Editor's Corner

By Mary E. Adair

March 2024

“Peace begins with a smile.”
_Mother Teresa.

Your editor has been amazed by all the foods that can be changed into Green Treats as the cooks try to develop something new and spectacular to serve on St Patrick's Day. (The aforementioned poor saint would most likely be quite subdued to know of all the fuss and excitement made of his life and activities.)

I will continue to prefer my red meats red, and my rice or potatoes or pasta in the pale blond colors natural to them. Normally green commodities like broccoli or asparagus, green beans, etc., are enough of such emerald foodstuffs for me. Speaking of food, my Column ID pic is cropped for this issue from the photo at the bottom of the page taken by the waitress at Applebee's (one of my very favorite dining establishments) mid-February in Lubbock. My Firstborn Granddaughter Melinda Smith and I spent the day there, and since we don't have this chain of restaurants in our western Texas area, it was a real treat for me.

Walt Perryman's poems for March are mainly nostalgic featuring "Did You Or Not?," "How Many of You Loved Your Old Truck?" and "Ducks in A Row." John I. Blair's poems are "Cedar Waxwings" and "Comfortable With Myself", the latter with a photo to prove it. Bruce Clifford's two poems are "We Didn't Know" and "All These Years." Bud Lemire's poems "Family Game Time" and "The Word On Senior Companions" relate to his current busy life while "Like The Wind And The Sun" speak with his personal beliefs, but "The Dream Traveler" can intrigue many of us. "Times Past" is by Riva Joi Smith, one of our poets we haven't heard from for awhile. Good to see you are still wielding your pen, Ms Smith.

Thomas F. O'Neill in "Introspective" decries the rampant, though random, comments deriding American intelligence. Marilyn Carnell's column "Sifoddling Along" reveals that her new creative project is writing a novel, and shares a brief episode. It certainly captures this editor's attention and interest. Judith Kroll's column "On Trek" explains her charming concept of magic wands in a different manner. Pauline Evanosky's column "Woo Woo," shows us what happens in a psychic's life when someone unsought pops in to visit and have a chat. Our newest columnist Ara Parisien in "Medium-Author-Spiritual Teacher" discusses the realistic difference in a "Pollyanna" acceptance vs a knowledgeable power stance.

Rod Cohenour shows us a couple of photos from his kitchen while following a favorite recipe devised by his wife, he affectionately calls "M." "Cooking with Rod" includes the full recipe and serving suggestions which may be varied by the diners. "Armchair Genealogy" by columnist Melinda Cohenour updates us with the advances and new uses of exploring DNA processes. Dublin's Mattie Lennon likes having March roll around in the year because of all the activities that have been and continue to be held to honor St Patrick's Day. He was impressed with a new book on the scene "Under The Bridge."

This from last month bears repeating: Now with this new year of Pencil Stubs Online underway, we are again astounded that a simple suggestion 27 years ago by Mike Craner that we try doing our magazine on the World Wide Web, has bloommed so beautifully. Again, I am expressing my gratitude to my talented friend and original webmaster Mike Craner. We place our confidence in him as we have in the past and shall continue doing so.

See you in April.

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Click on author's byline for bio and list of other works published by Pencil Stubs Online.
This issue appears in the ezine at www.pencilstubs.com and also in the blog www.pencilstubs.net with the capability of adding comments at the latter.

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Armchair Genealogy

By Melinda Cohenour

What's New With DNA

 

DNA is the most exciting tool for genealogists and the family researcher as well. That statement has been true since the first commercial testing became affordable several years ago. The ability to compare test results and identify people around the globe who share ancestral lineage is, simply, amazing. Knowledge made widely available and affordable!

Recently, while researching my series on the Gilgo Beach Serial Murders, I was shocked to discover new technology had progressed to permit a DNA profile to be extracted from hair samples with no root! Previously only mitochondrial DNA could be determined. A huge forensic advancement.

What else is new in DNA science, I wondered. Well, quite a lot it seems. Such a complex subject requires far more training than I possess; however, I can research. So that's what this month's column is focused upon: research and links for other inquiring minds to review if desired.

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JUST WHAT IS DNA?

First, it would be helpful to have a basic understanding of how molecular biology works to crack the code of life's creation. Thus, a site that teaches how the scientists cracked the code. (The first page of the college level text is reached through the following link. Subsequent pages can be opened at the bottom of each page. Explore if you're interested.)

SOURCE: https://opentextbc.ca/biology/part/introduction-to-molecular-biology/"

"These three letters “DNA” have now become associated with crime solving, paternity testing, human identification, and genetic testing. DNA can be retrieved from hair, blood, or saliva. With the exception of identical twins, each person’s DNA is unique and it is possible to detect differences between human beings on the basis of their unique DNA sequence.

"DNA analysis has many practical applications beyond forensics and paternity testing. DNA testing is used for tracing genealogy and identifying pathogens. In the medical field, DNA is used in diagnostics, new vaccine development, and cancer therapy. It is now possible to determine predisposition to many diseases by analyzing genes.

