some things that were
inappropriate in some books. So, they were going to read and review the books.
Every parent must make a decision about books or shows they
will allow their children to watch or read. But, parents must give
children a set of values so they will be able to make the right choices. In
today’s society children are growing up too fast and they need to be allowed to
have a childhood that has fantasy and imagination in it. But they also need to
be taught the difference between fantasy and reality!
Parents need to remember the lessons learned in childhood
are carried into adulthood. This is my personal view on things: if
Christians (or People) would focus on spreading the good news of Jesus instead
of condemning women pastors, ministries, and other Christians and stop spending
so much time degrading books, ect., the world could be drawn to Jesus. It
would be a better place! Satan doesn’t have to do a whole lot to cause
confusion because Christians are doing it themselves when they talk about other
ministries, ect.
__
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Rev. Kimberly R. Dreiman is the ordained pastor and founder
of “Ring of Fire Evangelistic Ministry” in
Rev. Kimberly R. Dreiman is also a published author and her
latest book is, “The Adventures of Faith, Hope and Love.” Her book may be
enjoyed by children of all ages. Rev. Kimberly has also won awards for previous
photography she has done. If you would like more information about Rev.
Kimberly’s writing, please go to: http://www.writesight.com/writers/revkimberly. She can
also be reached via email at revkimberly@aol.com.
__
“I
AM AN ALIEN AND STRANGER IN THIS WORLD – A CHRISTIAN”
(an essay)
Written by Rev. Kimberly R. Dreiman
Copyright © 2005 by Rev. Kimberly R. Dreiman
As long as I can remember, I have been a stranger in this
world. Even as a child, I saw things from a different perspective. I saw them
through the spiritual eyes that God had blessed me with. I saw things from a
spiritual perspective.
One example of how I am a stranger comes from my childhood
memories. I grew up in a time when the women wore dresses and there were very
few exceptions to that rule. I attended a local church and one day the pastor’s
wife had a talk with mom. She told her to let me wear jeans to services. I
liked wearing dresses and for a period of time, I felt uncomfortable but soon
adjusted to the new style. I suppose the pastor’s wife felt I needed to fit in
with the other children. But I never really fit in – I was always
different than everyone else.
As a child, I would play school and make crosses out of play
dough. I would invite the neighborhood children to church. I would even
ask mom to give my clothes that I had outgrown to a neighbor child down the
street.
The Lord and I had a close relationship in my childhood
prayers. I would lock myself in the bathroom and kneel down to pray. I knew God
had a plan for me and I never did enjoy things that did not glorify God.
Today, I am really an alien and stranger in this world
because I am an ordained pastor and I am a woman. The Lord called me and
I am not ashamed and I will stand firm for the Lord and continue in His service
until I draw my last breath. I will not compromise to fit in or to receive
donations. I am in the Lord’s army and I will follow His orders. I preach the
truth and call sin: “Sin”. Someday, everyone will stand before the
judgment seat of Christ, and will give account for their lives. Pastors and
Christians need to wake up and hear the battle cry to serve the Lord and spread
the good news of Jesus.
I Peter 2:11-12 “Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and
strangers in the world to abstain from sinful desires, which will wage war
against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they
accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the
day He visits”.
__
“SPIRITUAL
WARFARE”
(an essay)
Written by Rev. Kimberly R. Dreiman
Copyright © 2005 by Rev. Kimberly R. Dreiman
The bible teaches that the war is not against flesh and
blood but against the ruler of the air as shown in: Ephesians 2:1-2 “As for
you. You were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live
when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the
air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient”. Satan can
come in many forms and is a great deceiver. I want to share an encounter I had
with a high priest of Satan’s church.
Many years ago, I worked as a houseparent for a non-profit
children’s home. I believe the Lord sent me there for many reasons. The job was
rewarding because I was able to share Jesus with the children in my care, but
it was also confining. I would work 30 days and then have 4 days off. So, you
had to make friends with parents (for whatever reason, the children were at
this facility instead of living with them) or with other houseparents.
I was from a small town and at that point basically trusted
everyone. So, there was a parent of a child that let houseparents use his home
to get off campus for a few hours. I went there a few times, but things just
didn’t seem right.
He asked me out on a date and told me he was a pastor.
Something still didn’t ring true, so I kept my distance. It was extremely scary
because I would go to a shopping center and turn around and he was there.
Finally one day, he explained he was a high priest of
Satan’s church. Of course, after I recovered from the shock, I stopped all
communication with him and, of course, prayed for him. I don’t know what ever
happened to him, but I do know this – no one would have known by looking that
he was a high priest of Satan. He was a well-dressed man, and was very kind and
compassionate.
People must realize Satan is the deceiver. God’s angels were
protecting me! People from my hometown were holding me up in prayer. God guided
my steps and protected me. This world is a difficult place to live in at this
point in time. There is no standard of right and wrong and no set values. So
that is why we must be as wise as a serpent and harmless as a dove. Read your
bible daily, pray without ceasing and allow the Lord to guide your steps!
__
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Rev. Kimberly R. Dreiman is the ordained pastor and founder
of “Ring of Fire Evangelistic Ministry” in
Rev. Kimberly R. Dreiman is also a published author and her
latest book is, “The Adventures of Faith, Hope and Love.” Her book may be
enjoyed by children of all ages. Rev. Kimberly has also won awards for previous
photography she has done. If you would like more information about Rev.
Kimberly’s writing, please go to: http://www.writesight.com/writers/revkimberly. She can
also be reached via email at revkimberly@aol.com.
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“HEARTACHE”
(a poem)
Written by Tammy Bruton
Copyright © 2006 by Tammy Bruton
The day has come to see what we have made,
A boy or a girl – either will be okay.
Entered the Doctor’s Office, our whole family inside,
To see the child that likes to hide.
We find out there is no heart beat,
No movement of arms or feet,
My own heart wanting to cease,
My baby I wanted so bad, deceased.
I gave birth the natural way.
A little boy, that God has taken away.
The only thing keeping me sane;
Thinking that he is in a better place,
And I will see him again, Someday.
Mournfully, I left the hospital without my son,
With comfort from my loved ones.
Though my heartache still remains,
The love of my husband and children eases the pain,
Of losing my beloved
__
“FREE”
(a poem)
Written by Tammy Bruton
Copyright © 2006 by Tammy Bruton
I am sitting on my porch,
Rocking in my swing.
I am looking at the sky,
And in my line of vision,
A bird swoops in.
It seems like he is dancing,
As he sways and turns.
He opens his wings wider,
Looks like more air that he yearns.
He flies higher and higher,
Until he’s out of my sight.
Then he comes down fast,
A master of his own flight.
It must be nice having no boundaries,
The wind your only need.
Nothing to get in your way,
As you flutter your wings for more speed.
I long to be that bird,
Up there wild and free.
No more doors slammed in my face,
Just let me – be Me.
__
“LITTLE
VOICE”
(a poem)
Written by Tammy Bruton
Copyright © 2006 by Tammy Bruton
A little voice screams in my head,
Wake up child or you’ll soon be dead.
I struggle to become awake,
Wondering why my life is at stake.
Awake, I now realize,
my arms and feet, both are tied.
Panic stricken through every cell,
I can’t scream. I can’t yell.
A little voice screams in my head,
Calm down child or you’ll soon be dead.
I realize it’s hard to breathe,
I try to sit up. I try to leave – but I cannot even do that.
I hit my head, something hard and flat.
I feel around, feel nothing but wood.
Buried alive. I finally understood.
A little voice screams in my head,
It’s alright child you’ll get out.
Wondering how, I wiggle the ropes,
untie myself but have little hope.
I punch at the wood above my heart
and pray to God to help with this part.
I pray, I pray, I punch, I pray.
Finally the wood gives way.
A little voice screams in my head,
Move fast as dirt comes down so red.
I struggle and dig with my hands and feet,
as I sob and bitterly weep.
It seems like I will never get there,
then my fingertips brush cold air.
I push myself on top of the earth,
It feels like it’s my own rebirth.
A little voice softly speaks in my head,
You had faith in me, for you I have bled.
You listened to me in your most trying time,
a precious woman, so divine.
A little confused, all dirty and bruised,
I’ve been through hell, yet, I feel so well!
