Thursday, August 1, 2013

Editor's Corner

August 2013

“Accept criticism. If you do not offer your work for criticism and accept that criticism, meaning give it serious thought and attention, then you will never improve.”--Theodora Goss.

That quote shown on FaceBook by Michael John Fierro has been chosen for this column quote for August. The reason we do Pencil Stubs Online is to encourage writers, established authors, and beginning authors of all submissions which includes columns, articles, stories, poetry and song lyrics. They get a professional editor lending expertise in the form of minor corrections for spelling errors, typo's, choice of the correct 'sound alike word,' some grammatical errors and sometimes old fashioned advice on form. The author's personal 'voice' is never changed or compromised and we strive only to enhance what they intend to present so the reader does not become distracted by glaring errors. Many of our early authors have gone on to publish their own books or chap books, or have progressed to blogs of their own. Several of the song lyrics first seen in our pages have been turned into complete song recordings as Phillip Hennessy and Bruce Clifford can attest.

Our "By The Numbers" columnist Michael John Fierro has supplied us with the numerological forecast for August as well as the numerological profiles for George Zimmerman and Trayvon Martin. Because of the length of those profiles, they are being shown separately in this same issue.
"Irish Eyes" by Mattie Lennon, addresses a solemn subject, a change from Lennon's usually more humorous essays with info about THE CILLĂ­N. Thomas F. O'Neill, of Suchou, China, lauds the freedom of speech here in the USA in "Introspective."

Peg Jones ("Angel Whispers") shares the Amazon link to her book, “Living In The Heart Place With Your Angels: Daily Angelical Whispers Throughout the Year” and delivers a new message from the Angels.  Eric Shackle's Column does have a lighthearted piece featuring the Australian Prime Minester Kevin Rudd. Then Judy Kroll ("On Trek") also started with a FaceBook quote and discusses what it set her to pondering.

John I. Blair's column "Always Looking-People Who Made A Difference IX" once again brings to our attention a famous name from the past, telling us, "Frances Ellen Watkins Harper is a little-known American literary figure who dedicated her life to human betterment. Her writing may have become dated, but her motives have not."

Scott Chase aka Gandolph returns to our pages this time with a free verse, "Longing in A Dream," while Riva Joi Smith shares "Proud Stallion;" and John I. Blair's current poem is "Fight." Jacquelein Veldhuis of the Netherlands says of her poem "When I wrote 'Memories' in Dutch, it rhymed, but the translation does not."

"Are You With Me Now" and "So Far Gone" were submitted by Bruce Clifford. Phillip Hennessy, of England, another of our song writers, offers "Fear-Faced," "Did You Know What Time, this is," and "Pieces of Me."

Jeremiah Raber, a member of the first cast of the TV show "Breaking Amish, Brave New World," wrote his first song, "Unstoppable," and then two more songs, "Burning Love" and "Never Know" followed shortly. We are pleased to present them here for him as he begins what promises to be a prolific new career.

"Rabbo Tales II, Chapter 17-Attack" is a long new chapter in the adult fantasy with rabbits by Mark Crocker. Previous chapters of this tale can be accessed by clicking the author's name.

We thank our co-founder and webmaster Mike Craner for all the work he does to keep us appearing month after month. What would we do without him?

See you in September!

Click on Mary E. Adair 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.

By The Numbers

AUGUST, 2013 – A 14/5 UNIVERSAL MONTH

August is a 14/5 Universal Month. 14/5 is one of the Karmic Debt numbers in Numerology and has a great deal to do with the human condition and the sexual principles of life. With the 5 being a representation of (among other things) the human condition, August may see more focus and attention paid to things having to do with the physical being of people.

 This may be especially important in the ongoing fight around women's reproductive rights and the continuing crackdown on abortion by state legislatures. We may very well see an increase and intensity in this battle as people on both sides look to assert their positions as the 14/5 also concerns the issues of pregnancy and social and family obligations. With 5's desire for balance and law and order, once again the people's voices must be heard and considered, especially in the realm of legal documents and laws. 5 also represents the elements of freedom and change and perhaps these elements will gain importance in an area that should be entirely personal, without the interference or constraints of government or social agendas. Additionally, 14/5 includes conditions and situations revolving around national, community and social conscience. Might this not be a good time for people and politicians to work from a place of good conscience that includes concern and importance for the common good?