"DNA is the genetic material passed from parent to offspring for all life on Earth. The technology of molecular genetics developed in the last half century has enabled us to see deep into the history of life to deduce the relationships between living things in ways never thought possible. It also allows us to understand the workings of evolution in populations of organisms. Over a thousand species have had their entire genome sequenced, and there have been thousands of individual human genome sequences completed. These sequences will allow us to understand human disease and the relationship of humans to the rest of the tree of life. Finally, molecular genetics techniques have revolutionized plant and animal breeding for human agricultural needs. All of these advances in biotechnology depended on basic research leading to the discovery of the structure of DNA in 1953, and the research since then that has uncovered the details of DNA replication and the complex process leading to the expression of DNA in the form of proteins in the cell."

WHAT NEW TECHNOLOGY HELPED CRACK THE GENOMICS CODE?

SOURCE: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10376292/#:~:text=Third%2Dgeneration%20sequencing%20technologies%20represent,fragments%20compared%20to%20earlier%20methods.

Simple Summary:

"Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is a powerful tool used in genomics research. NGS can sequence millions of DNA fragments at once, providing detailed information about the structure of genomes, genetic variations, gene activity, and changes in gene behavior. Recent advancements have focused on faster and more accurate sequencing, reduced costs, and improved data analysis. These advancements hold great promise for unlocking new insights into genomics and improving our understanding of diseases and personalized healthcare. This review article provides an overview of NGS technology and its impact on various areas of research, such as clinical genomics, cancer, infectious diseases, and the study of the microbiome."

WHAT ARE WE TALKING ABOUT?

SOURCE: https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary

Talking Glossary
of Genomic and Genetic Terms
The glossary features nearly 250 terms explained in an easy-to-understand way by leading scientists and professionals at the National Human Genome Research Institute.

DNA NEWS AND RESEARCH

SOURCE: https://www.news-medical.net/?tag=/DNA

DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the hereditary material in humans and almost all other organisms. Nearly every cell in a person’s body has the same DNA. Most DNA is located in the cell nucleus (where it is called nuclear DNA), but a small amount of DNA can also be found in the mitochondria (where it is called mitochondrial DNA or mtDNA).

Further Reading: (The Source site provides links to each bulleted subject listed below.)

• What is DNA?
• DNA Properties
• DNA Chemical Modifications
• DNA Biological Functions
• DNA Interactions with Proteins
• DNA Genetic Recombination
• DNA Evolution
• History of DNA Research: Scientific Pioneers & Their Discoveries
• DNA and Technology
• DNA Translation
• RNA Codons and DNA Codons
• The 1968 Nobel Prize in Medicine
• DNA Sequencing
• DNA Sequence Assembly
• Structure of DNA
• What is the RNA World Hypothesis?
• DNA Replication and Repair
• History of Microarrays
• How Do Microarrays Work?
• What is Satellite DNA?
• Interactions That Hold DNA Together
• Role of Transcription Factors
• The i-motif in DNA
• What is DNA Loop Extrusion?
• DNA Loop Extrusion Mechanisms
• Mechanism of DNA Synthesis
• Histones and the Cell Cycle
• How to Store DNA
• What are DNA Nanomachines?
• What is a Semi-synthetic Organism?
• Types of Non-Coding DNA Sequences
• The Effects of Neanderthal DNA on Modern Human Health

* * * * *




WHAT IS CRISPR?

SOURCE:https://www.broadinstitute.org/what-broad/areas-focus/project-spotlight/questions-and-answers-about-crispr

What is the new DNA technology CRISPR?

"A: CRISPR genome editing allows scientists to quickly create cell and animal models, which researchers can use to accelerate research into diseases such as cancer and mental illness. In addition, CRISPR is now being developed as a rapid diagnostic."

* * * * *




CRIME AND DNA


SOURCE:https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/dna-initiative-advancing-criminal-justice-through-dna-technology#:~:text=DNA%20Initiative%20Legislation-,Initiative%20Goals,accused%20or%20convicted%20of%20crimes.

What has DNA technology improved?

"DNA technology is increasingly vital to ensuring accuracy and fairness in the criminal justice system. DNA can be used to identify criminals with incredible accuracy when biological evidence exists, and DNA can be used to clear suspects and exonerate persons mistakenly accused or convicted of crimes."

ADVANCING JUSTICE THROUGH DNA TECHNOLOGY

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IS THIS ALL THAT'S NEW WITH DNA?


No, dear reader, not by a long sight. The sources offered, however, do cover the latest advances in technology and processes as well as resources for a basic understanding of terms and ground floor education in molecular biology. Perhaps we will return to this exercise in future columns.


In the meantime, continue exploration of your personal DNA and family research, building your tree and, perhaps, becoming acquainted with newfound cousins!


Make use of the advances in your personal Armchair Genealogy. See you next month.

