new to the group -- introduction (long post)
Hieronymous707
At one time or other, everyone has pensively considered a story book, a song, a
painting, a play, a movie or some other such creative representation.
That’s a good thing, I suppose, but the extent and degree to which the effect
of the material is identical to that intended by its creator is neither
knowable nor particularly relevant. To each new association, we bring and are
influenced by a life's history of past influences and associations. In that
respect we are each entirely unique. No two people have "been there" and "done
that" in exactly the same fashion and order. That is not to suggest that one
should not consider and attempt to understand a given author's intentions.
Indeed, to ignore the purpose of the author, and any subsequent critical
analysis, in making individual value judgments is the essence of intellectual
sloth. The irony and paradox is that, despite endeavoring to bring as much
information as possible to bear, any assessment one makes will still be
fundamentally arbitrary.
A priori, a posteriori, archetype, or whatever, there appears to exist within
the human genus a commonality of experience, and by correlation, a commonality
of obstacles that must be encountered, addressed, and resolved, in order to
facilitate evolution as an individual, a culture, and as a species. They are
experienced constantly, perpetually, in a myriad of ways, for they are the
friction, the conflict, that propel life, and us through it. Their nature is
cyclic, ever repeating until resolved, and virtually incalculable in number.
Clues that hint at their resolution bombard the senses constantly. Their
variety and complexity are common to all, thereby allowing for mutual,
empathetic assistance in their resolution. This material comprises, and
represents in symbolic form, a dream of resolution and the path to its
realization, the resolution and realization of hieronymous707 … for what
that’s worth.
The fundamental philosophical approach of this effort is in examining and
addressing questions like, what am I missing; where is it; why is it important;
and what should be done about it. If science is defined as the systematic
observation, evaluation, and assessment of physical, visible, phenomena or
manifestations, then the hymns of hieronymous707 are the similar study and
investigation of the invisible, but true, aspects of Man, at least one man, and
his nature. This book is an allegory, and written in the languages of simile,
analogy, and poetry ... it represents a game for one … and an other.
"Thus in the beginning the world was so made that certain signs come before
certain events." Cicero - De Divinatione
***
i'd like to show you something i've been thinkin' 'bout a while, you know,
it's really not just one thing, and it may not be the style that you are used
to, but i think that if you give it half a chance, you'll see what i mean, when
i say that circumstance makes one a king, and only you can say which
consecrated rhythms will mark time, but ain't it funny how a schism unites this
syncopated rhyme, and if you'd like an explanation, i will gladly give it
voice, you see, regarding which words i will use, an arbitrary choice for me,
so in appreciation and to show you what it's worth to me, until i hear from
you, i vow you'll hear nothing but dearth from me, so maybe you'll explain
something i do not understand, you see, i have so many friends with their heads
stuck in la-la land, and i'm not sure if that's because they simply do the best
they can, and cannot seem to separate themselves from where trouble began, or
if it's true what wise men say about the brotherhood of man, and that it's
really all a part of some humongous master plan, i know i don't think it is
either/or but won't impose a ban, because it's like i said before, i simply do
the best i can.
***
a silly poem: I like
I like to go for walks
Sometimes I like to walk all the way down to the corner
and turn a phrase
"There is nothing to fear, but fear itself."
Yeah, like I'm supposed to be a phrase
Especially now that you're here
Now we can walk together
unafraid … in a phrase
This is our sentence.
"Walk this world with me."
-hi-
"Step right up!", the barker hollered, "It will only cost a dollar!",
as the crowd meandered through the fair.
"Have your future fortune read!", his voice still rings loud in my head.
You should have seen it, everyone was there.
So I stepped up, dollar in hand, and gave it to that carny man,
and disappeared within the carny tent.
The fortune teller was a card, I swear I've never laughed so hard,
with no doubt, the best buck I ever spent.
I still recall with full intent, exactly what that fortune meant.
It comes to my mind each and every day.
"Tell the Truth, do what you will, but if you lie then please lie still."