__
“MY
LOVE”
(a poem)
Written by Tammy Bruton
Copyright © 2006 by Tammy Bruton
Standing at the water’s shore,
watching the waves while they are dancing,
They separate, then mingle as one,
as if they are romancing.
Watching this reminds me of you,
how you gave me your heart and soul.
Combined to make one unit of strength,
accepted, we make each other whole.
The waves make me unsteady on my feet,
my mind, oh how they do possess.
I sit down to watch them more,
dancing and crashing with finesse.
Engulfing me with all that you are,
your name engraved into my heart.
Soothing my entire soul,
not always together, but never apart.
Now the sun goes down,
and the waves begin to subside
Merged together, forever,
our love entwined, survives.
__
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
The author, Tammy Bruton, is originally from
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“WHEN
TEARS FALL DOWN”
(a poem)
Written by
Copyright © 2005 by
When tears fall down
onto the concrete I won’t cry
nor shed another darn tear because
When I envision, I glisten
to see you standing there alone?
Not alone but with a clown,
who looks exactly like you did before yesterday
It’s an enormous battle that keeps battling inside my mind
I am not in control, but I would like to be
I am scared to see things,
I am scared of falling off into a deadly hole
I hope for someone’s hand to reach for me,
to take me out, to take me in.
__
“PONDER
ONTO A WORLD”
(a poem)
Written by
Copyright © 2005 by
Ponder onto a world,
which is unknown to a mysterious magical being
who suffers from longitude of believing
I am expressing my thoughts,
that combine cynical connection
Fire burning through my veins
like pure ecstasy of fire
Burning for my desire
I’m in need of something new,
to comprise my energy upon
Wanting to touch her sweet strawberry hair
That makes me smile without despair.
Injecting the core with purity of gratification of my pen
Circular rotation of pronunciation of intoxicated red rose
It gets spread out through the hallway like
Sweet Mozart gentle tune
Humming the magical song inside my mind
I cannot believe I can fly
Up in the sky
Hoping to touch upon a soul
That connects into my brain like a voluptuous pain.
__
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
The author,
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“I
WILL BE YOUR SOUL”
(a poem)
Written by Michelle Antoinette Obie
Copyright © 2005 by Michelle Antoinette Obie
So little time, so much pain
Just give me your heart and let me go
I will be your soul that brought me
to life as we dance a sweet dance,
Sing a sweet song, as we move to the groove
Of our pain.
So little time, so much pain
Just give me your heart and let me go
Such mixed emotions, love is for real
I will be your soul that keeps us so close
__
“I
AM NO LONGER GONE”
(a poem)
Written by Michelle Antoinette Obie
Copyright © 2005 by Michelle Antoinette Obie
I am no longer gone as for my pain
I can’t hide the troubled thoughts
I have grown too old to fall in love,
To wise to love, I’m no longer afraid
To cry these sorrow sounds, these vanishing
Tears I once heard.
I am a woman with pride to be
Big bone, pride to be who I am.
I am no longer gone as for my pain
I can’t hide these tears no more,
I can’t drown my heart into fear anymore,
Fear itself is unexplainable,
The color of my skin has gone to black,
Too soft, too bright
I am no longer gone as for my pain,
I can not no longer hide,
These troubled thoughts
Of mine.
__
“I
WILL NOT CRY”
(a poem)
Written by Michelle Antoinette Obie
Copyright © 2005 by Michelle Antoinette Obie
I will not cry under the blue moon
Unless my heart tells me so
My love won’t last now
Unless I am free.
I will not cry when God tells us
It’s time to go
God once told me I would not cry
Until I am set free.
Because I know I once lived
My life the way he wanted me to be
But I will not cry unless my soul tells me so.
__
“IF
I HAD WINGS”
(a poem)
Written by Michelle Antoinette Obie
Copyright © 2005 by Michelle Antoinette Obie
If I had wings my sorrow would be over,
I wouldn’t have to cry these lonely tears of mine.
Why do I feel like crying when the world is against me?
If I run, the pain won’t go away and if I stay it will haunt
me today.
If I had wings my sorrow would be over, the pain would go
away,
If I had wings I would soar through the sky to mark my name
in the world for all to see.
I’m not a little girl anymore you see,
I came a long way to be free.
But my sorrow still haunts me
I never knew what love was like,
Because my heart wants to be free.
If I had wings, my sorrow would be over
I wouldn’t have to cry these lonely tears of mine.
__
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
The author, Michelle Antoinette Obie, says that writing has
always been a huge part of her life in one way or another. Growing up wasn’t
always easy for her but she has learned that life has it’s ups and downs, and
that when you keep the Lord first the Lord will always bring you a blessing in
disguise…so if you are thinking about ‘giving up’ on your dreams, don’t!
There is always someone out there who will encourage your dream(s). If
you would like more information about the author or to read more of her poems,
please go to Michelle’s new web site at http://home.bellsouth.net/p/PWP-writingforlove.
If you would also like to send correspondence to Michelle, she can be reached
at michelleobie@bellsouth.net.
************************************************************************
“FRUSTRATED
FINGERS”
(loose-form haiku)
Written by Hal Sirowitz
Copyright © 2005 by Hal Sirowitz
Holding hands, our fingers
becoming excited.
Then she ruined it by removing her thumb.
__
“HOUSE
PLANS”
(loose-form haiku)
Written by Hal Sirowitz
Copyright © 2005 by Hal Sirowitz
If a relationship is
like a house, then we never
Got out of the cellar.
__
“THE
FAR SIDE GETTING FURTHER”
(loose-form haiku)
Written by Hal Sirowitz
Copyright © 2005 by Hal Sirowitz
We were on the far side of
happiness. But if it got any further away,
We could only get there by map.
__
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
The author, Hal Sirowitz, is a 56-year old, former Poet
Laureate of Queens, New York; a title he held for three years (January 2000 –
December 2003)! To correspond with Hal Sirowitz, he can be reached via email
at: minter.krotzer@verizon.net.
************************************************************************
“FADED
FRIENDSHIP”
(a short story)
Written by Sandra Hoynacki
Copyright © 2005 by Sandra Hoynacki
The wind had been blowing hard that day. I was sure I
wouldn’t be able to finish the chores before the rain started. With mom and dad
working in town, I was alone except for a day or two a week when Mr. John, our
farm help, would come.
I had been jittery lately with that single faded rose coming
in the mail. Every day it came wrapped neatly in a brown bag with no name or
hint as to who had sent it. As the clouds rolled in, fear gripped my bones, and
I looked up to see the mail wagon rattling down the skinny trail that led to
our ranch. Muttering aloud to myself, I wondered, “Why did he stop today?”
Feeding the last horse, I looked up in time to see the mail
carrier heading to our box. He placed a package inside, waved, and turned to
leave as the thunder sounded like giant hammers beating from all directions. I
stood there and looked at the bright yellow mailbox just a few paces down the
road and thought, “No rose today.” With feet like lead, I trudged down
the rocky road to get the mail.
Looking inside, I saw the package waiting like a snake to strike
out. My breath smothered me, and I began to tremble. Today was different. The
paper was tied in black string instead of the brown knotted rope. Reaching
inside, I felt something hard. Easing the package out, I slowly untied the
string and saw the black box. I stood there feeling that at any moment I would
crumble into a pile of dirt on the wet ground. Fearfully lifting the lid, I saw
a note folded in small squares. I could see the writing in blood red ink.
I unfolded the paper. The words shouted out at me, “I will see you one
day.” I dropped the note and reached inside the brown rolled-up bag,
pulling out the faded rose. Someone had cut the thorns off and carefully
wrapped them in tape before putting them under the rose. Feeling sick, I slumped
to the ground.
The rain had started making its way down the front of my
face as cold drops pounded me like little rocks. I sat staring at the thorns,
the rose, and the box. The wind began to whisper, calling the blanket of
darkness to close in overhead leaving the daylight flickering like a candle, a
patch of light quickly gone.
I felt like a popsicle on a hot summer day as the rain
continued to roll down every inch of my bony frame. Even the freckles on my
nose would surely slide off. I jumped up and ran toward the house as darkness
swallowed me up. Suddenly the headlights of a car burst through the night,
coming from behind me.
“Jenny, what are you doing out here?” I recognized
Dad’s voice. I turned to see both dad and mom.
“I was getting the mail and it…” I stammered.
“You’re soaking wet,” Mom said.
“Mom, it came again, the rose, and now there is a black box
and thorns and…”
“Jenny, get inside now!”
