Hey, now I'm listening.
non-fiction32 total reviews
Comment from perpetualwallflower
My goodness you are certainly a very hard worker. I really liked this story and I like the rules that you live by, they are really good rules. Bravo!
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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My goodness you are certainly a very hard worker. I really liked this story and I like the rules that you live by, they are really good rules. Bravo!
Comment Written 19-Oct-2014
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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Hi PWF,
thank you for you kind comments and review, most appreciated.
With our thoughts we create,
our own destiny,
James xx.
Comment from Jay Squires
There is a sense of authenticity in your writing that lets the reader know you've been there. You are quick to show y our failings, and in a humorous way. So, from the content side, this was certainly well-written! Structurally, and grammatically, there are some areas I tried to point out to you where some work needs to be done. I'm not an expert an any of these areas -- have just been writing for well over 50 years. So, let's have a go at it:
a happily- ever-after story. [picky, picky... a tiny spacing error between "happily" and "ever"]
It just didn't happen--- this injury was cultivated. [[Good lead in... I'm sorry, painful, but from the writing standpoint, good, effective. >> By the way, only use a two dash separation, never three.]
Rule number two: Paragraph space needed here and before rule three (and any time there is a new paragraph).
Your three rules for survival are sterling! The problem I can see would be with the third. There should be a margin between productive thinking and "getting lost in the bush". Without that margin, recklessness enters.
coming back from-- it's something [Again, pickiness, but be consistent in your spacing between dashes. The two dashes (called EM dashes)either need to have a space before AND after or no space at all. Two paragraphs above you didn't have any spaces.]
It's not how many times we fall [Paragraph space]
And I'm the first to say, there's so many [there ARE so many...]
have it worse than me, [have it worse than I {implied: "have it"}]
keeps me focussed on the bigger picture. [keeps me FOCUSED]
On the way out of the house, [Paragraph space]
hurdling medium strips [hurdlng MEDIAN strips]
Eight months later and here I am [another paragraph space error... you'll need to go in manually and make these corrections. It makes the writing so much more professional when properly spaced. In the interest of time, I won't mention them again, though.]
Because I have to be consistent in my reviewing, I needed to deduct a star for the SPAG. However, if you let me know you've made the corrections, I'll be thrilled to give you back your star.
You are a good writer with a good message.
*********************************************************
Here you go, my friend. And, by the way, thanks for the reviewer vote. Much appreciated.
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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There is a sense of authenticity in your writing that lets the reader know you've been there. You are quick to show y our failings, and in a humorous way. So, from the content side, this was certainly well-written! Structurally, and grammatically, there are some areas I tried to point out to you where some work needs to be done. I'm not an expert an any of these areas -- have just been writing for well over 50 years. So, let's have a go at it:
a happily- ever-after story. [picky, picky... a tiny spacing error between "happily" and "ever"]
It just didn't happen--- this injury was cultivated. [[Good lead in... I'm sorry, painful, but from the writing standpoint, good, effective. >> By the way, only use a two dash separation, never three.]
Rule number two: Paragraph space needed here and before rule three (and any time there is a new paragraph).
Your three rules for survival are sterling! The problem I can see would be with the third. There should be a margin between productive thinking and "getting lost in the bush". Without that margin, recklessness enters.
coming back from-- it's something [Again, pickiness, but be consistent in your spacing between dashes. The two dashes (called EM dashes)either need to have a space before AND after or no space at all. Two paragraphs above you didn't have any spaces.]
It's not how many times we fall [Paragraph space]
And I'm the first to say, there's so many [there ARE so many...]
have it worse than me, [have it worse than I {implied: "have it"}]
keeps me focussed on the bigger picture. [keeps me FOCUSED]
On the way out of the house, [Paragraph space]
hurdling medium strips [hurdlng MEDIAN strips]
Eight months later and here I am [another paragraph space error... you'll need to go in manually and make these corrections. It makes the writing so much more professional when properly spaced. In the interest of time, I won't mention them again, though.]