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Click on the author's byline for bio and list of other works published by Pencil Stubs Online.
This issue appears in the ezine at www.pencilstubs.com and also in the blog www.pencilstubs.net with the capability of adding comments at the latter.

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Cooking with Rod

By Rod Cohenour

Having grown up in the Land of Enchantment, one learns to appreciate the many different ways that Mexican food blend spices can be used. One many people may not think about but which is imminently delightful is Ms Mexican Queso Meatloaf.

Serve this once and, I guarantee, it will become a repeat entree on your food repertoire.

~Bon appetit!

M's Mexican Queso Meatloaf

(Serves 6-8)

Ingredients:

Meatloaf:

* 3 lbs lean (at least 80%) ground beef

* 1 cup Progresso™ plain bread crumbs OR dry 6 slices bread then crumble (or amount required for one cup crumbs)

* 1/2 cup thick & chunky salsa

* 1 lg. Bell Pepper, diced small

* 1 sm. white or yellow onion, diced small

* 1/4 cup red enchilada sauce

* 2 eggs

For Topping:

* 1/2 cup thick & chunky salsa

Queso:

* 1/2 brick Velveeta style cheese

* 4 oz. brick Pepper Jack cheese, grated

* 2 cups shredded Fiesta Blend cheese

* 1 (7 oz.) can Green chiles, diced, (use liquid)

* 1/2 Bell Pepper, diced with membrane and seeds removed

* 1/2 cup whole milk (add as needed)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350° F.

2. In large bowl mix all Meatloaf ingredients together, reserving 1/2 cup thick & chunky salsa for later. Press mixture into two ungreased 9x5-inch loaf pans. Top each with 1/2 cup salsa.

3. Bake 45 to 55 minutes or until meat thermometer inserted in center of loaf reads 160°F. (We like our meatloaf to have a bit of a crusty top.)

4. While meatloaf is baking, allow about half an hour to prepare queso.

Melt Velveeta in double boiler. Add both the Pepper Jack and Fiesta Blend cheeses. Add bell pepper. Continuously stir, allowing all ingredients to slowly blend, achieving a silky smooth texture. If needed, add milk in portions to keep Queso at right thickness.

5. To serve, arrange meatloaf slices on plate over choice of mashed potatoes, rice, or Knorr Mexican rice blend.


Drizzle queso over meatloaf.


Offer crisp salad featuring lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper (plus your favorites). A dressing of salsa blended with sour cream is a delightful choice.

6. Offer the following for guest's optional toppings:
Sour cream
Cilantro leaves, finely diced
Crisp radishes
Green onion stalks
Bell Pepper sticks
Pico de Gallo
Sliced chilled jicama and lime slices
Hot buttered tortillas
Tortilla chips
Extra salsa
Extra queso

Mexican Queso Meatloaf ready to pop into the oven.

See pic below of serving the meatloaf topped with Queso.

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Click on the author's byline for bio and list of other works published by Pencil Stubs Online.
This issue appears in the ezine at www.pencilstubs.com and also in the blog www.pencilstubs.net with the capability of adding comments at the latter.

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Woo Woo

By Pauline Evanosky 

 

I think encouragement might be one of the more important things we can do for ourselves and for others. As a writer, there is the added chance that the others who might be affected are people you may never meet. Also, it’s just a good practice to be encouraging.

Now, whether you are able to help somebody get back into the game immediately, or if your voice is one of many to actually get a dismayed couch potato up off of the couch doesn’t matter. You helped.

Just don’t give up on them or yourself. I know in the early days of my being a psychic medium, I would get clients who were not able to listen. I could tell, because they would ask the same question over and over again until it became annoying. Maybe I just wasn’t doing it right.

As I moved through my menopause years, I began to think of myself as a psychic drill sergeant. “Did you not just see my lips move? Why aren’t you listening?” I didn’t really say things like that. I thought of them, though, often enough.

There’s a saying that people just don’t like to hear the truth. This is true whether they go to a psychic or their sister-in-law.

See, the thing is that the advice people give is generally based on their own experience. If you were to go into a bar and ask the guy who sits at the end of the bar day in and day out for advice about something, that advice would probably involve a bottle of beer, maybe more than one. Just remember that.

If you are asking a criminal's advice, there will likely be underhanded doings involved. Or, if you figure everybody has a legitimate point of view the world is your oyster as far as asking people for advice. Interestingly enough, I’ve come to think everybody, no matter what their views are, might have something of interest to suggest.

Like if you figure criminals take advantage of the smallest opportunity, they might teach you about being observant. I think we tend to pass up many opportunities in normal everyday affairs.

It’s like if you’ve got polarizing views of good or bad, you might not consider an accident actually to be good luck. I am an optimist at heart, and even for me, it took many years to be thankful for things like being fired. The woman ghosted me out of a job. I should have stepped forward long before the ghosting started to say, “I need to move on.” She found somebody better and stopped calling me to work.

In the woo-woo part of my life, my spirit guide said when I dropped an entire half gallon of milk on the kitchen floor that exploded everywhere, “Oh, happy accident.” That was the first time in a long time that the entire kitchen floor, cabinets included, got washed. Completely.