August will also bring about an increase in attention to matters of health, wealth and education. A receptivity to new things may help in propelling the dialogue regarding these matters. It will be important for all to slow down and give thought and consideration to previous behavior patterns. Increased concentration and mental transference can bring about new influences and changes where necessary. One positive way to foster and bring about such changes will be through the use of tact, diplomacy and persuasion. A key word to keep in mind during all conversations and actions is TEMPERANCE...giving consideration to all opinions and perspectives and acting, again, from a place that creates the best for everyone and enhances the common good.

5 is known for its bold and adventurous spirit and its willingness to take chances, and August amplifies opportunities to do so. This may be a month in which the unusual or extraordinary receives notice and the time is ripe for new and different products and ideas. The 14/5 energy is good for sales, travel and a change of pace and these conditions may bring about increases in the selling and purchases of goods and services. One caution is to be aware that trends towards desire creates a need for balance, again, keeping in mind the major conditions of the sexual principles associated with this number. Opportunities will exist to create balance in the physical realm as well as the creative ability to manifest change(s). All things and situations should be met with an abundance of enthusiasm and a willingness to make the necessary modifications. The principle of the 14/5 is the destruction of the old and the re-building of the new underscored by learning the lesson of detachment. Through these actions can we discover the true meanings of peace and freedom. It is through learning to love the law of change that it will be conquered.

In the world of business, along with the potential for increased sales (especially in the categories of pleasure-driven items), there is also increased energy regarding speculation and competition. While there may be losses of property or business failures, it must be remembered that losses will bring on gains.

On the negative side, the 14/5 energy of August may also bring on a rise in dishonesty and irresponsibility. People may leave jobs over issues real or imagined. There may also be an increase in fraudulent practices and these may arise in the areas of business and government. It is important that you stay engaged in the on-going processes and allow your voice to be heard...both individually and collectively.

2013 is a 6 Universal Year and the elements of responsibility, family, home and service to others must be considered in all that is contemplated or acted upon. After the 13/4 energy of July and its elements of transitional change, August continues the vibration under which the world continues to transform as we struggle to bring balance, system and equality to all things.

Blessings of Love & Light!
Michael John Fierro

Editor's Note: Michael John Fierro has also done the numerological profiles on George Zimmerman and Trayvon Martin.  They are published in this issue.

Click on Michael John Fierro for bio and list of other works published by Pencil Stubs Online.

Trayvon Martin: Victim, Aggressor

or Fulfilling His Destiny?

The tragic event that took place in Sanford FL on February 26, 2012 resulted in the death of a teenager, the arrest of a neighborhood watchman, and a resultant trial ending in the acquittal of George Zimmerman. On the surface, this could have just been a random occurrence, emboldened by a bizarre law (stand your ground) and what may, or may not have been a situation that was racially charge and motivated.

What does Numerology tell us about Trayvon Martin? Was he solely a victim? Could he have been the instigator of actions that resulted in his death? And, more deeply, what do the numbers show about this tragic event?

Trayvon Benjamin Martin was born on February 5, 1995 and had just celebrated his 17th birthday, three weeks before he lost his life. He had a 12/3 Soul Urge; a 12/3 Personality/Image; a 15/6 Expression; and a 13/4 Life Path. His sub-Challenges are a 3 in the 1st position; a 1 in the 2nd position; a 2 in the 3rd position; and a 4 Lifetime Challenge. The 13/4 Life Path is the same number as George Zimmerman's 13/4 Expression.

Trayvon's chart shows him to be a sociable, charming young man who had a lot going for himself. He was not without his issues (as we all are) and there are similarities between his chart and the chart of George Zimmerman that could have certainly contributed to the events of that night. Once again, in another of what seems to be a series of ongoing tragedies involving firearms, there are karmic lessons at play indicating that this event has implications and lessons for the whole, and not just for those involved. The 12/3 in two positions indicate that Trayvon had great poise and he may have been viewed as somewhat odd by those who knew him, as he might have projected great inner strength. This was coupled with a tolerance for those people, lifestyles and beliefs that were different than his. On a very deep level, he understood that life is just an illusion and that one's life was a result of their beliefs. He also understood the transitory nature of life and held a place of peace within himself. In the deepest core of his being, he was not attached to worldly matters. Perhaps the most important aspect of the 12/3 energy is that one may lead a life of voluntary sacrifice that includes difficulties, trials and tribulations yet nothing can rattle a deep serenity. As a numerologist, I interpret this to mean that part of the purpose of Trayvon's being was to be a catalyst or instrument of awareness and change.