Because I have to be consistent in my reviewing, I needed to deduct a star for the SPAG. However, if you let me know you've made the corrections, I'll be thrilled to give you back your star.
You are a good writer with a good message.
*********************************************************
Here you go, my friend. And, by the way, thanks for the reviewer vote. Much appreciated.
Comment Written 19-Oct-2014
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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Hi Jay,
yeah, the intent is there, but I am still very much a fledgling when it come to the technical side of writing... so I am always appreciative of any help and guidance that comes my way... I thank you for your time and effort on this review... every little bit helps to my betterment... I thank you my friend... and yes, I did go in and rectify my spags.
With our thoughts we create,
our own destiny,
James.
Comment from GeorgieBoy
I enjoyed this piece, it certainly related to my circumstances at the moment. One thing puzzles me, you said earlier in the piece not to reflect, but later that is what you do exactly. One or the other.
Saying that there are so many wonderful kernels of wisdom that you depart:Attitude is crucial to healing.There is but one option: to look forward. This is runs true to all of us. By the way, I liked the way you made us all feel we were having a conversation with you.
Typo: focused:
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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I enjoyed this piece, it certainly related to my circumstances at the moment. One thing puzzles me, you said earlier in the piece not to reflect, but later that is what you do exactly. One or the other.
Saying that there are so many wonderful kernels of wisdom that you depart:Attitude is crucial to healing.There is but one option: to look forward. This is runs true to all of us. By the way, I liked the way you made us all feel we were having a conversation with you.
Typo: focused:
Comment Written 19-Oct-2014
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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Hey there Georgie boy,
sorry I couldn't resist... I know, I'm bad.
Thanks for you kind review and comments.... most appreciated.
Hope your circumstances improve to a satisfactory condition.
I didn't actually say not to reflect, but I take your meaning.
With our thoughts we create,
our own destiny,
James.
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you are welcome. Take care
Comment from gypsycaravan
I was enthralled with your story of pain, progress, regression, progression, self flagellation and finally some self reinforcement. You've been through it all. I hope your brain (self talk) and body continue to go forward one step at a time.
A couple suggestions:
1. "What, did I think I was invincible or something?" I think this would read more powerfully as two sentences --"What? Did I think I was invincible or something?"
2. "causing a bit or a ruckus,"--I think the word "or" should be of"
Very well written story for the contest.
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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I was enthralled with your story of pain, progress, regression, progression, self flagellation and finally some self reinforcement. You've been through it all. I hope your brain (self talk) and body continue to go forward one step at a time.
A couple suggestions:
1. "What, did I think I was invincible or something?" I think this would read more powerfully as two sentences --"What? Did I think I was invincible or something?"
2. "causing a bit or a ruckus,"--I think the word "or" should be of"
Very well written story for the contest.
Comment Written 19-Oct-2014
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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Hi Gypsy,
thanks for your kind and helpful review, it is most appreciated... how's the weather up there? Warming up yet?
With our thoughts we create,
our own destiny,
James xx
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Thank goodness, weather is beginning to cool off. I'm in Florida.
Comment from N.K. Wagner
Ah, Jumbo, I live with a guy just like you. Except he jumped out of airplanes for 20-some years.
If you beat your body to death, expect it to fail, eventually.
But there is hope. At 65, he's just rehabed from a lumbar spinal fusion (a year's recovery) and is backpacking again and about to go on a scuba diving trip to St. Croix. He still has herniated discs in his neck, a replaced knee and multiple rotator cuff repairs to both shoulders.
My point is, recovery will occur, but you're going to have to remember pain is no longer a sign of getting stronger - it's a sign of something being damaged.
Hang in there. :) Nancy
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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Ah, Jumbo, I live with a guy just like you. Except he jumped out of airplanes for 20-some years.
If you beat your body to death, expect it to fail, eventually.