Charity begins at home. That means being kind to yourself. If you are attempting to do something that some people could do without blinking an eye, but you need to learn the 25 supporting actions that have to happen first, then allow yourself a couple of years to do it. Short of enrolling in a school, just learn it yourself. In this day of the internet, you can reach out via YouTube and find folks who have taught and documented their progress in renovating their homes, raising chickens, or cultivating mushrooms.

By the way, contact me if you’d like some pointers on how to develop your own psychic senses. It doesn’t take much because the way I figure it is that everybody is already psychic. You just have to pretend for a little bit. Then, pretend becomes reality.

Best of luck to you all. Be kind, encouraging, reflective, and you will be fine.

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Click on the author's byline for bio and list of other works published by Pencil Stubs Online.
This issue appears in the ezine at www.pencilstubs.com and also in the blog www.pencilstubs.net with the capability of adding comments at the latter.

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Sifoddling Along

By Marilyn Carnell

Writing a Novel

 

A couple of years ago, my insurance company offered a free online class called “Me and The Can Write a Romance Novel” Although I have never written in the romance genre, I thought, “Why not, it is a free class.” I tinkered with it for some time and recently got serious about it.

I am writing a semi-romance story using the Civil War in Southwest Missouri as background, as I have always been interested in the history of the area. None of my family lived in McDonald County during the war, but one great-grandfather was stationed at near Maysville, AR, and later settled in Pineville. One of my great-grandmothers did butcher a hog and hide it under a pile of laundry. Follows is a fictional scene of what happened.

      Bonnie Faye Doolittle leaned over a steaming black iron cauldron resting on a welded ring above a roaring fire. After much tugging with the help of a sturdy broomstick, she extracted a bedsheet from the seething water.

      The sheet would serve as a screen to hide the dead pig currently residing under a nearby pile of dirty laundry, and later, when drier, the sheet would help in handling the slippery beast and conceal it during transportation to a safer place. Despite the chilly, just-before-dawn, weather, sweat dripped from her face and soaked her clothing. She swiped a wisp of dark red hair, now sprinkled with gray from the recent trauma of war, from her forehead and hooked it behind her ear. She was taller and stronger than most women she knew, but her formerly robust body was thinned by short rations since the war began. She had a pretty face with creamy white skin, large green eyes, and a ready smile that showed even white teeth. Her strength and good health gave her some advantage in being responsible for caring for all the necessary farm chores that fell to her since the war began. after all the men were gone.

      Times were brutal and if a male of military age was found, soldiers or bushwhackers were inclined to shoot first and ask later. Men who were not in a group were wise to stay hidden. Bonnie Fay’s adult male family members chose to serve in the Southern army, which reflected their loyalties – this area was almost evenly divided between Union and Rebel causes. Even brothers differed in their opinions which divided some families painfully.

      The sun was just peeking over Pea Vine Ridge. She had to hurry. The war had been going on for 6 months and its impact on southwest Missouri had been devastating. Seemed like every soldier on each side had marched through the area and bushwhackers could strike out of the blue wreaking havoc and death.

      A short time later, she heard volleys of gunfire that were closer than usual. It seemed to come from the far side of Pea Vine Ridge. She was terrified.

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Stay tuned for future stories. If you find this interesting, let me know.

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Click on the author's byline for bio and list of other works published by Pencil Stubs Online.
This issue appears in the ezine at www.pencilstubs.com and also in the blog www.pencilstubs.net with the capability of adding comments at the latter.

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Irish Eyes

By Mattie Lennon

MEMORABLE SAINT PATRICK’S DAY.

MORE than a million people lined the streets of New York's Fifth Avenue for a colourful St Patrick's Day parade in 2001. Despite the cold many stayed for hours watching over 150,000 marchers pass by, police, army, firefighters, hundreds of bands, and people from every county in Ireland.

Our green and misty island was well represented. The marchers included the Finglas Concert Band as well as a contingent from Dublin Bus while Garda representatives joined the New York Police Department at the head of the parade.

I was one of the 100 from Dublin Bus participating. The late Barney Coleman had put years of work into organizing it, ably assisted by Dublin Bus Management. One of our group was Limerick man, Joe Collins who was the PR man for Dublin Bus for many years and knew New York City like the back of his hand. No matter what information or help we needed all we had to do was (if I may borrow a phrase) “talk to Joe”

We met many who wanted to talk about their Irish roots. One man said he had stood in ehe same spot for the parade for 50 years. "It's a great day for the Irish," he said. His comments reflected the enthusiasm of many New Yorkers, for the parade, even those without Irish connections.

Among the dignitaries was Mayor Giuliani who was wearing a green woollen scarf over a green turtleneck sweater. He was hugely popular with the inhabitants of the Big Apple, some of whom shouted: "We love you, baby". Members of the Irish Lesbian and Gay Organisation were underwhelmed since they were once again refused permission to take part. They chanted: "We're Irish, we're queer, and we’ll be here every year". Their protest was peaceful, unlike the previous year when there were 11 arrests.