These are wise words ... well, all right, they're okay:
***
"Confessions of a Card Reader"
The Fortune Teller’s Story
"Let me assert definitively at the outset that although I have been called many
things, I am am not many things. I am not accurately referred to as a Gypsy, a
witch, a pagan, a Jungian psychologist, an occultist, an astrologer, or a
"new-ager". I am not incorrectly referred to as a psychic, a mystic, a seer,
or even, technically, a fortune teller. Not that the aforementioned should or
should not be appreciated in their own right and context, I am simply trying to
establish that I have no particularly relevant bias or agenda in regard to such
labels. I suppose that I am, for lack of any better description, a card
reader, or perhaps even more precisely, a card story teller, and this is my
story:
One of the singularly most memorable and influential events in my early life
was when, at the age of eight or nine, my Pop-Pop taught me to play Solitaire.
I mean to say, of course, that I was eight or nine, my Pop was considerably
older. With a standard deck of fifty-two cards, I not only began to develop the
requisite strategic and associative skills, but through that game and the
opportunity for solitude and introspection it provided, and particularly under
my pop's tutelage, I also began to consider more philosophical questions like:
'Who was cheating and who was cheated if I moved or revealed a card out of
turn?'; and, 'Since there was nothing significantly gained when the game was
over, was the value of the game in the playing or the winning? If the former,
why want to win? If the latter, why not cheat?' Pop was always quizzing me
and making pointed remarks in that regard. It was hard to just 'play a game'
when he was around. He was real big on life lessons that way. Pop was a
lay-preacher, and never missed an opportunity to impart a tid-bit of his
biblical perspective.
On one occasion, in the midst of one of our card playing forays, I remember him
using the deck to illustrate the story of _The Soldier's Prayer Book_. The
story tells of how a simple soldier used a deck of cards as a missal, each card
with its own significant representations: 1 (ace), signifying that there is
only one God; 2, the two Testaments of the Bible; 3, the Holy Trinity; 4, the
four Gospels, and so on. Although much of the religious significance was lost
on me, my Pop could sure tell a story. I was so taken by the experience that,
soon after, I began to create variations on the theme. You have to remember,
this was an era somewhat previous to Sony and Sega, Nintendo and Netscape, when
children had to find other venues for self-amusement. With the same deck, I
would assign each card a meaning that held personal significance. As I recall,
hearts meant love and romance, diamonds stood for money and wealth, spades
indicated work or business and, clubs represented conflict. Numbered cards were
similarly assigned. 1, indicated self, as of course, there is only one of me;
2, stood for two parents; 3, for me, signified animals of all things. (I think
because I owned three dogs at the time.) And so on. Individual court cards were
frequently assigned the persona of a particular friend, family member, or even
the qualities of a favorite comic book character. Once assigned, I would lay
out the cards in a line, one after the other, and begin to create a story based
on the cards that were revealed. I would continue to lay cards and add to the
tale until it had reached, in my estimation, a satisfactory conclusion.
The seemingly natural progression of things dictated that at some point not too
long thereafter, I began telling stories to and for other people. Eventually, I
became a fairly adept story teller in my own right. Stylistically, and I'm sure
this too was due in part to Pop's influence, the stories often took on a
quality similar to biblical parables - first asking then answering rhetorical
questions, and using metaphor and analogy with seeming reckless abandon. Soon
a quality to the stories began to emerge that appeared to strike a resonant
tone - a poignancy - with many listeners. Some were amused, some amazed, and
more than a few were affected so emotionally as to even shed a tear or two.
All in all, my presentations were very well received, and my relative celebrity
grew until I became the resident parlor trick and party favor for most of my
community.
I was introduced to my first yogi when I was twelve years old. No, he was not
a Hindu ascetic nor was he especially "mystical" in any way. To the contrary,
he was actually a short, pudgy, rather amiable fellow named Phill, who's stage
name was "Yogi", and he was a professional magician who owned a magic and
novelty store downtown. I was so enamored of this man and his shop that I spent
every day after school and all day Saturday watching and demonstrating card
tricks and close-up magic for the customers in the store proper, and doing my
story telling routine in the back room. That is, when I wasn't busy price
gunning new items, stocking shelves, and pulling dust bunnies from their
erstwhile hiding places.