But there is hope. At 65, he's just rehabed from a lumbar spinal fusion (a year's recovery) and is backpacking again and about to go on a scuba diving trip to St. Croix. He still has herniated discs in his neck, a replaced knee and multiple rotator cuff repairs to both shoulders.
My point is, recovery will occur, but you're going to have to remember pain is no longer a sign of getting stronger - it's a sign of something being damaged.
Hang in there. :) Nancy
Comment Written 19-Oct-2014
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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Hi Nancy,
it sounds like you know the drill and I'm very happy for your 'guy's' recovery and outlook... he sounds like a hard one to tether down.
I know only too well, what I have done over the years is going to come back to have a bite, so hopefully now, I do listen and act accordingly... I have always been that guy that has the comeback ability, this is just another one of those lessons.
Thank you so much for your wonderful review, it is most appreciated... and I will try to flashing signs from now on.
With our thoughts we create,
our own destiny,
James xx
Comment from Jackarrie
Hi James,
You have written a very good essay on your life, your misfortunes etc. I emphasise with you as I have had years of pain and limitations. Many surgeries, that has left me with limited movement. I know it can be worse for men who have a family depending on him. You come across as being a positive person. I am pleased, because the revise only brings more pain and suffering. In the final analysis we must learn a new way to think before we master a new way to be. The best way to replenish your body is to give it what it most needs ie Rest, sleep, and life giving nourishment, the joy of movement, no matter how limited that may be. You are right to acknowledge there are far worse situations.
I wish you the best of luck in the contest, and in life.
Mary,
a deserved six.
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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Hi James,
You have written a very good essay on your life, your misfortunes etc. I emphasise with you as I have had years of pain and limitations. Many surgeries, that has left me with limited movement. I know it can be worse for men who have a family depending on him. You come across as being a positive person. I am pleased, because the revise only brings more pain and suffering. In the final analysis we must learn a new way to think before we master a new way to be. The best way to replenish your body is to give it what it most needs ie Rest, sleep, and life giving nourishment, the joy of movement, no matter how limited that may be. You are right to acknowledge there are far worse situations.
I wish you the best of luck in the contest, and in life.
Mary,
a deserved six.
Comment Written 19-Oct-2014
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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Hi Mary,
thank you for a most sage like review... I loved 'we must learn a new way to think before we master a new way to be... a couple more syllables and you have a great naani.
99.9% of the time I am a very positive person who has overcome many stumbling block, or should I say run threw them, this is just the one I find myself in now... hopefully I listen and heed the warnings... and yes, there are far worse situations.
Thank you my dear friend, I appreciate the comments, sentiments and stars in recognition of my journey.
With our thoughts we create,
our own destiny,
James xx
Comment from Spiritual Echo
If you could erase the concept that work is physical and that a man can only take pride in physical accomplishment where a sweat is a badge of honour, you'd have to stand and give yourself a pat on the back for this essay. You suffered through 2400 words to produce an excellent essay, scrubbing each sentence until it reflected the purity of your intent. Well done.
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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If you could erase the concept that work is physical and that a man can only take pride in physical accomplishment where a sweat is a badge of honour, you'd have to stand and give yourself a pat on the back for this essay. You suffered through 2400 words to produce an excellent essay, scrubbing each sentence until it reflected the purity of your intent. Well done.
Comment Written 19-Oct-2014
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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Hi Ingrid,
as you probably know this story could have gone another 2400 words without a blink, but then one might think I was just making it all up... when I look back on a injury packed life, I too wonder how I made it through at all... and I haven't even got to the two times I've been run down by cars and the gutless men who didn't want to fight fairly... but yes, that is another story.
Thank you very much for the wonderful review and all of your guidance... you my dear friend are truly appreciated.
With our thoughts we create,
our own destiny,
James xx
Comment from Ranwolf
This is an excellent piece of work. So many people should read and apply this. I am disabled, had I headed the warning signs, I may be living a normal life now. But I didn't. I was a workaholic. I felt bad, so what. Work had to be done. I was okay. I wasn't going to sit at home when my job required me to be there. I worked third shift with another man, just two of us. No back ups. If one didn't show the other had double the work. Was it worth it? NO! If only to go back. I wish people who are like us now would read this, and maybe they would save themselves a lot of pain and at least have a normal life. You did a great job on this.
