Soon I'll be turning another year older. As is often the case, the turn of another year finds me reflecting on life. My own. Those I love. Humanity as a whole. I for one never thought I would make it past twenty-five, so I'm surprised to still be here, getting every closer to doubling that number. Sure I've been reflecting on my own past, relieving memories, some good and some bad. I've also been thinking about my future. I wonder how long I will live and what I will see and what will come after I am gone. Since I was born in the 1970's through to today so much has changed. Ultimately, this year, as I'm approaching another year older, I have found myself thinking more and more of my uncle Gerald Clowe. His life has been brought so much into focus for me in the run up to my new age because it was an age he never reached. He's been gone since 1989 when I had just started high school. I remember traveling to Missouri and Kansas for his funeral. As I child, I became painfully aware of death at a young age, so funerals were always terribly somber affairs for me that I felt deeply. I never really knew my uncle. He was eight years older than my mother, his sister, and we never had those strong family bonds that led to get-togethers like some do. I know that my uncle and his siblings did not have an idyllic upbringing and it had left them all with scars. I have heard some stories of my uncle's trials to adulthood and the demons he carried with him. Even though I didn't know him well, I think I understand what he carried with him. It led to his suicide before he reached the year he would have turned 49. I know that some believe those who commit suicide should not or cannot be forgiven. I do not believe that is so. As I know the creator, I cannot believe that there would be no compassion or forgiveness for those who have been cut deeply and unable to find a way to heal. The only thing I would like this year as I turn the page to a year my uncle never knew would be for people to be kind. There has always been hate. There has always been small-mindness. There has always been cruelty. However, in the past few years we seem to have become more entrenched in our own spheres, quick to judge. When I find myself in a moment where I might be quick to judge another or quick to write a nasty comment to another, I try to think of my uncle and how perhaps nothing could save him from his demons, but maybe if kindness had been extended that it might have made a difference, might have been enough. I try to think of the child that hides in the heart of those on the other side of my words and though I might fail too often, I am going to try to choose kindness. Be kind to the child that hides in their hearts,
a tender flame flickering within. In the depths of their being, where vulnerability resides, a world of dreams and innocence unfolds. Behind the masks they wear, the armor they've crafted to survive, a delicate spirit yearns to be seen, to be cherished, to be understood. In the tapestry of their existence, traces of wonder and curiosity reside, seeking refuge from a world that often forgets the beauty of simplicity. Embrace their unspoken stories, the secrets whispered in their sighs, for within their hidden chambers, lies a universe of untold magic. In moments of darkness, extend a hand of compassion, to guide them towards the light, to remind them of their own resilience. Their laughter, a chorus of joy, reverberating through their souls, their tears, a reminder of their tender hearts, yearning for compassion's gentle touch. Nurture the dreams that dance within them, the spark that ignites their passions, for in their uninhibited imagination, lies the potential to reshape the world. In a world that often demands conformity, let kindness be their sanctuary, a refuge where they can unfurl, their true selves without fear of judgment. So, be kind to the child that hides within, with a gentleness that mends and heals, for they carry within them the power, to transform the world with love's embrace. Let compassion be their guiding light, as they navigate life's uncertain paths, for in nurturing the child within, we nourish the essence of our collective soul.
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70,000 words of pain,
Is what I've been working on these days. Trying to put it all on paper, But the memories never fade. It's a long road to healing, When the heart is torn apart. 70,000 words of pain, Are etched upon my heart. Every time I close my eyes, I'm back in that place again. Where the love we had was shattered, And I'm left to bear the pain. It's a long road to healing, When the heart is torn apart. 70,000 words of pain, Are etched upon my heart. I know I'll find my way, Through this darkness that surrounds. I'll keep on writing and singing, Until the healing has been found. It's a long road to healing, When the heart is torn apart. 70,000 words of pain, Are etched upon my heart. I'll keep on writing, Until the pain has been undone. 70,000 words of pain, is what I'm working on these days Just a frog
not quite in a bog chillin and free croakin leave me be ©Miranda N. Prather When we met, I was slim, even trim in some places.