It was here that I encountered my first real deck of Tarot cards, and to tell
the truth, I wasn't particularly impressed. Phill stocked several different
decks, but which they were specifically I really couldn't say. I do recall that
they were too big for me to palm, fan, or do sleights of hand with, which were
my primary interests in cards at the time. It was remarked that my card
reading stories resembled Gypsy fortune telling, and suggested that I
incorporate the tarot cards into my routine. I was reticent at first because,
as I said, the cards were hard to manipulate. But because of persistent
requests, and because people were now willing to pay me for my stories, I
slowly began to assimilate the Tarot into the process. It wasn't easy. There
were significantly more cards than I was used to, and the images on the cards
were entirely unfamiliar. I perused several books in the library, but to be
quite honest, the material was way over my head. The Little Book of directions
that came with the deck wasn't much help either. It did give a general overview
of the trump cards and a description of the several ways to spread them, but
the addition of the new cards and the application of these new concepts
distinctly inhibited what had become a rather natural process for me. And it
certainly had a deleterious effect on my stories, which became trite and
repetitive. Who knows, perhaps it was due to youth and lack of understanding,
or to the pressure of performing. In any event, I soon lost whatever "magic"
had made my stories meaningful. I felt like I was just going through the
motions. Besides, other personal interests were taking precedence in my life.
By the time I got to college, I thought I had forsaken card reading altogether.
I entered school as a biology major, but soon found my interests gravitating
more towards the humanities. The fields of psychology, theology, literature,
and philosophy held more intrigue for a youth on the path to self-discovery
("The unexamined life ..." and all that). I mention academics only because it
was the discipline afforded by use of the scientific method (formulation and
testing of hypothesis) and the use of the dialectic (thesis, antithesis,
synthesis) that ultimately allowed for the development of a distinct and
articulable personal philosophy with regard to card reading. But I'll get to
that later. I began working my way through school in the same, time honored
fashion as countless other students have before and since - I waited tables.
Living in a large city afforded the opportunity to jockey for position, moving
from restaurant to restaurant in quest of the ever elusive, 'Big Tips'. Perhaps
serendipitously, I found myself employed at a rather famous downtown eatery,
with photographs of entertainers, athletes, politicians, and celebrities of all
sorts lining the walls from floor to ceiling. This restaurant had a fifty year
tradition of card reading fortune tellers plying their trade to the stars and
star-struck alike. It didn't take me long to realize that while I busted my
butt from six till two slinging salads and humping trays full of steaming
dishes back and forth across the dining room, these card readers sat in
relative comfort, feeding the imaginations of the breadstick munching masses,
and making considerably more money than me besides. I wanted in on the action.
I had just one small problem, an annoying little notion called 'personal
integrity'. I wasn't sure whether or not I even 'believed' in card reading or
fortune telling. Were pictures on pasteboard truly facilitators to the future,
and were the fables I was able to concoct truly capable of providing any
insight that could help anyone lead a more fulfilled and productive life? I
went to my father for advice. As a physician would counsel a student, his
preliminary enjoinder was to an essential tenant of the Hippocratic Oath - to
first do no harm. Don't advise anyone to step in front of a truck, on the off
chance that they may indeed go looking for heavy traffic. Secondly, he
reminded me not to take myself too seriously. Anyone who was looking for the
key to life's mysteries over a bowl of crab soup, deserved little more than the
counsel befitting a glutton. Finally, he told me to, in the face of all
contradiction, be honest and forthright. If I advised nothing more than to "be
good to the family, don't kick the dog, and remember to brush your teeth", I
was still performing a service of value … albeit minuscule. Thus informed,
and armed with a variety of card decks, I returned to take my place among the
fortune telling few - "ten dollars, ten minutes, no refunds".
To bring this story to a succinct and timely conclusion, all of this transpired
several more than several years ago. You'll pardon if I keep the exact number
modestly to myself. Since that time, I have grown and aged, sometimes
gracefully, sometimes less so. I still tell tales, as indeed this story
attests, teaching those that would learn and providing my best advice and
counsel when asked. But mostly I am content to recount and relive the passions
of my youth, constantly invigorated and rejuvenated, through the eyes of my own
son, and the cycle continues. Here, let me tell you a story ..."
Then he said …
"My name is hieronymous, poet profit, and sage.
