You have three magic genie wishes, what are you asking for?
I don’t mind that children believe in genies and magic lamps. It’s good for them to dream, to imagine a world where wishes come true with a snap of the fingers. Fantasy teaches kids to think beyond the ordinary, to wonder and hope. But there comes a time when we outgrow the idea that life will hand us what we want just because we wish for it. As adults, we have to accept the truth: there’s no genie waiting to make life easier.
Whatever we want—a stable career, a home, a meaningful relationship—won’t appear out of thin air. No whispered wish or starry night is going to build it for us. Success isn’t conjured; it’s earned. It comes through effort, through late nights, long days, and moments of self-doubt that you push through anyway. Reality may not sparkle like a fairy tale, but it offers something fantasy never can: the satisfaction of knowing that what you’ve achieved is yours because you worked for it.
It’s tempting to want shortcuts, to imagine some magic force clearing the obstacles in our path. But shortcuts leave no lessons behind. The struggles, the grind, the setbacks—they shape us into people capable of holding on to what we’ve worked for. A genie might grant riches, but it won’t give you the resilience to keep them.
Let the children keep their stories of enchanted lamps and wishes for now. They need those dreams to grow. But as adults, we know better. Life is a reality we have to meet head-on, not with wishes, but with action. Whatever we want, we build with our own hands. There’s no magic trick—only the slow, steady magic of hard work.
The offer was there, sparkling like a star on a clear night: a ticket to the moon. All the buzz about lunar tourism was tempting to some, but not to me. They could talk about the view, the weightlessness, the once-in-a-lifetime thrill of leaving Earth behind—but I was unmoved.
“Why should I go to the moon,” I thought, “when I haven’t even roamed the entirety of Earth?”
There are vast deserts I’ve yet to cross, rainforests breathing with life I haven’t walked through, cities teeming with stories I’ve never heard. From the icy edges of Antarctica to the dense mangroves of the Sundarbans, Earth still holds wonders I can only dream of experiencing. Why would I spend millions to stand on a lifeless rock when oceans, mountains, and bustling marketplaces here still call to me?
The moon’s allure may be undeniable to some, but I see no reason to leave behind the place I’ve only just begun to know. I belong here, amidst wildflowers and street vendors, thunderstorms and sunsets. The moon’s gray expanse might offer beauty in its own way, but I’d rather feel the warmth of sand between my toes or the rush of wind at the top of a mountain.
So I’ll leave it to NASA and the astronauts—their courage and ambition are meant for lunar landscapes. They have their missions, their milestones, their sense of purpose. I applaud them. But me? My mission is here. Earth is my playground, my sanctuary, my endless adventure.
If I ever look up at the moon, it’ll be with admiration, not envy. Because while others chase lunar dust, I’ll be chasing the wonders that bloom beneath my feet.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
There’s a river inside me, always moving, always flowing. Some people know of it—of my creativity—but few understand how deep it runs or how far it carries me. It’s not deception, not even close. It’s expression, pure and essential, the way I make sense of the world and navigate the currents of life. I wear my creativity like a second skin, sometimes quietly, other times boldly. Whether I write, paint, sketch, or dabble in a new form of art, it’s always my way of speaking truths that words alone cannot hold.
Writing is my compass, guiding me through emotions, experiences, and dreams. But I don’t just write the truth—I craft stories that blur the lines, diving into creative non-fiction where facts and imagination dance together. I find that truth itself is sometimes too rigid, and life too complex to fit neatly within its confines. So, I let my mind wander. I weave hopes and desires into my words, reimagining what life could be. It’s not that I lie or pretend—rather, I reshape the pieces of life to reflect the deeper truths that can’t be spoken plainly.
Painting and other forms of art are like different languages I use to express what I can’t capture in writing. A brushstroke, a splash of color, the rough texture of a canvas—each one tells a story only I can feel, but others may glimpse in passing. These visual creations are an extension of the same river of creativity, winding through different landscapes, shifting and shaping me as I go.
My creativity isn’t just about making things; it’s about surviving, thriving, and finding peace in life’s struggles. When life becomes too heavy, too complicated, I dip into the river. God gave me this gift, and I know it is not mine alone. I’m thankful for the professors who sharpened my knowledge and encouraged me to explore every artistic corner of myself. They opened my eyes to the many ways creativity can act as both a mirror and a refuge.
What people see in me is only part of the picture. Some notice my writing; some have seen a glimpse of my artwork. But there is always more beneath the surface, more flowing within me that they may never fully grasp. And that’s okay. Creativity, for me, is deeply personal—not a performance, but a necessity. It’s how I make sense of joy and sorrow, how I dream and cope.
Like a river running quietly under a bridge, my creativity moves through me constantly, always present, always alive. I am grateful for every twist, every turn, every outlet through which it flows. It allows me to shape my world in ways that words, paint, or any medium alone never could. It is not just a talent or a skill; it is my lifeline, my prayer, my way of living with gratitude for all the beauty and chaos that life brings.
When you think of the word “successful,” who’s the first person that comes to mind and why?
What does it mean to be successful? In a world where social media flaunts luxury cars, corner offices, and jet-setting lifestyles, it’s tempting to believe that success is defined by material wealth, power, and fame. But is that all there is? Can the essence of a meaningful life really be reduced to accolades and riches, or is success something deeper? True success transcends superficial accomplishments—it lies in personal fulfillment, the impact we have on others, and the legacy we leave behind.
