Monday Musings

2022 ebbs into oblivion, the last few days and moments ticking away. Time to clear out the clutter and cobwebs in our lives. I’m scurrying to complete unfinished tasks, like my 2022 poetry book layout. [Yes, it will be published in 2022!] Ahead looms the new year, bursting with potential. And perhaps fraught with peril in our increasingly complex world. Regardless of the larger picture, what are your individual plans for 2023? Do you have personal or career goals? Do you make reservations for improvement or spontaneously delight in life? Welcome, 2023, and a fresh slate. You can follow the Author at her  Website  or on  Twitter .

The holiday season is upon us. This past weekend, we enjoyed a musical comedy rendition of  A Christmas Carol at the Duke Performing Arts Center  with loved ones. I hope you find a unique way to celebrate the upcoming week, no matter your tradition. Enjoy this wonderful time of year with family and friends. My best to you all! You can follow the Author at her  Website  or on  Twitter .

A brief note today to inform you of my upcoming 2022 book release. This year’s poetry book is a travelogue in short verse (monoku, haiku, senryu) and photos. The text is completed: now I’m working on polishing the illustrations and, finally, the formatting. I have a few personal pictures to include, but I’m fortunate that my wife is an accomplished photographer. I’ve facilitated the word editing and formatting of her genealogy books ( The Journey  and  Where We Came From ), and now turnabout is fair play. I’ve been winnowing through volumes of pictures from our local, national, and international journeys. There is a width and breadth of material to choose from, and I want to be sure to include the best for my readers. Do you enjoy getting on the road, a train, or a plane to visit new destinations? Or do you prefer an armchair approach? Either way, a treat awaits you for the year’s end. More details are forthcoming! You can follow the Author at her  Website  or on  Twitter .

Today there is much debate about freedom of speech. Instead of snarling impatiently, it is time to sit back and listen to past and present wisdom. It’s time to listen, to talk, not ball up our fists in anger. The wise individual knows the difference between a discussion and an argument. In the end, it’s not about who is wrong or right. but that we all move forward. A new voice in the free speech arena is Elon Musk, a brilliant entrepreneur. He has a full plate with all his scientific ventures: Space X, Tesla, Neuralink, and Optimus. He didn't have to take this topic on, but he has at significant personal risk. Those who adhere to the belief of speech control for personal or political gains may feel threatened and respond with violence. He is a brave man. Elon’s words are not new or radical concepts; they echo George Washington, the Father of our Country. Do you listen when ideas contrary to your own are raised, or do you lash out in response? What could we learn about ourselves and