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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This is an excellent piece of work. So many people should read and apply this. I am disabled, had I headed the warning signs, I may be living a normal life now. But I didn't. I was a workaholic. I felt bad, so what. Work had to be done. I was okay. I wasn't going to sit at home when my job required me to be there. I worked third shift with another man, just two of us. No back ups. If one didn't show the other had double the work. Was it worth it? NO! If only to go back. I wish people who are like us now would read this, and maybe they would save themselves a lot of pain and at least have a normal life. You did a great job on this.
Comment Written 19-Oct-2014
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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Hi Ranwolf,
I know your story so well... wait, it's mine as well... been used as a pack-horse was in part to blame, but letting one's self to be used in that manner is the real culprit... we have created the pitfalls to our journey through a misguided feeling of obligation... and believe me, I know how hard it is to say no... that's the hard part, changing that thought... yet the journey continues and yes we're still in the game, not in the same way, but hopefully in a way where we can survive intact with our heads held high... there's no going back, only forward... all the best to you my friend, life is what you make it... make it good!
Thank you for your very fine review... and for sharing your story... I'd like to hear the expanded story of your circumstances... get to writing!
With our thoughts we create,
our own destiny,
James.
Comment from royowen
I agree with you, you're absolutely right about not regretting the past, because that's where it belongs, it's not profitable to look backwards, And I think playing competitive sport teaches you to never look at what you can't change, only what you can! However, I do think that life has dealt you a rough hand! Great biography, I enjoyed it, the story is well designed and composed, the narrative articulate and flowed nicely, absorbing and readable, well done, blessings, Roy.
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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I agree with you, you're absolutely right about not regretting the past, because that's where it belongs, it's not profitable to look backwards, And I think playing competitive sport teaches you to never look at what you can't change, only what you can! However, I do think that life has dealt you a rough hand! Great biography, I enjoyed it, the story is well designed and composed, the narrative articulate and flowed nicely, absorbing and readable, well done, blessings, Roy.
Comment Written 19-Oct-2014
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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Hi Roy,
thank you my friend for a very likable review... your sentiment hit the mark... life is full of experiences and lessons, if we're listening and watching carefully with measured consciousness, we might just make it through... truly appreciated Roy.
With our thoughts we create,
our own destiny,
James.
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Your'e most welcome, James,
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Your'e most welcome, James,
Comment from SueZen
Good, positive write, in which no doubt many shall recognize a great deal concerning their own journey through life. We are all so conditioned from birth on wards to believe what others believe to be true, without questioning. Until we DO start doubting & questioning, we shall remain in the dark & continue to live an illusion, disregarding our intuition (inner voice), the wisdom of many evolved beings/teachers from all ages. We can read thousands of books on how to heal, grow, let go, progress, come to truly know ourselves, etc. But unless we do 'the work', change our perception from who we & others are only too keen to tell us who we should, ought to be, conform to, etc. we shall continue to 'live a lie' & not only deceive ourselves, but others too. I call that: loss of innate integrity.
If interested, could suggest some books/teachings that have greatly helped me on my road to 'awakening' from conditioning to awareness, etc. Yes, Lao Tzu is always within reach & read in daily ! We are all pupils & teachers in the school of life, energetically, spiritually connected to the WHOLE, here on earth as physical manifestations & above as invisible entities. Listen to & take care of your soul & heart....
This rating does not count towards story rating or author rank.
The highest and the lowest rating are not included in calculations.