First, let’s examine the pursuit of wealth. Money undeniably provides comfort and opens doors to experiences that would otherwise be unavailable. Yet, countless stories of wealthy but unhappy individuals prove that financial success alone is hollow. Why do billionaires suffer from anxiety? Why do celebrities with global fame struggle with loneliness? The answer is simple: possessions cannot nurture the soul. As soon as we achieve one financial goal, a new, more ambitious one emerges. The pursuit becomes endless, leaving us wondering if we are chasing shadows rather than meaning.
Moreover, social recognition—the applause of others—offers a fleeting sense of accomplishment. Society teaches us that prestige, whether in the form of job titles, awards, or social standing, is synonymous with success. But public validation is a fickle thing. What happens when the applause fades? A title on a business card may impress strangers, but it cannot bring lasting peace or self-worth. Success driven by external validation leaves one vulnerable to the shifting opinions of the crowd.
In contrast, true success resides in personal fulfillment. What brings a sense of joy, purpose, and belonging? For some, success is found in following their passions—even when society deems them unconventional. The artist whose work speaks from the heart, the teacher who inspires their students, and the parent raising compassionate children experience a success that cannot be measured in dollars or awards. Their fulfillment is rooted in doing what aligns with their values, not in chasing society’s definition of achievement.
Equally important is the impact we have on others. Success is not just about elevating ourselves but about lifting those around us. What legacy do we leave behind? What good have we done? In the end, it is the relationships we nurture and the kindness we show that define us. When people speak at a funeral, they rarely list the deceased’s net worth or job title. Instead, they recount stories of generosity, love, and the ways that person touched their lives.
True success also means having the courage to pursue our dreams, even when the path is difficult or unconventional. It is the resolve to keep going when challenges arise, to find meaning in our efforts, and to remain faithful to our values. Success is not an endpoint; it is a process—a journey shaped by resilience and integrity.
Ultimately, the true measure of success is deeply personal. It is not defined by the accumulation of wealth, the recognition of others, or the pursuit of power. Rather, it lies in living authentically, making a difference in the lives of others, and finding joy in the things that matter most. Success is not about what we have—it is about who we become. The question, then, is not whether we appear successful in the eyes of others, but whether we feel successful in the depths of our soul.
Start with a smile, a wave, or hello— A small act of kindness helps friendships grow. It costs not a penny to ask, “How are you?” A neighborly bond begins there, fresh and new.
Lend a hand when they need, without keeping score, Whether moving a couch or holding a door. When storms leave a mess, pitch in and sweep, It’s these little gestures that make roots run deep.
Keep the noise down when the clock strikes late, And if hosting a party, communicate. Respect makes a neighborhood peaceful and bright, With each person valued, the vibe just feels right.
Share what you can—like cookies or tools— Generosity strengthens community rules. An open hand or a listening ear, Can lighten a load or quiet a fear.
Why does it matter to be good and kind? Because in our neighbors, we refuge find. When illness knocks or life gets tough, It’s neighbors who show love is enough.
A good neighbor isn’t just one who’s polite— They shine through in darkness, a guiding light. In kindness, compassion, and deeds we share, We build a community beyond mere repair.
At the end of the day, when help’s ever near, We thrive knowing neighbors will always appear. So be that friend, that shelter, that guide— Together we flourish, together we stride.
I’ve made up my mind—this is the year, Pickleball mastery is finally near! I’ll be agile, precise, quick on my feet, Dodging that wiffleball, light and elite.
First step: I’ll need the right pickleball gear, (Though, let’s be real—just shorts and a beer). Google says paddles come in all sorts, Do I need one for pros? Or just casual sports?
Next up: I’ll study the rules, nice and slow, “The kitchen?” What kitchen? Do I bring dough? It’s all sounding strange—but hey, I’ll adapt! Who knew a sport could leave me so trapped?
I’ll pencil in workouts to build up my game, (Though Netflix might call me—those workouts feel lame). I’ll practice my footwork and swinging technique, In my living room first, at least twice a week.
I can already see it—my dazzling debut! Crowds will cheer when I score—maybe one or two. I’ll high-five my teammates and grin ear to ear, “Natural talent!” They’ll shout—wait, what’s that? A tear?
But truth be told, plans don’t always get done, And my coordination might make folks run. Still, even if I flub it and can’t hit the ball, It’s learning that counts—win, lose, or fall!
So here’s to my humble intentions, half-baked as they seem, To pickleball dreams and my couch-bound regime. I may not be ready quite yet for the court, But soon—probably—just probably—I’ll dominate the sport!
“. . . .give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus,” 1 Thessalonians 5:18.
Revised 3:08 HST, 11/11/2022
Admit it, try
Or deny:
But fortune cookies aside,
At some point in our lives,
We missed thanking
Someone’s kind thing. . .
. . . generosity, courtesy,
Loyalty, empathy,
Devotion and affection.
Take it literally,
But better yet spiritually:
It would be nice to have a Bible on the side;
Read Genesis and you’ll get it right,
Who created the air we breathe?
Are we entitled to all the endowments and gifts,
Even the benefits and privileges we received?
Is reciprocity given?
Truth,
Plain truth:
Thank you can bring sunshine
To one’s cloudy day.
To a call center rep,
It’s a jackpot
To hear a customer say.
Thank you when receives,
Is a recognition of good deeds,
Of hard work,
Of goin’ the extra mile,
Of gifts and pleasant things, bringing smiles
And music to ears.
Thank you when spoken,
Is a testament of a character,
Of an attitude,
Even of a fortitude.
It may sound so common;
so rudimentary;
But when we earnestly say,
“Thank you;”
We experience divinity.
Personal: Thank you WordPress! For your gracious visits, generous likes, and kind comments—I am so humbled to have your amazing support. And I hope to return the favor soon. Take care y’all. I love you! God bless always.
Lyrics, Sentiments and Me 
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