You are my audience. This is my stage.
I verse on all topics, I don't have a 'druther.
You pick the first one, then I'll pick another.
***
The form of my payment requires you two things.
First, follow the meter, then listen, it sings.
The sound you will hear only lasts for a moment.
Latch on to the concept, and then let it foment.
***
You must pay attention to glean any worth.
You must pay respect to all others on Earth.
These "musts" are quite musty, so strict and so stern
and you’re free to choose just what lesson you learn
***
so see if i care if you do what you will
you did it before, and i'm sure you do still
if attention and respect are things you think musty,
perhaps you should pull out that old feather dusty
***
that's just a suggestion, don't take it to heart
unless you agree, then i'd say here’s a start
So, what do you get for your payment submission?
Well, put it this way - "Poems On Commission"
***
This isn't that urgent, don't call 911
These rhymes are for you, we’re just having some fun
The only thing here that I want you to see
is that one can be saved by ESP
***
Sense extra perceptively, and you can tell
that means Emergency Services Personnel
So think of a number, then send it to heaven
it returns to Earth as a 707
***
Now LOL, see, I just turned a funny
If you’re laughing out loud then you’re right on the money
from origins unknown that remain anonymous
I’m proud to present for you now, me, hieronymous
***
i'm kind of an artist, but I’m not that cat
the name that i use goes back farther than that
Mssr. Bosch weren't the first one, i think you should know
i'm 707th, with a long line to go
***
707, LOL, see, it’s palandromatical
and sometimes, not always, fanatic grammatical
And this is just that, and a whole lot more
Just wait ‘til you see what I have yet in store
***
So carry on now, move along, have a look
and oh, by the way, what’d you pay for this book?
-hi-
zzzzzzzzz
wrote:
>Preface
>
>At one time or other, everyone has pensively considered a story book, a song, a
>painting, a play, a movie or some other such creative representation.
>That’s a good thing, I suppose, but the extent and degree to which the effect
>of the material is identical to that intended by its creator is neither
>knowable nor particularly relevant. To each new association, we bring and are
>influenced by a life's history of past influences and associations. In that
>respect we are each entirely unique. No two people have "been there" and "done
>that" in exactly the same fashion and order. That is not to suggest that one
>should not consider and attempt to understand a given author's intentions.
>Indeed, to ignore the purpose of the author, and any subsequent critical
>analysis, in making individual value judgments is the essence of intellectual
>sloth. The irony and paradox is that, despite endeavoring to bring as much
>information as possible to bear, any assessment one makes will still be
>fundamentally arbitrary.
huge snip for bandwidth
>707, LOL, see, it’s palandromatical
>and sometimes, not always, fanatic grammatical
>And this is just that, and a whole lot more
>Just wait ‘til you see what I have yet in store
>***
>So carry on now, move along, have a look
>and oh, by the way, what’d you pay for this book?
>
>-hi-
Thanks for the interesting read, the insight and, welcome!
z.z.
--
mike II
=========================================
i'd like to show you something i've been thinkin' 'bout a while,
but ain't it funny how a schism unites this syncopated rhyme,
so in appreciation and to show you what it's worth to me,
until i hear from you, i vow you'll hear nothing but dearth from me,
so maybe you'll explain something i do not understand, you see,
i have so many friends with their heads stuck in la-la land,
and i'm not sure if that's because they simply do the best they can,
and cannot seem to separate themselves from where trouble began,
or if it's true what wise men say about the brotherhood of man,
and that it's really all a part of some humongous master plan,
i know i don't think it is either/or but won't impose a ban,
because it's like i said before, i simply do the best i can.
I found your missing 'new lines' and 'carriage returns' and reinserted
them, along with some capital letters which show a rearrangement (by
unknown and obviously arrogant persons) of existing original words. Hi,
Hi!
mike II
--
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
/ /\ / /\ / /\ / /\ / /\ / /\ / /\ / /
/ /\ \/ /\ \/ohm...@spots.ab.ca/\ \/ /\ \/ /
/_/ \/_/ \/_/ \/_/ \/_/ \/_/ \/_/ \/_/
Hieronymous707
>Date: 5/26/2002 12:04 AM Eastern Daylight Time
>Message-id: <3CF05EBC...@spots.ab.ca>
>
>Hieronymous707 wrote:
Dear mike II,
What you posted is not technically what I wrote or how I wrote it.
mike II wrote:
For your information, there are no missing new lines, however that verse has
undergone changes from its original text. You cannot reinsert carriage returns
that weren't there in the first place, but you are welcome to add them if you
think it makes the verse more readable. Your capitalizations and rearrangement
of text significantly alters the original intent of the author, although I
happen to know for a fact that your doing so did not upset the author one
little bit. Just don't say he wrote it that way.
