Hamlet. Act I. Polonius tells his son Laertes, "To thine own self be true." Truer words were never spoken, whether on a Shakespearean stage or otherwise. Nevermind that Polonius wasn't a pillar of virtue himself. While he blows a lot of hot air inflated with platitudes, his … [Read more...] about Writing in Your Unique Voice
politics
Me vs. We – Wordless Wednesday
Dear America
Dear America, It's been a heated few years. Politics brings out the worst in all of us, myself included. And we should be ashamed. The fighting, name calling, finger pointing, and venom spewing are not going to get us anywhere. Just over your shoulder at the at the last 12 … [Read more...] about Dear America
Mothers of Intention – Read it.
I just want to raise sons who don't grow up to be assholes. I want my sons to be protectors of the vulnerable, advocates for the disenfranchised, friends to the haves and have-nots. I want them to understand that their vote is their voice and remaining silent isn't an option. … [Read more...] about Mothers of Intention – Read it.
Poverty Plays by Different Rules
Usually by this time of night when I sit down at my desk to write, my head hurts. But tonight, my heart aches. I get lots of crap in my inbox. Loads of trolls find the time to rant anonymously about things I've written. I'm all for polite, thoughtful discourse and believe we … [Read more...] about Poverty Plays by Different Rules
Thank you, Teachers
My friend Becky posted this video to Facebook, and I was so moved I had to post it here. Teachers in this country get a bad deal all around. The joy and smile of a child can only carry you so far. Sure, the sense of accomplishment is priceless, but that kid's warm fuzzies … [Read more...] about Thank you, Teachers
Vernacular of Violence
I find myself simultaneously speechless and overflowing with so much to say. I just had to write. Something. I wrote this post almost as an exercise in capturing my stream of consciousness. Today when I led a writer's workshop for Bird's second grade class, a student asked me a … [Read more...] about Vernacular of Violence