'We are not punished for our sins but by them' Elbert Hubbard'

No other words ring more true. Maybe Mr. Hubbard meant it in a religious way, however, I think it applies to life in general. Our conscience, our guiding light, is usually our hardest judge. As humans, we have a capacity to be compassionate, and care for more than ourselves. This stops us from killing each other over simple territories, and eating other humans to survive. Charity and forgiveness of ourselves and one another is so important, because if we cannot forgive and show kindness, then we are lost as a society. As a large, global community, we would be so consumed with negativity, that nothing would ever get done and productivity would come to a halt, essentially, destruction by our own means, and thus, punishing ourselves by our own sins, and misgivings. Who are we to decide other's fate? Why is it so important to live large? What's wrong with living comfortably? There will come
a day, when we look back, and wonder about what we really accomplished. What's your legacy?

Things Are Always Changing

This once was a popular NAPA Auto Parts on the eastern part of Jacksonville. It's now becoming a beauty supply store. And this begins my thoughts. I'm in a relationship with a wonderful man, who loves and takes care of me. We have our issues, and due to several things recently, we've actually been angry at each other quite a bit. It's new for us. It's stress, and our situation, but we've perservered, maybe not always well, but we did. Our love is strong enough to withstand even the most intense conditions. Things are changing, and I'm not saying it's easy, but I think it's working rather well for us. We're maturing and learning more each day, about ourselves and each other. We are becoming largely more self aware, than ever before. In this growth, we are truly learning how to become one. I'm not trying to get mushy, or sappy. I just think that, love really does make you do stupid and
crazy things, and not all of it ends well. Life really is like a box of chocolates.

My Mother's Hands. Original work by Me.

There comes a time in one's life, that they begin to question everything they've been raised on. The traditions, customs, morals, and values of their family's history. And one begins to wonder, if she is turning into anything like her mother. A big heart, bruised by words and actions alike. Callous to a point, except when it comes to her children. And then I remember, even in the midst of all that I'm going thru, Yes, I'm just like my mother. I am the best parts of her. Rampant with passion and ingenuity. Creative beyond even genius capacity. Stubborn like a donkey, steadfast in what I believe. I fall hard, and love harder. I trust everything that smiles. I have my mother's hands. That, I'm most proud of. The hands that bathed me, when I was too young, who caressed my cheek when I was crying from broken heart. The hands that are attached to her arms, for amazing hugs...my mother's hands
.. I am proud to be my mother's daughter.