Further, and although you remain individually unknown to me, I have no
indication that more than one person made the alterations, or that they were
arrogant in doing so.
-hi-
Hieronymous707
>Thanks for the interesting read, the insight and, welcome!
>z.z.
If you have the time and inclination, pull up a chair, get comfortable.
There's more to come ...
If you don't mind
and if you will allow,
I will tell you a story,
and you will like it very much.
Then I will tell you more stories,
and you will like them very much as well.
They are very special stories.
Some are brief. Some are epic. Some rhyme.
Some will make you laugh. Some will make you cry.
They will touch you. They are very special that way.
They are simple stories, you will tell them to your children.
They are complex stories, you will discuss them in detail.
You will share them with your friends.
You will save them and cherish them.
You will love them, I know.
You will value them forever.
These stories are offered freely.
They are yours to keep and share.
They are not free, however. You must pay for them.
You will pay because you will value the stories dearly.
And everyone with whom you share them will also pay,
and they will thank you for the privilege,
and all payments will be greatly appreciated
because you will pay ...
attention.
***
Here begins our first story.
It is both a story and a magic trick in one.
It will amaze you. It will leave you spellbound.
It will make your mind *go*
and you will begin to understand.
If you are ready, we will begin.
***
Take a deep breath.
Make a wish for someone.
Think of a word.
It could be any word
but for the sake of unity
let's think of the same word.
Let's think of the word man.
Consider the word man and all that it means.
Think of a man.
Say the word in your head
man
Think of the sound it makes in your mind.
Extend the word
maaaaaaan
Hear the sound of the word.
Say the word
maaaaaaan.
Think of the primary letter in the word that makes the sound.
a
Think of the sound the letter makes in the word.
Hear the sound.
Make the sound
aaaaaaa.
Keep the sound in your mind.
***
Now think of a woman that you love
a mother, a daughter, a sister, a wife
Think of your love for her.
Think of her love for you.
Be embraced and enveloped by it,
engulfed and absorbed in it.
Wonder in it.
Think of love.
Now think of the woman you love making the sound - "aaa".
Think of the woman you love hearing the sound - aaa.
Think of the woman you love thinking the sound - (aaa).
Think love sound.
*Breathe*
***
Do you get it?
That is how to read these stories
or you wont.
If you are not sure you understand, you may need more magic.
Read on.
***
magic spelling
May I have your attention, a simple moment of your time?
All you have to do is sit and listen to my rhyme.
God knows it won't take too long, I really haven't much to say.
I hope you do not mind that it's presented here this way.
Can you find the pattern? Think! Study the chronology.
Still, don't worry if it takes a while, I'm something of a prodigy.
Practice does make perfect, isn't it obvious as to why?
Everything's revealed to you. It's right before your eye.
Look on this as a lesson, examine everything you see.
Like why is it important that this line should end in G.
***
-hi-
why
Sometimes I wax grammatical, in iambic word succession.
The words, and not thoughts, proceed in linear progression.
To learn is but to ascertain by inquiry and study,
to formulate within the mind what once was silly putty.
The path is but a process: what to discard, what to keep.
Ideas are quite different, they require a quantum leap.