The warmth of the kitchen and the hot cup of cocoa hugged
close to my chest were comforting.
“Dad, can we go to the post office tomorrow and do
something?” I asked.
“Alright Jenny, now settle down and go to bed. After
breakfast tomorrow we’ll go.”
At the post office the next day, Dad explained to the
postmaster what had been happening and gave him the evidence. The postmaster
looked puzzled then quickly opened the desk drawer and pulled out a list. With
the scrawl of the pen, we had an address.
The solution to my rose puzzle was minutes away now. Soon
dad pulled up to a cobblestone cottage with a pearly-white picket fence. I
suddenly felt like throwing up, but gulped down a breath of air instead. Rose
bushes greeted us around the well-kept yard.
“Dad, this is not it,” I said, recognizing the house.
“Jenny, calm down.”
At the side of the porch I saw a wheelchair ramp.
“Dad, this is all wrong,” I said, my voice trembling. “Let’s
just go, I don’t want to be here.”
“No, Jenny, we will face this now.”
We walked to the front door and rang the bell, it softly
began to play, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” The door opened, and
there she sat in a wheelchair, small and fragile but beautiful. Since first
grade we had been best friends.
“Jenny, I knew you would come.”
“Amy, I—.” Suddenly it all came lashing out at me,
tormenting me all over again. I had dared her to make that dangerous jump. “Oh,
Amy, I’m so sorry.”
“Jenny, I know you have blamed yourself for the accident all
these years, and I blamed you, too, but now it’s over.” Tears streamed
down our faces as we stared at one another. Dad stood silently behind me. I
knelt by her chair and looked up at her Barbie-doll face.
“Amy, I have thought of you every day and not once since the
accident have I rode Star again. I wish it had been me.”
“Jenny, my anger is gone. And my black box world is gone,
too, along with the thorns of pain I have felt.” Like a broken fountain, we
both cried and cried, knowing the faded roses were in the past as well as our
faded friendship was.
“Dad, will you pick me up later?” I yelled as I pushed Amy
down the wheelchair ramp and into the sparkling new day. Smelling the fragrance
of the beautiful roses, we both began to sing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow”
as we made our way to the soda fountain for our favorite sundae.
Our brush with death stood silent between us as I pushed her
quietly in her chair. Passing a row of beautiful flowers, I picked her a yellow
rose. She smiled and gently smelled it… A yellow rose stood for friendship.
__
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
The author, Sandra Hoynacki, lives in “the hurricane state”
with her second husband, who, along with her four (4) grown children and two
(2) grandchildren, is her very life! She is a retired nurse, who retired from
the nursing profession to take care of her elderly mother, diagnosed with
Alzheimer’s Disease. But still finds the time to write, because as she herself
has said: “I love writing, and hope to write for many years to come!”
This very busy, new published writer also attended The Institute of Children’s
Literature at night. To read more of Sandra’s poetry, please visit her web site
at: http://www.poetrypoem.com/poetic2050;
or she can be reached via email at sandylh@cox.net.
************************************************************************
“AMAZON
TALE – JANYE’S AWAKENING”
(a short story, a
modified slice from the author’s novel)
Written by Leya Irish Bard
Copyright © 2005 by Leya Irish Bard
She heard their voices…soft female tones close by. Pain,
weakness and fear kept her eyes closed. One woman had just entered – telling
the other she would stay.
Curiosity, and the scrape of a wooden stool, forced Janye to
open her eyes. Blinking, Janye focused on a tall woman standing beside her. Her
long red hair tied behind her, the Amazon known as Conori smiled softly. Janye
scanned the other woman, much older, and perhaps a Healer by trade. Her eyes
drifted again to Conori as she spoke.
“Hello, little one. You are safe now. No one will hurt you
again.”
Janye tried to reply but pain spasms kept her quiet. She
managed to nod and both women smiled. The Healer, a woman named
Hours later Janye awakened. She was on a soft bed lined with
fur. A blanket folded around her. She was inside a wooden hut – dimly lit by
faded sunlight through three windows.
Watching both women, Janye remained silent. Instinctively
she trusted them. I must have escaped somehow, or they found me. Conori
sat beside her. Again her smile…reassuring and warm.
“My name is Conori. This is
Janye understood each word. Mesmerized, she stared into
Conori’s eyes. Amazon. She is an Amazon Warrior? She’d heard of them in
hushed tones of awe. Fierce warriors known for killing men and robbing
villages. But this woman didn’t fit that image. Beautiful and regal, she wore a
flowing red gown that matched her hair.
Closing her eyes, Janye remembered Albus. Her stepfather. He
died trying to save her. Too much. I must not think of him.
Conori was handing her a cup. “I have water for you.” Conori
watched the young woman carefully take the cup, moving slowly, her blue eyes
rarely leaving her. Janye’s face was swollen and bruised. She was lucky to be
alive. One so young should not suffer…a mere girl. Perhaps 15 turns? Janye’s
small size made it hard to know her age.
She was, however, older at 17. Suitors had started to
approach Albus, who angrily drove them away. He had told her she was too
pretty. He should have chosen an ugly girl. She’d laughed and hugged him close.
The oxen farmer had rescued her from an orphanage many turns
before, and she loved him dearly. Janye returned the cup. Conori’s voice was
warm. “Maybe if you’re lucky we might give you food.” Janye smiled, a small
smile but it was there.
Departing,
Conori watched her Healer continue to pace. “Have you given
her potions for the pain?” Conori asked calmly.
“Yes… of course” came the terse reply.
Conori nodded. “
Amazon Elonia, holding something in her hand, requested to
meet with her. Handing the Queen a strange flute with several different sized
tubes running horizontally she spoke. “We have been going through the
Slave Trader’s wagons for items to sell or barter – Avinia has been helping me.
When we found this flute Avinia said it belongs to Janye. I thought you would
want it.”
“Yes” taking the flute. “This might help her to heal. To
trust us. Thank you Elonia.”
Looking at the flute, Conori lit a candle. The day was
turning into nightfall – it seemed to pass too quickly today. Two knocks at her
door brought Diana, the Amazon who organized the tribe activities, carrying her
dinner. Accepting the food, she asked Diana to meet with her in the morning.
Diana agreed and left her Queen.
Holding the candle in one hand, the flute in the other,
Conori entered the bedroom. Janye’s reaction to the flute was profound. She
struggled to sit up, reaching for it, whispering “That is mine.” Janye
had thought her flute lost… the only thing she treasured in her life.
Conori rushed over, immediately placing it in her hands.
Janye hugged the flute, tears starting to flow. “Thank you. Thank you.” Albus
had given it to her and taught her to play.
Conori was almost brought to tears as well, seeing Janye
suddenly so emotional. “I am glad I could return it to you, little one. Do you
need food or water – can I bring you something?”
Janye’s blue eyes seemed to look right through her. “No.
This is enough. Thank you.”
She wanted so much to talk with Janye, help her in some way,
but her heart told her to leave her alone. Moving away, she decided to go to
bed. Tomorrow would be a busy day.
Extinguishing the candle, Conori took off her clothes and
slipped naked into sleeping furs along the wall. Conori could still see Janye’s
blue eyes full of tears, clutching the flute. Dreaming of that, Conori fell
into a deep sleep.
Janye’s dream was anything but peaceful.
A scream pierced nightfall, waking Conori and others in the
camp. Lighting a candle with flint, Conori found her still locked within her dream.
Gently touching Janye’s shoulders with both hands, Conori sought her release.
“Janye. Janye. It is a dream. You are safe.”
Blonde hair damp with sweat, Janye’s eyes finally did open.
Breathing rapidly, she stared right through Conori… her hands gripping Conori’s
forearms.
“Janye… You are in the Amazon camp. You are safe here.” I
am safe here. Closing her eyes, Janye loosened her grip and relaxed. It
was a dream. A bad memory.
Conori nodded at both, leaving one hand on Janye’s shoulder.
“A bad dream. Nothing more. She is fine now.” Conori stood as she realized more
Tribeswomen were coming. “Diana,
Conori sat again by her side. “Little one, you have nothing
to be sorry for. All is well.” Janye focused on Conori now, smiling slightly as
gentle fingers brushed damp hair from her forehead.
“Do you need to talk about it?” Conori asked gently.
Body tightening, eyes suddenly wide, “No … No.” Fear gripped
Janye … breathing short and painful.