I had honed this body as an outward reflection of my soul. Confidence, enthusiasm and optimism. As our years together marched onward and your love began to wane, grey clouds clung to my soul. My confidence and enthusiasm ran away and I ate how I ate to fill up the lonely hours of a day. By the time your final goodbye sounded, taking away every bit of optimism I had left, my hips were round and slippery, a Buddha belly crept over my pants. Shuddering sobs and quivering flesh, a sight no one wants to behold. Friends spur me on. My knees protest the extra weight, but this fat that you left me with, hugs my bones and holds me in a loving embrace. If I were to unzip myself and walk out of this body who would hold me now? ©Miranda N. Prather FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
11/24/15 | Marysville, KS Marysville, KS, Elementary Library to Include a Copy A copy of Blue Blue Sea Finds His Cape,by Miranda N. Prather with illustrations by Hayley Mullins, which was published by Shoo-fly Publications on 11/18/15 will be added to the Marysville, Kansas, elementary school library. School Librarian, Lynn Kracht says the book "looks interesting" and that the school's library would "love to have a copy". Miranda N. Prather attended Marysville Elementary briefly during her first grade school year. Aside from the cold, snowy weather, Prather enjoyed her time there and was found of her teacher Mrs. Crow. Prather's mother grew up in Marysville. Prather fondly recalls numerous trips to Marysville to visit family members and to see the history, especially the Pony Express. Blue Blue Sea Finds His Cape tells the life story of a blue-collar racehorse who overcame a devastating illness to survive and inspire thousands around the globe who were facing their own struggles. The book features playful writing and delightful pictures form Erlanger, KY, artist Hayley Mullins that bring the tale of Blue Blue Sea to life. Blue Blue Sea was no American Pharoah, but he became a hero just the same! While Miranda N. Prather wrote the words before Blue Blue Sea died, she hadn't located an illustrator going into 2015. When talking with her FaceBook friend, and Blue Blue Sea fan, Hayley Mullins, she realized what a talented artist the teenager was. After some discussion, Mullins agreed to illustrate the story of her fellow Kentuckian, Blue Blue Sea. To learn more and follow Blue Blue Sea's world visit: https://www.facebook.com/BlueBlueSeaOTTB. http://www.amazon.com/Blue-Sea-Finds-Cape-Volume/dp/0692568883 -ENDS- Miranda N. Prather, [email protected], 240-357-5764 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
11/19/15 | Middletown, MD Blue Blue Sea Finds His Cape Published Miranda N. Prather Publishes First Children's Book Shoo-fly Publications released Blue Blue Sea Finds His Cape, by Miranda N. Prather with illustrations by Hayley Mullins. The book tells the life story of a blue-collar racehorse who overcame a devastating illness to survive and inspire thousands around the globe who were facing their own struggles. The book features playful writing and delightful pictures form Erlanger, KY, artist Hayley Mullins that bring the tale of Blue Blue Sea to life. Blue Blue Sea was no American Pharoah, but he became a hero just the same! Miranda N. Prather had her first equine when she was just four, the obstinate Shetland stud, Blackie. Later she competed in show jumping in Kentucky. Thoroughbreds have always been her favorite horses and she has owned two and worked with many. In 2004, while living in Maryland, she located Blue Blue Sea in a listed on CANTER-Mid-Atlantic (formally WV) http://www.cantermidatlantic.org/. She purchased Blue Blue Sea directly from his last owners on the track and took him home to be a jumper. In 2006, Blue Blue Sea became very ill and was diagnosed as having a disorder not unlike Crohn's in people. At that time, the prognosis was 1-2 years. With help from talented veterinarians across the country, good barn help and the fighting spirit of the patient himself, Blue Blue Sea went on to live for more than seven years after the diagnosis. In 2011, on a whim, Prather started a FaceBook page for Blue Blue Sea. She never expected to get much interest, but soon had hundreds of loyal followers. Many of the people who followed Blue Blue Sea's story and adventures were suffering from illnesses like Cancer, digestive disorders or other chronic conditions. They shared in Blue Blue Sea's triumphs, off-beat adventures, setbacks and ultimately mourned his loss with Prather. As a result of his fans efforts enough money was raised to transport his half brother, Gran Huracan, from Puerto Rico to the States, where he now enjoys his days with a highschool girl. Blue Blue Sea's FaceBook page continues after his death, educating the public on horse related topics and helping to inspire one another to survive and thrive. While Miranda N. Prather wrote the words before Blue Blue Sea died, she hadn't located an illustrator going into 2015. When talking with her FaceBook friend, and Blue Blue Sea fan, Hayley Mullins, she realized what a talented artist the teenager was. After some discussion, Mullins agreed to illustrate the story of her fellow Kentuckian, Blue Blue Sea. To learn more and follow Blue Blue Sea's world visit: https://www.facebook.com/BlueBlueSeaOTTB. -ENDS- Miranda N. Prather, [email protected], 240-357-5764 http://eepurl.com/bGxnfX