***
rev it up
This baby is something else, it's meter ain't no bummer
You can take it anywhere, it runs just like a Hummer
It will go on and off road, power in any clime
Built for durability, it brakes right on a dime
If your concern is syllables, the placement of, I wrote
Consider imposing musical bars, and one or two half-notes
now you start to understand basic philosophy
knowledge firmly based, herein:
***
a classical prosody
***
0
here begins another story
it is a rhyme it is a lesson
it is intended for everyone
it was written just for you
portrayed as empty, a simpleton in suspended reality
the co-conspiring victim of synchronicity
impulsively directed by spontaneity
(like janice joplin sang about in 'me and bobby magee')
so foolishly prospecting for possibility
while trusting in the mystery of providential divinity
I
projecting your authority can surely inspire pride
acknowledged for accomplishments, now time is on your side
strive to be objective and avoid what will offend
remember, it's all cyclical from now until the end
in the presence of a purpose uncontrolled by world events
centered on the here and now, a message heaven sent
study this one carefully, take notes and imitate
accomplish this and you will see a glimpse of your own fate
read between the lines but keep the drama clear in focus
when you elevate to security, don't get lost in hocus-pocus
*breathe again*
II
the ability to see yourself for who you really are
is a sign of self and will intact with love to raise the bar
look back and track the larger trends that drive you to success
and you will see just how things change without changing more or less
don't compromise your innate sense, it serves you every day
recall the ancient axiom, where there's will there is a way
believe in your ability, but don't be burdened by perfection
be patient and accepting and you'll like your own reflection
no obstacle to truth is there, so believe it and relax
when good and light shine down it will illuminate the facts
*blink*
III
humility can help you now, though it doesn't come naturally
friends who are open and willing to give can teach you empathy
wear the shoes of one you know and envision the large benefit
when you attempt to see both sides you'll find they have a much better fit
your image of self is of someone who acts, no matter what the past has been
proceed into your future, move forward though the path is unseen
reorganization is called for, it's time to regenerate
though self-direction is laudable, you may have too much on your plate
there are many resources available to you, take it easy as you go
don't be seduced by how easy it is, it's best if you take it quite slow
***
IV
tested like a student to take account of competence
you've achieved all expectations, your obligations have been met
soon drawn into a project that requires all you are able
you must have versatility, you must also be stable
your resolve must be unequivocal to do precisely what it takes
consider all your options, but accept for heaven sakes
the stimulus is considerable, be quick, adapt and move
the sequence is transformative once you get into the groove
the situation is fortunate, take advantage while you can
but be careful with the knowledge that could destroy a smaller man
***
V
cultivated attitudes and habits of a winner
trained to notice traits in both the saint and in the sinner
miracles occur with group discovery successes
a gift for all who recognize who lies and then confesses
there is no need to emphasize that which otherwise would negate
some feel they dare not dream because too much is on their plate
be humble, do not point at them in ways that will embarrass
the light that shines for all to see is not intended to scare us
be guided by self-knowledge, by your conscience and your soul
your feisty provocations will advance you to your goal
*look again*
fish bait
I’d like to take you fishing, if not now then maybe later
I’m sure we would catch many fish, you are a master baiter
so, hello, master baiter, it’s apparent what you’re wishing
pardon if we don’t shake hands, (I know where you’ve been fishing)
-hi-
VI
the potential to discover truly wondrous emotions
to fill many hearts with ecstasy now that you have begun
follow up relationships, new contacts that you make
it's important to do what you love, it's love for heaven's sake
keep conversations personal and humorous to feel
communicate your compromise if you want to make this deal
an opportunity approaches to accomplish an important task
it does require commitment to gain the rewards for which you've asked
you must, however, discriminate, be careful how you choose
treasure those you decide to keep, for others you will lose
*walk*
VII
it's difficult to feel secure when moving at this pace
but trust will surely follow once you protect your private place
there are those who challenge themselves to exceed their personal best
cooperatively performing head and shoulders above the rest
stirred to excel by cheerers on to rise to the occasion
aroused, engaged, and inspired by adulation and ovation
in friendly competition, rewards for all who participate
it's exciting once you realize that it really never is too late