The 15/6 Expression shows that Trayvon had a personal magnetism and a talent for earning or receiving money and gifts from others. Yet, he also knew that he must work for that which he desired. This energy also would have made him strong-willed and diligent and the possessing of a willingness to go after, and obtain that which he wanted. The 6 energy can be somewhat materialistic and I would say that there may have been a inner conflict regarding materialism for the 12/3 energy in his chart, being cognizant of the transitory illusion of life , is not necessarily concerned with the material aspects of living. One of the negative aspects of the 15/6 may be a lack of emotional control resulting in a violent reaction to their 'lot in life'. A confrontation could easily result in him lashing out, as he might perceive the confrontation to be a confirmation of who, and what he is and that would be uncomfortable for him.

The 13/4 Life Path number in Martin's chart is one of the most karmic of all the Karmic Numbers. With its representation of 'death', the 13/4 shows that the lifetime can be a continuing series of 'lives and deaths' through a never-ending progression of changes. This number is very much an 'all or nothing' vibration with every situation being of great importance and dramatic cause and effect. Those with the 13/4 must learn to ride the peaks and valleys of life and be willing to embrace the changes that come along. Just as things seem to settle down, something else comes along that requires attention and focus. Because of this condition, a secure home and secure relationships are necessary as a grounding device. Martin's 13/4 Life Path is the same number as Zimmerman's 13/4 Expression. In other words, the path of Trayvon's life was energetically the same as the energy of who Zimmerman must be in this lifetime. The negative side of the 13/4 carries with it a bad temper that leads to rash actions that can harm others. This leads to changes that are destructive and detrimental to his own life and possibly the lives of those around him. In this condition of the 13/4, one is spiritually asleep and unaware of the bigger picture, and the part that each of us plays in creating a whole that is beneficial to everyone. Couple that with the fact that the day of the incident that propelled both these people into the public spotlight (2/26/2102) was a 13/4 Personal Day (all or nothing) for Trayvon, on a 15/6 Universal Day, and I will infer that this was a day during which both parties were to meet their destiny in what was immediately a tragedy, yet in the long run could be a catalyst for a new discussion in this country about guns and the issue of 'stand your ground' laws.
There are other points of similarity in the charts of Trayvon and George. Zimmerman has a 4 1st Challenge (under which he would have still felt the influence as the issue will remain if not learned and overcome), and Trayvon's Lifetime Challenge was a 4. With its representation of 'control issues', this could have certainly contributed to the volatility of the situation as each of them would have looked to be the dominant force in what happened. Both individuals have 3-4s in the spelling of their names and this would indicate a potential physical reaction to anger and/or confrontation. On the Physical Plane, both have eight letters, showing that both men were ambitious for power and may exert said desire to make their case. Martin and Zimmerman both have four letters on the Mental Plane making both of them very determined in that in which they are engaged. (Obviously, these two conditions could easily create a volatile situation).

Trayvon's 1st Challenge was a 3 indicating that he might have been struggling to overcome some self-esteem issues and feel comfortable with himself. In conjunction with having no 3s in the spelling of his name, he may have had a difficult time expressing himself. Another contributing factor could be Trayvon's 1 Challenge in the 2nd position. A 1 Challenge is an indication of an individual having a difficult time with authority and being told what to do. The natural inclination of the person with a 1 Challenge is to confront authority. If Trayvon considered Zimmerman to be an authority figure, he might have naturally taken on that authority (and, because Zimmerman wasn't a true 'authority' figure, he may have been disregarded by Trayvon, triggering an angry reaction of '...how dare you, do you know who I am?'). While Trayvon may not necessarily have had a temper, Zimmerman does, and my sense is that Trayvon's initial reaction might not have been borne out of anger as much as other more deep-seated emotional issues (represented by the 3 Challenge and the 1 Challenge). Trayvon had a sensitivity for others that Zimmerman did not (evidenced by the lack of 2s in the spelling of his George's name and his 2 Challenge in 3 positions).