Find out all the details of the release of Blue Blue Sea Finds His Cape! While you wait for the release of Blue Blue Sea Finds His Cape, download your free copy of his first book. Details here:
http://eepurl.com/bC_hp9 Treated breakfast, lunch and dinner as more than a race and found more taste in every bite
Moments can easily slip away, unannounced and unnoticed, but today I took the time to recognize they are footsteps on my journey. Watched a Monarch caterpillar eating on a leaf and reflected on my steps toward getting where I need to be. Found a different path choked with weeds, followed her curves and caught a glimpse of a rare bird. Took a trip to a barn, silently conversed with and old mare, as my fingers worked her muscles loose. Noticed myself, zoning out , giving in to easy resignation, but life must be taken every moment if I am to make it into something. Made a game out of my boring data entry tasks, watched them all disappear fast. Watched the words before they came out of my mouth talking about my car after it had been hit sent an email to a college friend I just reconnected with and insured it was more than the "how are you" / "I'm fine" variety paid the tab for the next in line at the local coffee shop Silence has a rhythm, gave myself time to hear it. Why am I here, an inadequate question, better to ask why do I do this or that, then I can truly learn from the past a familiar and short path, but walking it with attention to each flutter of wings or sound of falling leaves, brings new discovery sloughed off my grudges and let them float away, down the drain with the mineral rich waters of a bath in Berkley Springs. How many kisses and colorful setting suns have I lost in a lifetime of mindless surfing a virtual wave of humanity? starting today, less than before Felt the cool grass and mushy Earth move between my toes and followed the jays and the crows who seemed to call my name. spoke with calm and compassion as I explained I had no interest in the security system someone just trying to do their job wanted me to buy. Tried to understand and feel more for my fellow man, animals have always been easier for me to consider without an ounce of contempt. Felt my impatience getting under my skin turning up the temperature toward anger, practiced ways to dial down the heat, learning still but getting better. Having walked this path for 21 days, I know some of the changes I must make, thinking how to proceed in the best way. Reflections in any mirror can deceive, but I sit here and reflect on how I've changed and how I can change more, knowing I'm crossing the river and nothing's the same. Hello, race fans,Welcome to another edition of our newsletter. Welcome new friends! We are glad to have you here.
We really are rounding the final turn and heading for home on the book. Just three more illustrations are needed. We'll have those by the end of October and then, it will just be cover design, final tweaks and off to print! We can't wait to share the final printed product with you of Blue Blue Sea Finds His Cape. But we want some of you involved in helping us make Blue's book the best it can be for his fans! We need readers! What kind of readers? Well to start, we need readers with a critical eye. Can you spot a typo from fifty yards out? Do you look at a page and instantly have suggestions about improving the layout? If so, you're our kind of reader! As a beta-reader for Blue Blue Sea Finds His Cape, you get to read part or all of the book in electronic format (PDF). All we ask is that you don't release any details of the book and that you provide us with some honest feedback, nothing is off the table. We might make your change and help improve the book. We will have a little surprise for you, too, as a thank you for your help. If you review books or have kids that might want to review the book, we need you, too! To be a part of either, please email us at: [email protected]. We'll be in touch to get you set up. Thank you as always! The Blue Blue Sea Team http://us11.campaign-archive1.com/?u=f6fb0f7bd0c15e526674f5315&id=3bddb96e06 |
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