Conori took her hand. “It is okay, little one. I mean you no
harm.” Relaxing again, Janye knew this. She took Conori’s hand with both her
own – holding it tightly to her chest.
After a few moments, Conori drew her hand away. “Sleep,
little one. A dreamless, safe sleep.” Janye nodded, blue eyes still following
Conori as she sought the candle and extinguished it.
These dreams tortured Janye for three nights in a row. The
third night, Janye sobbed convulsively afterwards, and Conori held her close,
rocking her back and forth.
“She trusts me the most. She will stay for now.”
In the front room, just before dawn, Queen Conori had
written a list of tasks to be completed. Filling out the scroll by candlelight,
she was stunned when Janye entered. The girl was holding the doorway to stay
upright.
“Janye, please you shouldn’t be walking,” Conori put her
arms around her for support. Janye leaned against her. In a soft reply she
asked, “Please, can I sit at the table?” Conori pulled a chair out –
almost knocking it over in haste, and then helped the girl sit down.
Frightened, Conori touched Janye’s forehead, fearing she had a fever.
Janye saw the concern in her eyes. “I am fine, Conori. I
could not lie down any longer. I saw the candlelight and decided to come here.”
Still wrapped in a blanket, Janye looked fragile – ready to collapse at any
moment. But her spirit was obviously stronger. “Tell me what you are writing
about.”
Unrolling the scroll, she read her list as though briefing
Janye like a regular Amazon receiving orders. Conori paused several times –
adding explanation when she knew Janye was unsure what she meant.
Janye watched her in wonder. She had never seen any woman
like her before. You are amazing. Beautiful. Strong. To serve you would be
an honor.
Not knowing Janye’s thoughts, Conori said, “Now are you
thankful you are not an Amazon?” Janye smiled softly, flinching slightly
because it hurt to do so. Asking about her rescue, Conori told her everything.
Janye looked away, finally saying, “They wanted me to play my flute, and I
refused. That is the last thing I remember, before waking up here. Seeing you.”
Both women looked at one another. Lightly touching Janye’s
arm, Conori spoke softly. “I have a favor to ask you.” She paused, continued.
“If
Janye couldn’t help but smile. Conori returned it. “If I
prop you up, will you return to your bed?” Janye nodded, already starting to
stand. Her strength, however, did fail. She would have fallen if not for Conori
pulling her into her arms, and carrying her back to the bed.
“I’ve got you, little one. Back to bed with you.”
Sitting her there, Conori grabbed two of her sleeping furs.
Rolling them up like pillows, she placed them behind Janye so the girl was
comfortably in a sitting position. Thankfully, she appeared to be just
sitting by Janye’s bed when both Doris and Diana entered the room. Conori
dropped her head and exhaled in relief. Thank the gods. Just in time.
Janye laughed softly, and smiled at both women in greeting.
Diana briefed her Queen in the front room as
“Diana. We need to ask her.”
Knowing the girl was fit enough now to express her desires,
Conori and Diana entered the bedroom. Conori gestured to Diana, not wishing her
desires to influence the girl.
Conori looked out a window as Diana began. “Janye, some of
the former slaves have asked to be returned to their villages… to a regular
society. Once you are well, we can offer that to you if you desire.”
Janye moved as though to stand, drawing protests from
“I want to stay here Conori. With you.” Janye directed these
words at Conori, just as though they were alone.
“Then you will stay Janye, and be welcomed in our
Tribe.” The Queen’s tone left little doubt of anything else. Diana and
Doris looked at one another, not exactly sure what had just happened.
Six more days passed. Janye insisted on walking, bathing
herself, and attending to her own needs. She explored the Amazon camp seeing
not just the warriors, but women planting, harvesting, caring for animals, working
looms, making food, hunting and fishing. The Tribe had two communal meals each
day, which Diana supervised with the help of others. The Community thrived with
everyone contributing in some way. By mid-day, Janye would tire.
Although she tried to avoid
Janye cherished their time alone. She felt at ease with
Conori…less scrutinized. Natural curiosity about the Tribe, their ways and
customs, fascinated her. She asked Conori questions, sometimes until late at
night. Both women enjoyed these talks – Conori seeing her Amazon life through
Janye’s eyes.
One evening, Janye seemed more reflective. The girl would
look ready to speak, and then stop as though words were lost.
Conori finally caught her attention. “You wish to ask me
something.” Conori was sitting at her table, curious what Janye had on her
mind. “Yes,” replied Janye. She sat across from Conori. “I have seen some
Tribeswomen affectionate with one another. Kissing.” She paused slightly, “But
there are also children.” She’d seen two girls, perhaps five turns old, playing
with a small goat. An Amazon named Kyme watched them indulgently.
Conori smiled. Yes that would need explanation. Now
it was Conori’s time to find words. “Amazons will have loving bonds with one
another if they desire. Some do want the company of men, or wish children. So
they seek their…attentions in local villages. Men are not allowed within our
Tribe, though.”
Janye wanted to know more. “Do you bond with another now, or
in the past, who…” She could not finish her question, suddenly embarrassed to
ask. Dropping her eyes, she felt she had said too much.
Conori watched her; aware Janye was uncomfortable and
suddenly shy. Her reply was factual.
“In the past, I have enjoyed the company of women. I have
been alone for four turns. I lost a woman I loved when she fell from a horse.”
Janye started to apologize, which Conori quickly interrupted. “No Janye, I do
not mind your questions. We all have past pain that should be shared. We grow
in friendship that way.”
Janye had not told her about Albus. The loss was still too
raw, too gaping inside to allow healing. Not yet.
Both women sat there for some time, each lost in their own
thoughts. Conori finally stood, gently placing one hand on Janye’s shoulder.
“It grows late.
Working daily with Doris and Diana, Janye now wore a simple
leather dress gathered around her waist with a leather tie. Her hair either
braided or tied back lightly from her face. She felt a sense of belonging,
unity she had never known before.
Diana was finally compelled to move Janye into
Diana flushed brightly. “Yes. Thank you. I knew you would
understand. It isn’t proper for our Queen to share her hut.”
Janye didn’t question what she was told, knowing she had
been blessed by staying with her at all. Conori returned from checking their
boundaries to find her Hut now empty. Worried, she was caught by Diana before
rushing into the Healers Hut – fearing Janye had suffered a relapse.
“I thought it best my Queen. There has been talk within the
Tribe. Janye understands the situation.” Diana had to suppress a chuckle…seeing
the scowl on Conori’s face.
“Diana. I would have preferred to know beforehand, so Janye
would be prepared. Where did you place her?”
Diana dipped her head slightly – she expected this. “She is
with
At dinner Conori joined her Tribe at the communal tables.
She watched Janye helping Diana and others serve food…clearing dishes as they
were emptied and discarded. The young woman juggled several dishes at once,
trying not to drop any, as she moved unnoticed by the others.
Feeling her gaze, Janye met Conori’s eyes. For just a moment
they connected, until Janye dropped her eyes. She was too shy around the others,
over 100 tribeswomen, to do more than that.
This time had been theirs alone. Conori was quiet and
withdrawn. She left after eating little, hoping somehow Janye would follow, yet
already knowing she would not.
Janye watched her leave – bidding her Tribe good night.
Janye felt loneliness so acute she ached inside. Though surrounded by her Tribe
she was alone. Shaking her head, she again asked Diana for more tasks.
Self-pity was not her nature.
Filling a cup with wine, Conori sat at her table. Her
lifeless hut offered no solace. Wasn’t she entitled, as Queen, to her own
friendships? Why should her Tribe dictate her actions? Yes, she was double
Janye’s turns, but she wasn’t sleeping with her. And if they did…
Conori closed her eyes tightly. She would not take advantage
of her adoration. She could see it in her eyes. That…that was wrong. Draining
her cup she refilled it. This night would be long.
Conori sought Diana at dawn the next day. She’d made a
decision. “You have said before I need an Assistant. Someone to make sure I
eat, remember to give me a weapon when I bathe, help take notes by scroll.” She
reasoned, “I think Janye would be acceptable.”
Diana smiled. My Queen is in love and does not know it.
Everyone else does, but not her.
But she did know. She wasn’t sure when it had happened but
denying it was a waste of time. Conori could not sleep at all…her inner turmoil
wrestling with her conscious. She would not act on her feelings, but having
Janye with her as before would be enough.