On the days on either side of the march our group divided into splinter groups. The shopaholics among us seem to spend most of their time in Macy's and such establishments. I was one of a small group who stood on the roof of one of the Twin Towers, looking down at the small planes going up and down the Hudson. Little did we know the fate that the same building and its twin would suffer six months later.

On the Sunday I compiled and presented a one-hour radio programme Ceol na nGael on WFUV20.7 broadcast from Fordham University. It is the most popular Irish radio program in New York, and according to the feedback my presentation was all right. One of my fellow travelers had told me, “You have the perfect face for radio.” I had prepared most of it before I left home and I brought Dublin Bus driver/ singer Angela Macari who gave a memorable, live, rendition of Grace.

Our little group was also in a world-famous submarine. It wasn’t submerged, of course. I’m referring to the nuclear sub, Growler.

At the time Growler was the only nuclear missile submarine available open to the public in the United States. As the information areas about the sub on Pier 86 are spacious, visitors were encouraged to learn and take in as much information as they could in the early parts of the tour before entering the submarine. Once on board, lines can move quickly and the ability to ask questions of the staff is limited, but encouraged. A couple of us there didn’t need any encouragement to ask questions. I prefer to think of us as having inquiring minds but unkind people described us as “inquisitive hours.

* * * * *

In September 1998, 40,000 people showed up to catch a glimpse of the President of the United States Bill Clinton, and his wife Hillary in Limerick. At a public event on 5th September on O'Connell Street, Bill Clinton was granted the Freedom of the City by my old friend, the Mayor of Limerick, Joe Harrington. As Bill was mounting the platform Joe whispered something in his ear and the world’s media didn’t find out what it was. But on March 18th two and a half years later I made a trans-Atlantic call, did a live on-air phone interview with Joe and he told me, and the Stateside listeners, what he had whispered to the President. I won’t share it with you but it was a piece of advice that Bill eventually took.

There have been many changes, both good and bad, on both sides of the Atlantic since that memorable day twenty-three years ago.

* * * * *

I was just a few pages into "Under the Bridge" by Jack Byrne, an English author of Wicklow ancestry when I got an email from the editor telling me that the deadline was staring me in the face. However, I was far enough into this gripping story to see the author's talent.

One reviewer has described it as "A truly British and Irish Thriller" and I couldn't agree more. Set in Liverpool in 2004, from the very first page the author's ability to describe everything including the weather, in detail and to bring the reader into the minds and hearts of the characters is obvious. We are steered into an intimate knowledge of the emotions of the two complex characters, Anne and Vinny.

Watch this space in April. And in the meantime, whether you are English or Irish or from anywhere else in the world I can already see that going out to buy "Under the Bridge" would be a good move. It is published by Northodox Press Limited and you will find the author at; www.jackbyrne.home.blog

See you in April

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Click on the author's byline for bio and list of other works published by Pencil Stubs Online.
This issue appears in the ezine at www.pencilstubs.com and also in the blog www.pencilstubs.net with the capability of adding comments at the latter.

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Author-Medium-Spiritual Teacher

By Ara Parisien

POLLYANNA OR POWER?

Time and time again I have heard that positive thinking is not realistic. It’s all too sugar and spice. Very Pollyanna.

What I know is this. If my reality is not to my liking I am able, through my innate power, to create one I do like. Nothing Pollyanna about that. That is power!

CAN YOU BE POSITIVE ALL THE TIME?

Perhaps people believe that one cannot possibly be positive ‘all’ the time. To this, I agree. However, there is nothing stopping one from attempting to be. After all, we live on a plane of duality so we will always have hot/cold, slow/fast etc. We live in a world of opposites. Just because the negatives exist does it mean we absolutely have to pay attention to them? No.

If you consider that your thoughts create then it would bode well for us to pay attention and offer only the thoughts we would love TO create.

FOCUSING ON THE NEGATIVES

When one focuses on the negative or pushes against what they see or hear it only serves to expand the negative energy and bring more of the negative into your experiences. Think about that. We have all had days that started out badly and got worse. We stress out on the bad things that happen and it causes more. It stands to reason that the opposite is also true.

IT’S SCIENCE

E=Mc2. It’s energy. It’s energy in motion. Small amounts of mass (your experiences in your reality) are equivalent to huge amounts of energy expended. When we consider how long and how intensely we focus on the negatives in our lives we can begin to see what it DOES create.

E=MC2 also works the same to the positive. It’s not Pollyanna. It’s science.

We can see how a positive attitude can be more beneficial for this reason – and countless other reasons too! How do we switch from the negative to the positive?

LAW OF POLARITY

Enter the Universal Law of Polarity which states, “Everything in this dual plane of existence has an equal opposite.” Hot/Cold. Fast/Slow, etc.