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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Good, positive write, in which no doubt many shall recognize a great deal concerning their own journey through life. We are all so conditioned from birth on wards to believe what others believe to be true, without questioning. Until we DO start doubting & questioning, we shall remain in the dark & continue to live an illusion, disregarding our intuition (inner voice), the wisdom of many evolved beings/teachers from all ages. We can read thousands of books on how to heal, grow, let go, progress, come to truly know ourselves, etc. But unless we do 'the work', change our perception from who we & others are only too keen to tell us who we should, ought to be, conform to, etc. we shall continue to 'live a lie' & not only deceive ourselves, but others too. I call that: loss of innate integrity.
If interested, could suggest some books/teachings that have greatly helped me on my road to 'awakening' from conditioning to awareness, etc. Yes, Lao Tzu is always within reach & read in daily ! We are all pupils & teachers in the school of life, energetically, spiritually connected to the WHOLE, here on earth as physical manifestations & above as invisible entities. Listen to & take care of your soul & heart....
This rating does not count towards story rating or author rank.
The highest and the lowest rating are not included in calculations.
Comment Written 19-Oct-2014
reply by the author on 20-Oct-2014
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Hi Susan,
yes, you may suggest some books/teachings... this is where my mind becomes motivated towards being a better version of my ever changing self... I am always on the ready to be awakened to the path of a measured consciousness... so yes indeed, suggest away.
Thank you for this very sage-like review my friend, I appreciated every word of wisdom... and I know my innate integrity holds strong... I will never be a sheep, I am a goat, a climber of mountains!
With our thoughts we create,
our own destiny,
James xx
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Dear James, thank you so much for lovely reply/message!
Believe we are on similar wavelength, as can relate to everything you say, truly ! Do you have people close by who are on your wavelength ? I don't & can feel rather lonely now & then. Oh, by the way, I am on Skype & today saw "a James" in right corner down below of laptop requesting me to connect to ??? Strange, as have no James among my Skype-friends, so ignored, for obvious reasons. Bit late in the day (here in France), but shall come back to you concerning books, videos on Youtube, etc. which I believe might interest you.
Love 'n Light Sue xxx
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Hi Sue,
well it definitely wasn't this James, haven't really come into the skype age as yet... Wavelength? hmmmmm, there are some that teeter on the edge, but no, not on the same frequency... I am a bit of a loner in that respect... I do have a wonderfully supportive wife, who is also my best friend, but even there my wave lengths have their limits... but in saying that she also 'gets me' which I don't think a lot of people take time to do... so it is a real treat when I meet like-minded souls... I know there's a lot of us out there, but I figure the universe has scattered us to the four winds for a good reason... maybe to expand the minds of others? Take care dear friend... talk soon... James xx
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Oh yes James, your last sentence rings home on a profound level. Oh yes, quite a few of us out there scattered around to proclaim the message of the Universe (Great Spirit as Native Indians named it)& LIVE UP to it by example, in our deeds, thoughts, etc. I'm on barren ground here, no one interested in what interests me, stuck in habitual ways of living, thinking, etc. Nice, gentle folk, but not in sync with my awareness & vibrational frequency, that of Nature, our planet, other dimensions, beyond so-called 'normal' ways of thinking, feeling/sensing, perceiving, understanding, i.e. non-rational, non-intellectual...Does that make sense to you James ? By nature I'm a jolly, positive, gentle, social person who enjoys interacting with others, but increasingly becoming a bit of a loner too, as so bored with MONOLOGUES about all that's wrong, petty problems, politics, personal suffering, disasters, etc. etc. No wonder soaps are so popular, just a reflection of the lives of so many, so people 'identify' with - HELP !!! As I continue to evolve/progress I, obviously, feel increasingly lonely on a physical level, but OK, accept as part of the journey & on a spiritual level don't feel lonely at all, because I am aware of & synchronize with other realities. Shall now try to 'imagine' which books can serve you best. They are only doors to be opened, for ultimately your soul already knows all you need to know. If you have a land line & want to talk to me, just let me know & shall ring you for free, as included in my internet subscription. As for books, to start with (maybe) Eckhart Tolle's 1/The Power of Now 2/ A New Earth. Love 'n Light, Namaste Sue