Taken all together, this was a mix of energies that had great potential for going wrong, and sadly, they did. Trayvon's Personal Day on February 26, 2012 was a 20/2 showing that for him, this was a transformational day regarding his abilities to get along with others. The 20/2 indicates that a sudden event would certainly bring on a major decision as to how one is going to proceed thus establishing a major turning point in one's life. Perhaps if events did not escalate so quickly, decisions could have been made that would have save a life, and prevented another from being turned upside down.

The purpose of this essay is not to assess guilt or innocence for either party, although in many ways, they were both guilty of something. In looking at the bigger, esoteric picture, this event may have very well been something to which both parties 'agreed' at some point in time before physical incarnation. In the way of the spirit, both were fulfilling an obligation to each other, and to the macro level of human existence. As I stated earlier, this may have been more to bring to the attention of all, the strange ways in which we behave towards one another, totally forsaking humanity and compassion for the sake of ideals and agendas. Obviously, America is a country that still struggles with issues of race and, we are a country that has a violent streak that continues unabated. If we all step back a bit and look at the big picture, we may realize that it is time to have the conversations that are necessary regarding the fact that we are all here together, and what affects one, affects all. In their own way, Trayvon Martin and George Zimmerman thrust these issues onto center stage with Trayvon sacrificing his life for the cause. Will Zimmerman's life ever be the same? I think not, although there is opportunity for him to become a voice in bringing people together. Can America, as a country, overcome its partisan divisions so that we make steps towards healing? Each of us as individuals can only do our part, yet it is the culmination of the acts of many that can affect the whole. What part will you take?

Blessings of Love & Light
© 2013, Michael John Fierro
Michael John Fierro is a Numerologist, Life Coach, and Author of YOU KNOW YOUR NAME...LOOK UP YOUR NUMBERS. He has been working with numerology since 1984 and is available for private sessions, lectures, and more. You may contact him at numerologist.michaelfierro@gmail.com or www.michaeljohnfierro.com

Click on Michael John Fierro for bio and list of other works published by Pencil Stubs Online.

George Zimmerman: Who Is He?

The Story Behind The Person

Recently, the news has been filled with stories about the tragic shooting of Trayvon Martin by George Zimmerman, in Sanford FL. Much has been written and talked about regarding the events leading up to, and culminating in Martin's death. The trial of Zimmerman ended in an acquittal. As a Numerologist, I am interested in George Michael Zimmerman, the person. What makes him tick? Could he be capable of killing someone? What might drive him to act in such an aggressive fashion? Is he capable of being an individual driven by fear/hate/racism and by his own idea of what is right or wrong? This profile of him will provide insight into what makes George Zimmerman tick and what may have been behind his actions on that fateful night.

In a numerological profile, I put emphasis on the Challenges (the issues in life as determined by the Life Path) and the Karmic Lessons (determined by the numbers that are missing in the spelling of one's name). The combination of these aspects of the chart go a long way in showing the areas of life in which an individual will have difficulties that result in aberrant or 'wrong' behavior. Coupled with the information provided through the rest of the chart, one can get a clear picture of what makes someone tick and how they may behave in various situations.

George Michael Zimmerman, born on 10/5/1983 has a 19/1 Soul Urge; a 21/3 Personality/Image; a 13/4 Expression and a 9 Life Path. His sub-Challenges are 4, 2, and 2 with a Lifetime Challenge of 2. Of his Major Numbers the 19/1 and the 13/4 are Karmic Numbers indicating that upon entering this plane he brought forth with him major lessons and energies and many, dramatic choices during the course of this lifetime.