Diana spoke to Janye that day about serving their Queen as a
personal assistant. Janye felt her spirit soar with joy. She couldn’t help
herself, saying yes before Diana even finished her words.
The Tribe then watched Janye move her things back to
Conori’s hut. Diana was with her, making sure the sleeping area was divided so
both women had privacy. But everyone knew they would not stay that way. Some
tribeswomen began placing bets on when they would become lovers, and gossiped
over the signs they should look for.
Janye spent her days with
Conori kept a distance between them, always busy with tasks
and note taking. Janye made sure she had food and wine – lighting a candle when
light grew dim. She accepted her role…thankful for any time they could share.
Two nights later, Conori was studying maps of their lands by
candlelight, planning a potential camp move, when Janye started to play her
flute in the other room. The song played had the most beautiful tones she had
ever heard. Something about her music reached down into your very soul. Conori
abandoned the maps, and found Janye sitting on her sleeping furs playing the
flute. She sat beside her, watching her play and listening.
When Janye finished, lowering her flute, Conori asked, “Tell
me the story of your music, Songbird.”
Janye smiled at her Queen, the woman that now filled her
dreams at night. “I was orphaned as a young girl,” she began. “A sickness went
through our village known as Erseke. My mother, father, and brother died. I was
nine turns old. Villagers took me to an Orphanage in Kozani.”
Conori’s eyes narrowed, her anger easily visible, and Janye
knew why. In the Amazon world, the Tribe worked together as a whole. An Orphan
would not be sent to strangers. Even a male child was given to someone who
would raise the child.
Janye continued. “I stayed there for two turns. One day, an
older man came seeking a son to help him with a small oxen farm. He looked to
be a kind man, and something told me to talk with him. He later decided to take
me. For seven turns, I lived as his daughter. We grew close. Albus taught me to
read, write, and to play this flute.” Janye turned the flute in her hand. “It
is my only possession of value.”
Both women looked at the flute, then each other. Conori
needed to know the rest. “How were you taken by Slave Traders?” Janye
closed her eyes, her expression showing this was a painful memory. “They came
disguised as Merchants, wanting to buy Oxen.” Janye now gazed far away … face
frozen. “As soon as they realized we were alone, they took what they wanted. I
was their sport.” Janye’s eyes met Conori’s. “Albus was tied to a chair. He was
beaten and tortured until death released him. I can still hear him, begging for
my freedom. His last words were for me.”
Conori threw her head back, tears slowly going down her
face. Eyes firmly closed, she fought the images now revealed to her. Feeling
Janye’s soft touch wiping her tears, only then did she open her eyes. Janye had
moved close. Now cradling her face with both hands, Janye kissed her.
Conori tried to fight her own desires and was unable. She returned the kiss,
pulling Janye into her arms, one hand already weaving itself into her blonde
hair. Breaking the kiss, but still holding her, Conori murmured, “No Janye, I
am double your turns in age. You should have…”
Conori’s words were halted by Janye’s fingers on her lips.
“My Queen, you are eternal to me, and the only one I desire.” No further words
were spoken as both reclined on the sleeping furs … lost in each other.
From the hut’s balcony, Janye watched the Amazon camp begin
to brighten with dawn. It still seemed like she had just arrived, but as Conori
reminded her last night … they had been together for two turns.
She loved Conori so completely…life before her seemed
colorless, with no substance or meaning. Except for dear Albus.
She’d dressed in her newest leather tunic. A gift from
Conori’s arms slipped around her from behind. “You leave me
too soon. Even Diana is not awake.” Conori enjoyed holding her. Janye had
blossomed into a beautiful woman, and Conori felt blessed to have her near.
Janye hugged Conori’s arms even closer. “I was remembering being here two turns
ago. How I first saw you smiling down at me. I think I loved you even then.”
She turned and Conori cupped her face with both hands. “My
Songbird. I gave you little choice. Keeping you from all except
“And I love you Conori. With all that I am.”
Their eyes sparkled with tears as dawn continued to lighten
the day.
__
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
The author, Leya Irish Bard, is a new author making her
debut with a recently published Ebook, “Amazon Tale” at: www.thereaderstretreat.com.
This short story shared with us, “Amazon Tale – Janye’s Awakening,” is a
modified slice from her novel. Her motivation for sharing it with our readers?
“I wanted to show the Amazons in a different view…as a society. And I wanted to
show a romance in that setting.” Leya admits being happily caught up with her
characters. “One story grew into four. The novel is over 90,000 words, and a
second one already started.” Leya encourages all authors to follow their
dreams. “If I can get published – so can you!” she says. Leya lives in
************************************************************************
FEATURE
ARTICLE
In Part 3 of Dr. Tony Fiore’s Series, “How to Deal With
Difficult People,” he will tell you exactly what passive-aggression is, and how
to deal and cope with a person or people in your life who are like this,
whether they themselves know it or not…
“HOW
TO DEAL WITH DIFFICULT PEOPLE: PART 3 – THE PASSIVE-AGGRESSIVE”
Written by Dr. Tony Fiore
Copyright 2005 by Dr. Tony Fiore – www.AngerCoach.com
Thirty-three year old Roberto had promised his wife Tina
that he would be home after work in time for her to attend her weekly “women’s
group” at her church. Having only one automobile, Tina was completely at the
mercy of Roberto’s promise.
You guessed it! Roberto did not show up until 8:45 PM-
way too late for Tina to attend her meeting. Rather than being apologetic,
however, Roberto explained to Tina (who was outraged at this point) that he
“couldn’t help it” because “I had to help a friend out who’s car had broken
down.” He lamented, “How could I let Michael down? He was best man at our
wedding.”
Was Tina being unreasonable in her anger? After all, Roberto
was helping out a mutual friend. Yet, looking deeper into this situation, turns
out that Roberto really didn’t want Tina to attend those meetings because it
was “putting ideas into her head.”
Yet, he couldn’t just forbid Tina from attending, so he
handled the situation in an underhanded way-sabotaging her attendance in a way
that would still make him look good.
After all, he could argue, what reasonable person would get
mad at someone who was late because he was helping out a friend?
The Anatomy Of Passive Aggression
Passive-Aggression is a psychological mechanism for handling
hostility or anger in an underhanded or devious way that is hard for others to
prove. Sometimes the passive-aggressive is aware of what he or she is doing,
and other times not.
Yet, the result is the same-things are sabotaged by the
passive-aggressive and it somehow is never their fault. A really good passive
aggressive is very slipper with excuses, justifications, or alternative reasons
for why things go awry.
Passive-Aggression may not be expressed directly in behavior-but
in words or humor. Sarcasm which communicates hostility is often a tool of the
passive-aggressive person, as are jokes made at your expense.
Some common examples of passive-aggressive behavior:
* When conversing with someone who is angry at you, they
leave out important information which gives you the wrong impression.
* Talking behind the back of a coworker in a harmful
way-gossiping.
* Exaggerating the faults of your spouse (behind his or her
back) to your parents while maintaining “sweetness” toward your spouse.
* Playing dumb or inadequate to frustrate someone or gain
advantage..
* Upset with your wife’s weight, you “affectionately” call
her “pork chop” in public in a way that appears playful on the surface.
Dealing with passive-aggressive behavior is extremely
challenging because a really good passive aggressive is very slippery. Often,
too, you may not be sure if you have been the victim of passive aggressive
behavior- or not. You may be feeling angry and upset,but not sure why or if it
is justified.
How do you tell? One way to identify it is to look for
patterns in someone’s behavior – not just isolated incidents. For instance, if
Roberto generally is dependable and is home on time for Tina to attend her
meetings, the one “miss” may not be motivated by passive-aggression. However,
if he often sabotages Tina’s attendance while denying he is doing so, a
behavior pattern is evident. What should you do to deal with passive-aggression
once you have identified it?
Three tips to cope with passive-aggressive behavior:
Tip #1 – Directly confront the behavior and ask if the
person is angry at you. For instance, ask “You called me pork chop tonight. Do
you have issues with my weight?”
Tip #2 – Be on guard and don’t trust what the person says or
commits to. Develop a Plan B. For instance, Tina could have arranged for
someone else to pick her up for the meeting in case Roberto didn’t make it home
on time.