Consider holding a stick. It has 2 ends. One end represents the negative value and the opposite end, the positive. As human beings, who by the way, deem themselves to be intelligent, focus on a negative event they are typically caught up with identifying the catalyst of the event and rarely the event itself. They twist and sputter about the rightness and fairness and such. When they do so it simply expands what they are pushing against. They rarely notice the opposite end of the stick which represents the gift the event has caused into being. Not only that, they fail to notice all the emotional values between the negative and positives that lay between either end of the stick.

CHOOSE THE POSITIVE

In choosing the positive end, we may not immediately jump to it in one try as the vibrational frequencies do not align. However, they can at least try and land comfortably somewhere in the middle of the stick. Even the middle feels vastly different than the negatives they are immersing themselves in. Even if you only jump a third of the way you will still feel better and be able to gain some clarity on the situation that remained elusive when at the negative end.

Striving to maintain a positive balance in any given situation is not Pollyanna. It is more about unleashing your power. You have the power in you to create the reality you prefer. No one is fated to live through a challenge as it appears at first glance. They have the wherewithal to see it in a better light, a better frequency which caters to maintaining a higher frequency which inevitably leads to a faster solution and a more positive result. Who ‘doesn’t’ want that?

YOU ARE POWER

Remember the stick. Remember your choices. Remember who you are. You are not Pollyanna. You are power!

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Click on the author's byline for bio and list of other works published by Pencil Stubs Online.
This issue appears in the ezine at www.pencilstubs.com and also in the blog www.pencilstubs.net with the capability of adding comments at the latter.

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Introspective

 

By Thomas F. O'Neill

I read a post on Facebook saying America is "dumbing down." The sheer number of people who believe in conspiracy theories and refuse to acknowledge facts that contradict their irrational beliefs has led people in other nations to think that America is, in fact, "dumbing down." Many make America appear to be losing the moral high ground on social media, primarily due to the sheer number of ignorant posts. The belief that IQs in America are on a downward spiral has become complex and contentious, and opinions on this matter can vary widely. Some people argue that certain aspects of American society, such as the quality of education, public discourse, and media, have been declining, leading to a "dumbing down" effect. Others may contend that technological advancements and the ease of accessing information have led to greater overall knowledge and awareness.

There are certainly concerns about the state of education in the United States, including disparities in resources between schools, standardized testing, and the ability of the education system to prepare students for the challenges of the modern world. Additionally, the rise of social media and the 24-hour news cycle has changed how people consume information and has raised questions about the quality and depth of public discourse.

On the other hand, it's essential to recognize that many highly educated and informed individuals are in the United States, and the country continues to be a global leader in many fields, including technology, science, and academia.

Whether America is "dumbing down" is a multifaceted issue with no simple answer. It's essential to consider multiple perspectives and factors when evaluating knowledge and intellectual engagement in any society.

I hope I have made a difference in my former students' lives, not by filling their minds with mundane facts but by opening their minds to new ideas.

Always with love,
Thomas F O'Neill

Email: introspective7@hotmail.com

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Phone (410) 925-9334

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Click on the author's byline for bio and list of other works published by Pencil Stubs Online.
This issue appears in the ezine at www.pencilstubs.com and also in the blog www.pencilstubs.net with the capability of adding comments at the latter.

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On Trek

By Judith Kroll

Magic Wand

I always said, I wish I had a magic wand! Poof wave the wand and things become better.

In my deeper thoughts, it came to me that WE have that power. How? We don't need a wand, we just need love, and intent. We can change our thinking, which changes ourselves. I cannot make anyone change their thinking, but I can set an example. I can become a wand in how I treat others. How I share information online. Not with hate but love. Love is the key. When the magic wand is waved, it is for GOOD, not for bad. When we think magic wand we do not think of it destroying people, places, or things. It is always for the good of all.

So I am a wand of love, that shares good news, positive thoughts, and tons of love, just like the flowers are wands, and trees are wands, and the dogs and all animals are wands. The sunrises and sunsets, and I can go on and on. The Earth is one magic wand, that people destroy, but it, our planet doesn't destroy even a bird.

Love to all,
Judy one of the wands of love. 11/16/23

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How Many of You Loved Your Old Truck?

 

By Walt Perryman

Can anyone relate to my morning thought?
Maybe it depends on the truck you bought!

Somehow, I can’t believe how life can suck,
How many of you men loved your old truck?

Then you go and trade it in for a new one,
And you’re devastated when the deal is done.

You’re so sad about your old truck and you,
And about all that you’ll have been through!

You look back at your old truck as you leave,
The love you had for a truck is hard to believe.

As you drive your new truck off the new car lot,
You discover it’s a computer that you’ve bought!

Three days later and you’re driving around town,
You’ll finally read, how to roll the windows down.

I don’t know how we can love a ‘old’ truck this way,
Maybe it has something to do with Valentine’s Day!