While the 19/1 Soul Urge indicates leadership talents that could be useful it also shows that in all situations the All (9) must be considered in the doing of the One (1). As with all numbers, 19/1 has both positive and negative aspects. The positive aspects show great talent in heading up projects and a strong ability to take mistakes, learn from them, and turn them into something beneficial. It certainly can attract love and money resulting in a good marriage, a contented home life, material success as well as honor and esteem. The 19/1 can create many twists and turns in life which may result in starting over on many occasions. One of the important lessons of this number is the mastering of emotions, as failing to do so will result in emotional upheavals and uncontrolled impulses. This, in turn, can lead to material loss and failures. A truly negative 19/1 may lead a double life, creating a positive image on one hand while leading a life of deceit and a lack of truth. This path will lead to what could be construed as a spiritual fall as well as a testing of one's courage. Losses come about through unseen dangers and treachery. It is possible that out of this tragedy could come growth and healing that can lead to being an influence in the relief of suffering. Only time will tell if Zimmerman will learn the big lesson from this tragedy and move forward to enlighten himself and others.

21/3 is a fortuitous number that can bring about good fortune and success. This is an expressive and creative energy that calls for an orderly progression of things to assure success. Acting without thinking will bring about problems that can not only impact oneself, they will impact others. Negatively the same tenacity that can result in success will also assure loss as situations with others can remove the things that provide a sense of security. The negative 21/3 is also very stubborn and refuses to learn the lessons that life offers. Once again, Zimmerman can take this situation and turn it into something that benefits others (and by extension, himself) as the number represents the cosmic consciousness.

The 13/4 Expression number in Zimmerman's chart is one of the most karmic of all the Karmic Numbers. With its representation of 'death', the 13/4 shows that the lifetime can be a continuing series of lives and deaths through a never-ending progression of changes. This number is very much an 'all or nothing' vibration with every situation being of great importance and dramatic cause and effect. Those with the 13/4 must learn to ride the peaks and valleys of life and be willing to embrace the changes that come along. Just as things seem to settle down, something else comes along that requires attention and focus. Because of this condition, a secure home and secure relationships are necessary as a grounding device. Although not a leader, per se, the 13/4 will carry on for others. This could lead to a heightened sense of self-importance as Zimmerman would see himself as the person who can take care of what he perceives to be 'problems'. Coupled with his 9 Life Path, George has a heightened sense of idealism and he may see many things as a 'cause' to which he must devote time and energy.

The negative side of the 13/4 carries with it a bad temper that leads to rash actions that can harm others. This leads to changes that are destructive and detrimental to his own life and possibly the lives of those around him. In this condition of the 13/4, one is spiritually asleep and unaware of the bigger picture and the part that each of us plays in creating a whole that is beneficial to everyone.

As with the previous numbers, opportunities abound for Zimmerman to manifest changes that will improve his life and the lives of others. If he were to become an advocate for tolerance and acceptance, he could go a long way towards healing the wounds created by his actions.

The major lesson of the 9 Life Path is to learn one's humanitarian purpose and share it. 9, with its great compassion, tolerance and altruistic take on life, can always be a force for good, often sacrificing itself for the benefit of the greater collective. It is the 9 that can lead the way by offering up an example of what a good life can do and how it can be beneficial. The caution with the 9 is always to be aware of a tendency to be too idealistic without giving any thought to how one can affect others by forcing one 's ideals on those people. This is also a vibration that can lead to great disappointment because of an unwillingness, or inability to conceive of a perspective other than the one that is held. Negatively, the 9 can be overly emotional, frustrated, selfish, unfulfilled, burdened and easily disappointed. If Zimmerman feels these conditions (and I felt strongly that he does) it would cause him to act irrationally without much thought given to the consequences of his actions. He lacks the understanding of others' motives and could easily be immoral, vulgar and a liar.

In looking at the Challenges and Karmic Lessons in George Zimmerman's chart, one can begin to truly understand in what areas he would have the most difficulties and, by extension, how these issues could manifest themselves in his day-to-day life.

George has no 2s in the spelling of his name. The Lesson here is to learn patience with, and tolerance of, others. There is a lack of consideration for others and the qualities of tact and co-operation may be missing. Coupled with the fact that he only has 1-1 in the spelling of his name (showing a lessened sense of self), he may look for ways to assert himself to make himself feel better without giving a thought to how his actions may affect others. What truly exacerbates these conditions is the 2nd and 3rd Sub-Challenges of 2 and a Lifetime Challenge of 2. Zimmerman's biggest challenge in life is to learn to be patient, tolerant of others and sensitive to others. With the representation of the 2 in the realm of partnerships and relationships, he would constantly be tested in how he interacts with others. The Universe, in its infinite wisdom, would continually put him in situations in which he would have to overcome his Challenge and become a loving and understanding person.