Tip #3 – Use assertive communication skills to let a person
know how what they do affects you and makes you feel. Try something like “I
heard you repeat something that I told you in confidence. That really hurt me;
please don’t do it again because I would like to trust you.”
2005 © Dr. Tony Fiore. All rights reserved.
__
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dr. Tony Fiore is The Anger Coach. New anger resources
are now available Anger Management for the 21st Century: The 8 Tools
of Anger Control print and ebook, bonuses www.stopyouranger.com.
Check our Anger in the News blog and comment at: http://www.angernews.com.
************************************************************************
ARTICLES
Many of us sabotage our plans for success by worrying excessively
about our credit score. The author, Pamela Stewart, shows you seven (7) ways to
build a healthy relationship with money so that you stop beating yourself up
and start realizing your dreams…
“DO
YOU DEFINE YOURSELF BY YOUR CREDIT SCORE?”
Written by Pamela Stewart
Copyright © 2005 by Pamela Stewart – www.escapefromcubiclenation.com
The other day I was conducting a telephone seminar on how to
take back the power in your career for a group of employees in a non-profit
organization that was undergoing rapid change. We had just walked through an
exercise about creating a vision of your ideal work, without the constraints of
silly things like reality. I asked if there were any questions and got one from
a very bright employee named Patrick.
“This is a great exercise for some people, but I can’t even
begin to define a vision of my perfect work.”
I asked Patrick why it was so hard.
“I have lots of student loan debt and some credit card debt.
Who could I possibly get interested to fund my dreams? I don’t want to ask my
parents to lend me money since they have done enough already.”
What was NOT said on the phone was more powerful than what
was said. Patrick is a smart, capable, caring and perceptive young man who is
already doing great things with his life. But he had convinced himself that
since he was in a tough financial situation, he didn’t have permission to even
imagine what a perfect life would look like.
Since when did your credit score become the required pass to
a better life?
The financial part of your life is one area where there is a
public, accessible record of all your past behaviors and decisions, good and
bad. Every move you make financially is carefully tracked and recorded. And as
a society, we place a huge weight on this score, since to us it suggests a
level of maturity, responsibility and, I would argue, moral superiority.
Let me tell you straight: your credit score is not a
reflection of your worth as a human being.
So stop placing the emotional weight on what you did wrong,
which often leads to more destructive behavior, and start loving yourself!
How do you build a positive relationship with money?
* Recognize that money is a powerful energy that has to be
respected. If you feel like money is scarce, it will become that way. When you
receive it, be grateful and do not close your eyes and spend it on things that
are not healthy for you. Keep your wallet clean and your bills neatly ordered.
* Look straight in the eye of your financial situation. Add
up all of your credit cards, home, auto or personal loan debt. Write the number
down and look at it intently. Figure out you current monthly or annual salary
and make a plan to slowly but steadily pay down your debt. Get copies of your
credit report and note the specific things that contributed to a negative
score. Track your expenses on a monthly basis and become familiar with your
spending patterns.
* When your bills come, immediately open the envelope and
look at the amount and date due. Throw away any filler paper that is included
and keep your current bills in a basket right by the place where you pay bills.
You will add to fear and denial if you let your bills sit unopened in a big
pile of messy papers.
* Automate your banking. I found that many people with money
problems have a hard time balancing their checkbooks. If you have online
banking, you can see transactions on a daily basis, and can better manage your
cash flow.
* Focus on prosperity and abundance, not dollars. What you
want is abundance in your life in all areas; love, compassion, fun, energy,
relationships and health. Money is just the means to an end; it is not the end
itself.
* Pay attention to the words that you say about money.
Prosperity is attracted to a spirit of humility and gratitude. Look at the
difference in these words:
I don’t know how I am ever going to pay my bills
Versus
How could I make money to pay my bills?
I am so sick of paying out so much money every month
Versus
I am thankful that I have the money to pay bills that put
a roof over my head, keep me warm, fed and clothed
I will never have enough money
versus
I am thankful for my health, my family, my home (or
insert any other thing in your life you are grateful for)
* Give some money away. Now this probably seems like a crazy
suggestion. If you are short on money, why in the world would you want to give
any away? It doesn’t matter if you give $1 or $100. The important thing is to
give it away and expect nothing in return. Relish in the feeling of giving and
how good it feels to let money go to a good cause.
Being financially responsible is not about living up to
anyone’s standard of perfection. It is about respecting and valuing yourself,
protecting your interests and leaving many doors open for you to do whatever it
is you want to do: travel, buy a home, provide for your children, or start a
business. A good credit score is a great thing when you approach it from the
right perspective.
© 2005 Pamela Stewart. All rights reserved.
__
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
The author, Pamela Stewart, is a seasoned corporate
consultant with a new mission in life: help corporate warriors to become
thriving entrepreneurs! To take a free assessment “Test Your Small Business
Start-up IQ” and get other valuable tools, go to www.ganas.com/freestuff.
Read Pamela’s blog at www.escapefromcubiclenation.com.
************************************************************************
Home business expert, Kristie T., gives tips on how to plan
the perfect workspace; one that keeps you organized, inspires you, and boosts
your productivity.
“SETTING
UP YOUR DREAM HOME OFFICE SPACE”
Written by Kristie Tamsevicius
Copyright © 2005 by Kristie Tamsevicius – www.webmomz.com
One of the great privileges of the direct selling profession
is being able to work from home. But with the freedom of your career, also come
the challenges. The sink is full of dishes, your son left his crayons on your
desk, and the laundry is piled up in the corner. A well designed home office
will help you transition from the role of domestic goddess to high power
entrepreneurial executive. Just like Clark
But how can you plan the perfect workspace; one that keeps
you organized, inspires you, and boosts your productivity? Here are some rules
of thumb to follow when designing your home office space.
Plan a space that meets your needs.
* Space: Imagine your dream space. You have the
freedom to create the space of your dreams. Where is it? What items do you need
to have in it? Some questions to ask yourself are: what equipment you’ll need,
what things you’ll have to store, and how much privacy you’ll need. Do you need
to stay close so you can keep an eye on the kids? Do you need a meeting space?
Will you have customers or other consultants stopping by?
* Location. Choose a space in your home that
best supports those needs. Whether it’s a spare bedroom, a corner of the living
room, a large closet, an attic or a converted garage; find a room that has
enough space for the equipment and furniture you need.
* Storage. While not every direct seller needs
to keep inventory on hand, those that do know that having an organized space to
store products is critical. Make sure the space you choose has ample room for
shelving and storage. Think about the items you handle on a day-to-day basis in
your business. Now make a list of the items. Do you need a bookshelf or wall
holders for catalogs and brochures? With the proper space and containers to
keep your office tidy you’ll have a clutter-free, organized work space.
* Furniture. Next it’s time to outfit your work
space with a desk, bookcase, and filing cabinets. Today with the boom in home
based careers, there is such a variety of office furniture to choose from.
Whether it’s a simple desk, an office armoire, or a complete L-shaped unit,
make sure you’ll have the desktop space you need to keep key items at your
fingertips. Dare to splurge a little on getting yourself a comfortable and
ergonomically supportive chair. It’s a back-saver and worthwhile investment.
* Equipment. Plan a spot to put your
computer, phone, and fax. Buying an all-in-one printer/scanner/fax machine is a
smart choice that saves you desktop space and money!
Put it together in a way that makes sense.
* Placement. Decide what goes where. Place key
equipment in a way that flows with the way you work.
* Organization. One great way to stay organized
is to create centers for the tasks you frequently perform. For instance,
you might want to put all your brochures, order forms, and catalogs together in
one place. Other “centers” may include a mailing center, a faxing center, and a
printing center. Boxes and bins are great for keeping smaller office supplies
organized.
* Ergonomics. Place your keyboard, lighting, and
monitor at proper heights. By being good to your body, you can function at peak
performance without tiring as quickly or getting injured from incorrect
positioning.
Create an inspiring atmosphere you’ll love.
* Personalize. Now’s the chance you have been
waiting for to create the office of your dreams. Make your office a space that
truly inspires you. Little things make such a difference. Choose a paint color
that brings you joy. Pamper yourself with treasured photos, candles, and
artwork on the wall. Add a touch of romance and a dash of color with a potted
plant or vase with flowers on your desk. Finally, having inspirational quotes,
a dream map, and visual reminders of your goals can be powerful tools to keep
you motivated and on the track to success.