©2/14/2024 Walt Perryman

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Family Game Time

 

By Bud Lemire

While growing up, games were what we always did
Rummy, Nertz, Cribbage, it was fun as an adult or a kid
Gin Rummy or Five Hundred Rummy, it didn't matter to us
Our family loved playing games, we never caused a fuss
Dice games, board games, and card games too
Taking part in any of them, was always fun to do
Bunco was fun, and then along came Greed
Who really knew, where each day would lead

My brother Terry, would stop in the afternoon and stay
Play a few games of Cribbage with Mom, on almost every day
When our whole family got together, we'd play Animal or Spoons
I haven't played those games, for quite a few moons
As a kid it was games like Leapin' Letters, or Battling Tops
Kerplunk, drop the ball in and see if it drops
Charades, was a lot of fun to play
When friends came over, it was all day

Then there was a time at the old family home, we'd play at night
Nancy would come over, we'd play games under the kitchen light
Royal Rummy, The Magnificent Race, Boggle, or Pictionary
The games that we played, they would always vary
The fun times, never seemed to end
Memories of those times, we use to spend
I think back to those days, the memories are great
Those were the times so precious, I sure appreciate

I keep those memories alive, by cherishing each and every game
These days I play them with Nancy, and friends, which is my aim
I love the games, that we always play
They add so much enjoyment, to every day
I can go back in time, with each memory
Yet still move ahead, which is a great place to be

©Jan 19, 2024 Bud Lemire

                      Author Note:

The memories of playing games with Mom and my
brothers and sisters, always take me back. Today I
am making more memories with my sister Nancy,
and the friends I play games with at night

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Comfortable With Myself

 

By John I. Blair

My soft-bellied, bulgy, bony self
Caused me grief when I was young.
Shy beyond belief, I hid,
Sure I was gross, awkward, fat.

Today I’ve survived the awkwardness.
At times I’m gross indeed, no doubt,
But at my age I’m at peace with that.
At my age I’m just glad I’m here.

Now when I look into a mirror
I pause to smile at what I see,
Long since rid of my fear, no more
Hostage to another’s tongue.

I’ve no one to answer to but me,
No one else to live up to—
And though a hard critic I can be,
Of critics I’m the quickest to forgive.

©2003 John I. Blair
Encore

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Did You or Not?

 

By Walt Perryman

Do you remember going to Church as a kid,
And some of the stupid things that you did!

It was worse when you had a friend with you,
The giggles were terrible when there were two.

You’d try to stop giggling, but it was all in vain,
And the congregation thought you were insane!

Then your grandmother would grab your ear,
After that your giggling was replaced with fear.

When I wrote this, I guess I was asking you,
But if I were truthful, I’d tell you, “I did it too”

. ©2/16/2024 Walt Perryman

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The Dream Traveler

 

By Bud Lemire

I'm The Dream Traveler, I travel in and out of dreams
Where I go, nothing is exactly what it seems
The places where I go, Imagination of the mind
You just never know, what you're going to find

A distorted place, of the world that you know
Where your mind takes you, is where you're going to go
To a distant future, or a long-ago past
Only while you're asleep, they never really last

Friends and family, always have a role there
Even they seem different, so you need to be aware
You can be the Captain, on a ship out on the seas
Or at a kitchen table, eating a big bowl of peas

Maybe at a Class Reunion, one you've never been to
Where you meet a Classmate, that you never knew
You can be in a classroom at a desk, sleeping in a chair
The teacher is calling your name, but you're unaware

You can be living out a fantasy, for goodness sake
A dream can take you anywhere, when you're not awake
Maybe a star of a T.V. Show, that you watch every day
How did this ever happen, but it takes your breath away

How about a dream, that is so very real
You know it must be true, just by the feel
You could have a dream, of what's happening recently
Knowing things nobody told you, yet in the dream you could see
When you're The Dream Traveler, you can go anywhere
When you're sleeping, your mind can take you there

©Feb 21, 2024 Bud Lemire

                      Author Note:

I'm sure you have had many dreams, and some can be very
strange. Some may be unbelievable. Some may feel so real.
Some can have a loved one from the afterlife visiting.that
could very well be real, if it touches you deeply. The dream
can take you many places.

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All These Years

By Bruce Clifford

All these years you’ve kept me whole.
Time after time lost in the unknown.
Not a moment in time have I been able to define.
All these years without letting go.

These dreams are so real.
Why can’t we find a way to feel.
How we once used to be.
This ancient mystery.
All these years.

I could have never made it without you.
I’ve gone on without you.

All these years you’ve stayed with me as I survive.
Every day and night waiting for a familiar surprise.
Not a moment in time have we found our place in life.
All these years waiting for you to arrive.

My broken heart Is so real.
Why can’t we find a way to unpeel?
All these layers so deep.
I feel you when I’m awake and asleep.

I could have never made it without you.
I’ve gone on without you.
I’ve gone on.

All these years you’ve stayed with me.
All these years you remain with me.
All these years you have remained in my heart.
All these years I’ve loved you from the very start.