George also has 2-8s in the spelling of his name and the 8 can add the element of a temper, anger and rage to an individual. Again, coupled with the lack of 2s and the below average number of 1s, he would conceivably overcompensate by projecting (falsely) a sense of power and control. Because Zimmerman has a 4 Challenge in the 1st position (covering the time period up to the age of 27 and beyond if the Challenge has not been met and overcome), control issues would be a major consequence. This would also create issues around self-control. The 1st position 4 Challenge also indicates that he came out of a home that was very disciplined and controlled, quite possibly leading to an attitude of rebellion and a search for ways in which he could exercise his own control over others. Add to the 4 Challenge the fact that there are 3-4s in the spelling of his name and there is a recipe for potential disaster. The average number of 4s in the average name is 1-2. Having 3-4s would add to the controlling nature of the individual while also making the person somewhat anal retentive with a strong desire to create and maintain order and discipline in his life. Anything that may upset that scenario could easily trigger a response that in many instances would be physical. Coupled with the 2-8s in his chart, it is easy to see that George might react in a physical fashion to anything that upsets him, or anything that triggers a visceral response in line with his preconceived ideas of things.

Other conditions that reside in Zimmerman's chart and that could add to a very, negative persona are the 8 Physical letters, 4 Mental letters, 3 Emotional letters and 6 Intuitive letters in the spelling of his name. Separately, these conditions may be easily handled and directed in a positive fashion. Combined, they could spell problems and potential disaster. The 8 Physical letters make him ambitious for power (his desire to be a policeman and his relegation to being a neighborhood watch person). The 4 Mental letters make him very determined and quite willing to pursue that which he feels he should be doing. 3 Emotional letters indicate that he is a person that wants admiration and who would act impulsively. Finally, the 6 Intuitive letters show that in his mind he sees himself doing 'big' things and that he acts from a place of delusions of grandeur.

In summary, I believe, based upon my almost three decades of working with Numerology, that George Zimmerman was not only capable of killing Trayvon Martin, in all probability he could justify it in his own mind. This, in combination with the 'stand your ground' laws in Florida, provided a toxic stew of ingredients that led to the death of a young man. Yet, in its way, this event, with George Zimmerman at the heart of it, could lead to a re-examination of these laws and more deeply, the racial divide that still exists in 21st Century America. Perhaps as an outcome of all of this, Zimmerman will (unwittingly) be a catalyst for change, fulfilling part of the requirements for who he is.

We must all examine our parts in this ever-changing world in which we live and do our best to improve ourselves individually and by extension, improve the greater good for all.
© 2013, Michael John Fierro
Michael John Fierro is a Numerologist, Life Coach, and Author of YOU KNOW YOUR NAME...LOOK UP YOUR NUMBERS. He has been working with numerology since 1984 and is available for private sessions, lectures, and more. You may contact him at numerologist.michaelfierro.com or www.michaeljohnfierro.com

Click on author's byline for bio and list of other works published by Pencil Stubs Online.

Always Looking: People Who Made A Difference IX

Frances Ellen Watkins Harper

The sale began — young girls were there,
Defenseless in their wretchedness,
Whose stifled sobs of deep despair
Revealed their anguish and distress.
a verse from "The Slave Auction" by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper (1825 – 1911), an African-American abolitionist, poet and author. She had a long and prolific career, publishing her first book of poetry at twenty and her first novel, the widely praised Iola Leroy,, at age 67.

Frances Ellen Watkins was born to free parents in Baltimore, Maryland. After her mother died when she was three years old in 1828, she was raised by her maternal aunt and uncle. She was educated at the Academy for Negro Youth, a school run by her uncle Rev. William Watkins, who was a civil rights activist. He was a major influence on her life and work.

At fourteen, she found work as a seamstress. Frances Watkins had her first volume of verse, Forest Leaves, published in 1845 (it has been lost). In 1850, Watkins moved to Ohio, where she worked as the first woman teacher at Union Seminary. In 1852, Watkins took another teaching position in Pennsylvania. During this time, she lived in an Underground Railroad Station, where she witnessed the workings of the Underground Railroad and the movement of slaves toward freedom. This experience had a profound effect on Watkins, her poetry, and her later work as an activist.