* Lean and tidy. There’s nothing like starting
the day with a clean desk. Try to get in the routine of either cleaning your
desk at the end of the day or doing a 5 minute tidy first thing in the morning.
By having a place for everything and everything in its place it’s easy to stay
organized and be more efficient.
* Lighting. Don’t skimp on lighting. In addition
to creating ambiance in the room, proper lighting keeps you from straining your
eyes. As well as having enough overhead lights, you’ll also want task lighting.
Today there’s a wonderful selection of stylish and functional lamps to choose
from.
Start Your Dream Office Today.
What are you waiting for? Get a jumpstart on your home
office now by taking the following actions in the next 48 hours.
* Walk around your home and visualize your office.
What space feels good and inspiring to you? Where can you see yourself spending
a lot of time and loving it? Choose the perfect space and clear it out.
* Flip through catalogs and magazines. Clip
pictures of furniture, décor, and items you’d like to include in your dream
office. By getting crystal clear on the intricate details of your perfect
workspace, it makes it easier to spot those items as you come across them.
* Shop around and look for smart buys. Scan the
newspapers, store fliers, and online office store coupons for sales and special
offers.
2005 © Kristie Tamsevicius. All rights reserved.
__
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Speaker, author, and consultant, Kristie Tamsevicius is an
entrepreneurial expert who has helped thousands of people to start and succeed
in their online businesses. She is the founder of Webmomz.com, president of
Branding on the Net, and author of several books: “I Love My Life: A Mom’s
Guide to Working from Home” and “Build it Big 2: 101 Insider Secrets from Top
Direct Sellers” (Dearborn Publishing – April 2006). Claim your Free Home
Business Success course and expert Work at-Home tips at: http://www.webmomz.com.
************************************************************************
“WHAT
IS THE QUALITY OF YOUR EXCUSES”?
Written by Margie Warrell
Copyright © 2005 by Margie Warrell – www.margiewarrell.com
What aspect of your life don’t you feel really great about?
Is it to do with your job and the direction of your career, a particular
relationship, your body or fitness level, how you manage your finances, where
you live? Or could it be the lack of balance you feel between your work and
family? Whatever it is I’d like you to think about something specific that you
would really like to change or improve in any aspect of your life – big or
small.
Now ask yourself what you could do over the course of the
next 12 months that would make a real difference to how you feel about this
area of your life. Aaaahh… but what’s that I hear you mumbling under your
breath? “I don’t have time… it doesn’t seem worth it… this is the way it has
always been… this is the way I have always been… what’s the point … I’m just
too busy to focus on this right now….”
Then consider this for a moment – the quality of your life
is determined by the quality of your excuses!
Now I’m not saying that you don’t have some great reasons
for why things are as they are. However, whilst you are prepared to put up with
parts of your life not being the way you’d love them to be – without any firm
and consistent actions toward improving them – you are selling yourself way
short and missing the boat on all you and your life could be.
As a Life Coach I hear a lot of excuses and see part of my
role as an “Excuse Buster” … of sorts (I don’t wear all the gear the
Ghostbusters did!). Often what lies at the core of our excuses and resistance
to taking proactive actions is fear. Fear of what it takes or of not being good
enough. If you experience a lot of self-doubt and fear about your ability to
accomplish something that inspires you then consider the following:
Your fears are driven by a positive intention to protect you
from pain. As humans, our fears have served the survival of our species –
otherwise we’d have been eaten by lions long ago. However, these days our
physical survival isn’t the focus of our fear as much as our emotional well
being. Our fears want to spare us from pain and discomfort … the pain of
rejection, the pain of failing, the pain of feeling foolish in front of our
peers. The problem is, though, your fears want to protect you from pain AT ANY
COST! Even the cost of living a half-lived life where you “settle for”
way less than you’d like, simply because to grasp at more involves risk…
risking failure, rejection, and all those things that make you squirm.
If we don’t own our own fears and self-doubts they will own
us. Instead of acknowledging them and how they may be trying to serve us,
we pretend we don’t feel them. Instead we look beyond ourselves to our external
circumstances and come up with plenty of excuses and reasons for why things
aren’t as we’d like them to be, and for our inaction to make them otherwise. We
then actively seek out evidence to support the validity of our excuses by
avoiding, ignoring or discrediting anything that might contradict them.
Ultimately we end up feeling resigned, convincing ourselves that it’s better to
stay with the status quo, despite its many shortcomings, than to try to make
things different. But what great accomplishments have ever been undertaken with
a guarantee of success?
Your fears want to keep you in your comfort zone, because in
there you aren’t at risk and you have what feels like perfect control. In your
comfort zone life is predictable. It may not be particularly exciting, but at
least it will be familiar. Perhaps there are things you’d like to do, yet you
find yourself shying from taking on new challenges simply because you aren’t
sure how to go about them. You get scared, you chicken out and you come up with
some great excuses … a lack of opportunity, the economy, your kids, the
government, your boss, your spouse, lack of education, your parents (aaah, that
one’s always a favorite!).
The irony is that we are our own biggest roadblocks in life.
Yes, the biggest obstacles you will ever encounter in living your life fully
are your own internal obstacles, what you choose to think! Yep, your
fears and limiting beliefs stop you way before any external circumstances you
may (or may not!) encounter.
Fear hates change, even change for the better, because all
change means moving beyond the familiar and predictable into something new. Your
fear of change can also explain some of the patterns of destructive behavior
that keep you repeating the same experience again and again (e.g. staying in
destructive relationships). You repeat the behavior because its familiar and
that’s where you’re comfortable. Is there another way? Of course. But first you
need to acknowledge why you have chosen to behave as you have in the past; you
need to identify the ‘payoff’ you’ve been getting (and there’s always a payoff
on some level!).
Courage is not absence of fear but action in spite of fear.
If you want to live a life truly rich in all that fills your heart and
expresses your own uniqueness, you must be prepared to take a step beyond the
familiar and leave your old excuses at the door. Only when we extend ourselves
beyond what we know we are good at, beyond what we are sure we’ll be successful
at, can we grow into all that we can be.
You have all the courage you need inside you to transform
your life into whatever it is that you want. You just have to tap into it.
Sure, none of us feel like ‘rocking the boat’ in our own lives but, sometimes,
it’s just what we are called to do if we are going to live our lives fully; if
we aren’t to deprive ourselves and the world of all that we can be. Sometimes
we need to swim against the current; step up to the high board and dive deep,
and trust in our own ability more than we have before. In the big picture of
your life, you ultimately CANNOT LOSE from stepping up to live a bigger life
than the one you live now.
Don’t give your excuses the power to stop you from doing
whatever it takes to transform your life into one you really love. Don’t let
them keep you from looking back on this year, and one day, your life, and
feeling absolutely fabulous about what you made of it. Begin today moving
toward being the best you can possibly be. Why today? Well, why not? If you
don’t, not only are you missing out on experiencing your true greatness but, so
am I and so is everyone else. Settling for “just okay” is NOT okay with me. Is
it for you?!
In the words of Samuel Johnston, nothing great would ever
have been accomplished if all possible objections had first been overcome. You
see, there will always be excuses, plenty of reasons “why not” to live a little
bigger, take a bit more risk, but where will that get you? So I ask you…
If you had no fear of failing, what goal would you love to
accomplish?
Excuse Busting Exercise
1. Get very clear on your goal by writing down what it
is you’d like to change/accomplish.
2. Write down all the excuses you’ve used for not
taking action on this before which may come up again.
3. Write down what those excuses have cost in terms of
how you feel about yourself and your life.
4. Write down the payoff (there is always a payoff!)
you’ve got from allowing those excuses to keep you in inaction (e.g. you’ve
avoided risking failure, you haven’t had to take full responsibility for where
you are, its been comfortable, familiar, etc.) and ask yourself if you’re ready
to let go of that payoff.
5. Challenge the logic and reasoning behind each of
your excuses; seek evidence that does not support their validity.
6. If one of your excuses is being “too busy” decide
what you are going to cut back on, or do differently, to create the time you
need to accomplish it (remember, sometimes we have to say “no” to the good to
make room for the great!).
7. Break down your goal into itty bitty steps and set
some deadlines against the first few.
8. Commit to taking at least one action every day,
beginning today, toward this goal.
9. Get support! Share your goal with someone (or
lots of people!) and ask them to hold you accountable until you’ve reached it.