©2/23/2024 Bruce Clifford

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Times Past

 

By Riva Joi Smith

Since childhood
Words have dropped from my mind onto the paper.
Sometimes faster than they could be written.
As time wore on they were less frequent
The observation became more private -
Life over took the pen.
Then the thought of pictures telling stories...
Again, I was passionate
Once more All must be shown.
Yet now, I ask myself is this futile?

All the words lost - photographs stolen!
I am left wondering
Why have I done this.
Did I write all those words for myself?
Did I save those moments in time for no one?
The bee on the thistle
The geese on the pond
I'll never know

© Jan 31, 2024 Joy Smith

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Cedar Waxwings

 

By John I. Blair

A drunken, rowdy bunch,
Bellies full of berries,
They roister through the hollies,
Piping high, swooping low,
Lightening my gray day.

Each year I yearn to see
That waxwings are here,
A breath of northern air
Spilled south to freshen up
This stagnant Texas town;

And when they do arrive,
All gold and green and gay,
They help restore my hope
That yet another wintertime
Can be survived.

©2002 John I. Blair
Encore

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Ducks in a Row

 

By Walt Perryman

Here is something about living everyone should know,
Most of us spend our life trying to get our ducks in a row.

Ducks represent life situations both the good and the bad.
To be happy we think things must be perfect, that is sad.

We get them in a row and everything’s going fine,
But those stupid little ducks never stay in line.

So, we put our happiness on hold and that really sucks,
Life passes us by while we are lining up ducks.

We do not realize that life goes by so fast,
Until we get older and look at our past.

I am going to change my priorities and I will be just fine,
I am going to be happy even if my ducks are out of line.

So, Lord please help me and my ducks too.
So, we can try to stay in line with you.

Amen

©2/5/2024 Walt Perryman

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The Word On Senior Companions

 

By Bud Lemire

Senior Companions are well known, wherever they be
One of the best Volunteer Programs, you'll ever see
We're asking residents and In Home clients, what they are thinking
Rita smiles and says “They're great” and then she is winking

Those who have dementia, remember only at the time
Yet that moment comes again, their smile is a great sign
George says “I look forward to the people in Blue”
Sara was quick to say, “She's a friend I love talking to”

Jenna says, “We play cribbage, when he gets here”
“Crazy Eight,” says Pete, “Is a game I always cheer”
Molly smiles, “They truly are the best Companions to us”
Eleonor believes in her heart, they are people we can trust

Millie is glowing as she says “They're Angels! Angels in blue!”
Lucille says “Yes! There's so much they will do”
The residents have spoken, and you have heard
Senior Companions are special, that is the word

©Feb 1, 2024 Bud Lemire

                     Author Note:

Being a Senior Companion is very rewarding.
Just to see the smiles on their faces when you
enter the room where they are. So many of them
look forward to you being there, to play a certain
game with them, or just to visit. Your understanding
of the place they are in their life, makes it all worth
while.

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We Didn't Know

By Bruce Clifford

She took me back to that empty space.
Empty spaces without a trace.
I’m just a poet in the vacuum of scars.
We didn’t know it.
We don’t know who we are.

We didn’t know it.

You brought be back to enchanted memories.
You took me to the person I could never be.
We once soared through the timeless vacant summer sky.
We didn’t know it.
We couldn’t even if we tried.

So, you beat me to the punch.
You ate my heart during your extended lunch.
Now I’m left holding the bag.
Feeling lonely, desperate and sad.

You took me to those endless spaces.
My heart destroyed by irrelevant faces.
We once could see what was ahead of us.
Now all that’s left is the blind faith in trust.

She took me back to that empty space.
Empty spaces without a trace.
I’m just a poet in the vacuum of scars.
We didn’t know it.
We don’t know who we are.

We didn’t know.
We didn’t know.
What was up ahead.
You weren’t willing to show.

©2/5/2025 Bruce Clifford

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Like The Wind And The Sun

 

By Bud Lemire

She's like the wind and the sun
She's everywhere, and shines on everyone
Even though she passed away
Her spirit is with me everyday

Many of us, don't have the gift
To see or hear spirit, to give us a lift
Believe me, they want you to know
Exactly what happened, to their soul

They can be many places, like the wind and the sun
Their spirit is energy, when their human life is done
All of her family and friends, that she left here
Need to know and understand, she is always near

She checks up on all, the loved ones she left behind
When came out of her body, from the world of mankind
The deep connection you had, while she was here
Will continue forever, let me make this clear

Forever, infinity, everlasting it will be
Our love together, is the Universal Key
When you leave this world, your journey isn't done
You will be like the wind, and like the sun

©Feb 20, 2024 Bud Lemire

                      Author Note:

We become energy after we pass, and like the wind
and the sun, can be in more than one place at one
time. I know, it's hard to think that something like
that can really be true. Those who have touched
the Spirit World, know this. But for us, it is hard
to grasp until we experience it ourselves. Once we
do, it will be so amazing.
Note: I wrote this about Vicki, and to let you know
that your loved ones' lives go on in spirit, and are
always near you, sharing their love still.

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