In 1853, she joined the American Anti-Slavery Society and became a traveling lecturer for the group. In 1854, Watkins was exiled from Maryland because of new laws stating that black people who came in through the northern border of Maryland could be sold into slavery. This marked the beginning of Watkins’ activism. That same year she delivered her first anti-slavery speech, on “Education and the Elevation of Colored Race.” The success of this speech resulted in a two-year lecture tour in Maine for the Anti-Slavery Society.

She traveled, lecturing throughout the East and Midwest, from 1856 to 1860. In 1854 she had published a second book of poems, Poems on Miscellaneous Subjects. While she was traveling and lecturing, several thousand copies of her books were sold, and Watkins donated a large portion of the proceeds to the Underground Railroad. In 1859, her story "The Two Offers" was published in Anglo-African Magazine.

At the age of 35, in 1860 she married Fenton Harper, a widower with three children. They had a daughter together in 1862. For a time Frances Harper withdrew from the lecture circuit; but after her husband died in 1864, she returned to her travels and lecturing. As her career progressed, and especially with the end of the Civil War and death of her husband, Harper became increasingly vocal on feminist issues. She formed alliances with strong figures in the feminist movement, including Susan. B. Anthony.

In 1866 Harper gave a moving speech before the National Women's Rights Convention, demanding equal rights for all, including black women. Harper's eloquent efforts to raise consciousness on this issue earned her election as Vice-President of the National Association of Colored Women in 1897.

She also published books throughout this period, including Sketches of Southern Life in 1872, The Martyr of Alabama and Other Poems in 1894, and her well-known novel Iola Leroy, or Shadows Uplifted in 1892, which is one of the first novels published by a black woman in the United States. Its heroine is a free-born mulatta. The book tells of her struggles after being separated from her mother, her search for work, and her experience with racist boundaries in nineteenth-century society. The book, like the rest of Harper's work, intertwined the issues of racism, classism, and sexism.

Frances Watkins Harper was a strong supporter of abolitionism, prohibition and woman's suffrage, progressive causes linked before and after the American Civil War. She often read her poetry at public meetings, including the extremely popular "Bury Me in a Free Land". Numerous African-American women's service clubs named themselves in her honor. Across the nation, in cities such as St. Louis, St. Paul, and Pittsburgh, F. E. W. Harper Leagues and Frances E. Harper Women's Christian Temperance Unions thrived well into the twentieth century. A women's honors dormitory named for her and Harriet Tubman at Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland, is commonly referred to as Harper-Tubman, or simply Harper.

Bury Me in a Free Land 

Make me a grave where'er you will,
In a lowly plain, or a lofty hill;
Make it among earth's humblest graves,
But not in a land where men are slaves.

I could not rest if around my grave
I heard the steps of a trembling slave;
His shadow above my silent tomb
Would make it a place of fearful gloom.

I could not rest if I heard the tread
Of a coffle gang to the shambles led,
And the mother's shriek of wild despair
Rise like a curse on the trembling air.

I could not sleep if I saw the lash
Drinking her blood at each fearful gash,
And I saw her babes torn from her breast,
Like trembling doves from their parent nest.

I'd shudder and start if I heard the bay
Of bloodhounds seizing their human prey,
And I heard the captive plead in vain
As they bound afresh his galling chain.

If I saw young girls from their mother's arms
Bartered and sold for their youthful charms,
My eye would flash with a mournful flame,
My death-paled cheek grow red with shame.

I would sleep, dear friends, where bloated might
Can rob no man of his dearest right;
My rest shall be calm in any grave
Where none can call his brother a slave.

I ask no monument, proud and high,
To arrest the gaze of the passers-by;
All that my yearning spirit craves,
Is bury me not in a land of slaves.
©Frances Ellen Watkins Harper

Based on the article in Wikipedia at Wikipedia Article and on an article by Sara A. Therkelsen and Chanomi Maxwell-Parish in Sara A. Therkelsen and Chanomi Maxwell-Parish article

Click on John I. Blair for bio and list of other works published by Pencil Stubs Online.