2005 © Margie Warrell. All rights reserved.
__
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
The author, Margie Warrell, is an Executive & Life
Coach, Speaker and Writer who specializes in empowering women to find the
courage to pursue the goals that inspire them – personally and professionally –
with more success, fulfillment and balance…less the stress! To subscribe
to her Free Monthly Ezine or for more information, visit her at: http://www.margiewarrell.com.
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“ARE
YOU A ‘YES-DOG’?
Written by Suzanne Falter-Barns
Copyright © 2005 by Suzanne Falter-Barns – www.howmuchjoy.com
There was once a time (and there still is, to a certain
degree) when I would say ‘Yes’ to every opportunity, request, suggestion, good
idea, and even mediocre idea that came my way. And let me tell you, it was
exhausting!
It was like I had this automatic, knee-jerk reaction to
accommodate any suggestion that came my way – as if it were my karmic duty. I
call this auto-response being a ‘yes-dog.’
Perhaps you know the feeling.
When you’re a ‘yes-dog,’ your entire being is all about
making other people happy; you knock yourself out doing it. No task is too
small – you figure you’ve always got room in your psyche, your schedule or your
soul to squeeze in one more thing that someone wants to fit in. God forbid you
should say ‘no’ … for then that someone would be unhappy. Which would be
unthinkable.
Like a lot of creative people, I’m naturally empathetic – so
I could literally feel other people’s pain… an experience I simply wanted to
avoid as much as possible. For many years, I thought it was up to me to please
the rest of the world. I literally thought it was my job to be a ‘yes-dog.’
These days, I’m taking a much more circumspect view. I’ve
come to the realization that I simply can’t live my soul purpose AND make the
rest of the world happy all the time.
And I realize that being a ‘yes-dog’ doesn’t always make the
rest of the world happy – even in my little corner. The more well known I get,
and the wider my reach, the more I can see it. There is always someone,
somewhere, who has a problem with what I’m doing. And therein lays the
breakthrough.
I am no longer uncomfortable with other people’s pain. I
mean, it’s not like I relish it; but I don’t run to avoid it. I’ve come to
realize we all have a path, and a learning process we’re going through. This
means my entire job is nothing more than to be authentic, listen to my gut, and
act accordingly. Not only will I not make everyone happy … I can’t!
If someone is upset by this, it’s no longer a big
problem. Rather, it’s simply the way their path is rubbing up against my
path; it’s part of life, growth, and karma. So I have nothing to fear.
My friend Joan Sotkin has a saying, “I don’t always have to
be the one who’s uncomfortable here.” Amen! Since I’ve given up
being a ‘yes-dog,’ and let go of the need to be ‘the one who’s always
uncomfortable,’ great things have begun to stream my way. My reach, my income,
my productivity and my impact in the world have gone up in quantum leaps.
Best of all, I’ve relaxed as I go about my business. ‘No’ is
not scary anymore – it’s empowering. And ironically enough, the world has not
turned on me in anger and resentment … it’s actually stepped right up to my
door and truly embraced what I’m doing.
Are you a ‘yes-dog’? Take my handy quiz below to assess
where you are. And may I suggest a step away from that easy little word, to one
that can be equally empowering: “No.”
The Are You a ‘Yes-Dog’? Questionnaire
1. Do you find it hard to say no to your children,
even when they’re making unreasonable demands.
a) Always
b) Occasionally
c) Rarely
d) Never
2. Do you long to be able to tell your boss exactly
what you think … but you just can’t?
a) Always
b) Occasionally
c) Rarely
d) Never
3. Do you find it impossible to deny yourself
‘forbidden’ pleasures – i.e. Ben & Jerry’s ice cream when you’re dieting –
even if you’ve made a decision not to indulge?
a) Always
b) Occasionally
c) Rarely
d) Never
4. Do your friends tell you that you’re a pushover,
and advise you to stand firm?
a) Always
b) Occasionally
c) Rarely
d) Never
5. Do you get a queasy feeling in your gut when
someone asks you to do something that’s just not a good fit for you … and then
inevitably cave in despite your feelings?
a) Always
b) Occasionally
c) Rarely
d) Never
6. Are you uncomfortable asking for more money or more
responsibility around your work?
a) Always
b) Occasionally
c) Rarely
d) Never
7. Are you always the person who volunteers even when
you don’t want to?
a) Always
b) Occasionally
c) Rarely
d) Never
8. Are there things you long to do in life, but you
simply can’t find the time or the courage to get to them?
a) Always
b) Occasionally
c) Rarely
d) Never
Rate your answers:
For every a) give yourself 10 points. For every b) give
yourself 7 points. For every c) give yourself 4 points. For every d) give
yourself 1 point.
If your score is 60-80, you’re probably saying ‘Yes’ WAY
more often than you want to. Consider getting some coaching on how to say ‘no’
from a good friend, life coach or partner.
If your score is 20-40, you’ve got most situations pretty
well in hand. Try saying ‘No’ just a little more often and see what happens.
If your score is 0-20, you’re doing great! Your ability to
monitor when to say ‘Yes’ and when to say ‘No’ is truly inspiring.
© 2005 Suzanne Falter-Barns LLC.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
For information on how to find the time, energy, and money
to live your purpose in life, check out Suzanne Falter-Barns’ Free Ezine, “The
Joy Letter.” Sign up at http://www.howmuchjoy.com/joyletter.html and
receive her valuable report, “35 Guaranteed Time Savers.” Also get a daily
blast of joyful tips from the “Blast o’ Joy” blog at: http://selfhelpsalon.typepad.com/blast_o_joy/.
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“THE
BEST KEPT WEB SITE MARKETING SECRET”
Written by Charlie Cook
Copyright © 2006 by Charlie Cook – www.marketingforsuccess.com
If you have a web site that’s not pulling in prospects and
sales, I have a marketing secret to share with you. Your sales and pr0fits will
increase as soon as you apply it. Whether you’re marketing on the web, in
print or in person, you are guaranteed to improve your web site marketing and
make more sales.
Here it is: people buy from you when you give them
what they want. Sounds obvious, but most people don’t apply this secret to
their online and offline marketing.
Many people think that the quickest way to improve their web
site marketing and increase sales is to convince or ‘sell’ more prospects.
Trying to convince people to buy your products and services is hard, not much
fun and rarely works. In fact, this approach repels the majority of people who
may actually want the products and services you provide.
Your prospects are like you; they want and need to buy
services and products, but hardly anyone wants to be ‘sold.’
When a prospect reads your brochure or visits your web site,
they are thinking about their needs and desires. Once you focus your marketing
on giving your prospects what they want, you’ll see a leap in responses and in
sales.
Think about your products and services. Why do people want
them? What’s the first and most important concern your prospects have? What are
their secondary concerns? Can you help them solve each of these problems and
get what they want?
Look at your ads, brochures, or web site. Ask yourself the
same questions prospects ask themselves when they view your web site marketing
materials;
- What is in it for me?
- Does the first sentence give me a reason to keep
reading?
- Does the photo make me believe this firm has what I
want?
What is the most prominent element on the home page of your
web site or the cover of your brochure? In most cases, it will be your
company’s name. Does your company name describe your prospects’ biggest
concern? Does it give them a reason to believe you have what they want?
Imagine you wanted to open a new bank account in your hometown.
On
Bank A’s sign says –
Bank B’s sign says – HIGH YIELD SAVINGS, IMMEDIATE ONLINE
SUCCESS
Which one would you choose? Bank B grabs your attention by talking
about the services and results that meet your needs. They’ve made the sale.
There are dozens of reasons people buy. You may hire a
business coach to help you make more m0ney, a personal trainer to become a
better golfer or tennis player. You may buy a new computer to increase your
company’s productivity or a high definition TV to give yourself greater viewing
enjoyment. Identify the reasons people buy your products and services,
and it’s like finding the key to sales.
What’s the biggest secret to attracting all the clients you
want?
Stop trying to convince your prospects to buy and instead
focus on giving them what they want. Once they see you as helping them, they’ll
help you by buying your products and services.
2006 © In Mind Communications, LLC. All rights reserved.
__
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
The author, Charlie Cook, helps small business owners and
web marketing professionals attract more clients and be more successful. Sign
up to receive his Free Small Business Marketing Ideas Ebook, “7 Steps to Get
More Clients and Grow Your Business” at: http://www.marketingforsuccess.com.
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