you save the day, a hero, but it's not just about fame and praise
work must be done, so do it in fun and the best work of all will be raised
*move again*
VIII
there's bound to be some confusion now, so prepare psychologically
and the tinge of doubt you feel will never overcome your self-belief
be patient, don't lose sight of your goal when at the mercy of fate
though these may be times that try your soul, continue, persist, stimulate
when affected by a censure, every slight is magnified
stressful situations can eat you up if kept inside
learn from past experience, reinterpret and create
adjust your plans with knowledge that you can affect your fate
life under expectations can affect you outer look
uphold your sense of inner worth, stop going strictly by the book
IX
imbalance institutionalized in culture is a frustrating predicament
nothing anyone tries to do seems to make any difference
a significant disparity exists between those who have and have not
but attempts to help the disempowered can drain you of all you've got
lighten up, no advantage by thinking you're the only one who knows
only spontaneous developments have the power to direct the flow
surrounded by those taking sides, resist the impulse to join the fray
no one has all the facts yet, uncertainty still rules the day
who wants to be a millionaire, now everyone can be
a million friends through thick and thin, so begin with you and me
***
X
the time has come for changes, transformation very real
it's safe, move on, don't be afraid, it's time to spin the wheel
return to that which kindled you, creativity inspired
the things that once would weigh you down will no longer make you tired
open to ideas that surround you and agree
trust them when they are at their best for all the world to see
traits pass through generations both for better and for worse
the current situation reflects its blessing and its curse
you can't escape your heritage, so confront it face to face
spring to action, chart a course, your struggle is no disgrace
*listen*
now for something different
this here-is a-po·em-I know-it looks-a lit·tle-dif·fer·ent
if you-take a-few min·utes-for this-you may find-they will have-been well
spent
wheth·er-or not-you like-it you are-in·vit·ed-to sing-kar·a·o·ke
don't wor·ry-I'm sure-the oth·ers-won't mind-in fact-I'm sure
it's-o·key-do·key
it took-a while-to make-this up-much lon·ger than-your read·ing
time spent-on this-is mine-it's now-your time-that we're-con·ced·ing
don't think-I don't-ap·pre·ci·ate it-your time-is quite-val·u·a·ble
I would·n't-take it-from you-un·less-all my cards-were out-on the ta·ble
it may-be a-cli·ché-to say-we make-the best-of all cards dealt
an·y-oth·er plea-it seems-to me-would be-let's say-less than heart-felt
to tell-you what-I hope-this has not-been what you
call-o·ver·ly-dis·tract·ing
but if-you got-the dash·es-and dots-you'll find that-they have
been-di·dact·ing
to think-to try-to rea·son why-you do-what you do-when you do it
is to-think you-won't do-it too-when eve·ry·one else has been through it
the proof-pro·ceeds-in words-and deeds-right here-in per·son-on pa·per
and you-just might-own a cop·y·right-if this pa·per-is part of-the ca·per
just nod-to see-if you-a·gree-for ad·vice-ask a close-a·mi·go
to en·sure-your ease-I ask-you please-make sure you go-just be·fore we go
I mean-no of·fense-when I talk-this non·sense-It's a gift-at a price-so I
bought it
but it leaves one to won·der-
the world torn a·sun·der-
and me ask·ing-?-
do you think they got it
***
XI
it's up to you to decide the way, to know what's to be done
it's an opportune time to organize, be energetic and have fun
assert your independence, don't depend on promises made
do the things you can do for yourself if you want the bills to get paid
when something pits you against your own, family, co-workers or friends
be mindful that in your relationships, means are not justified by ends
what others think doesn't matter, so you really shouldn't fret it
it's silly to subject yourself to the influence of those that don't get it
charismatic people attract like bees to a flower
confront your fear of being alone to release your hidden power
***
XII
you lead the way and must decide which doors to open or close
leave the past where it belongs, embrace the future that you chose
the sacrifice can stress you out, but you certainly can handle it
a radical change is inevitable, so there's no use in resisting it
the aesthetic quality of your work is threatened by the need to produce
the pressures you feel are a byproduct of how success can also seduce
it's risky and uncomfortable, the position you are in
entrusting to others so much of yourself in the endeavor you begin
there is no formula, no guarantee, rigorous effort is demanded
have faith, have hope and confidence, and this fish too will be landed
***
XIII
nature cuts off your access, can't get there from here that's a fact
though you cannot control the changes, you can control how you react
though others jump to conclusions, you needn't go this way or that
have patience, the truth will reveal itself, it wasn't that serious a spat
trust in their integrity and their ability to be clear
free of sentimentality as they cut from ear to ear
it's springtime for you too so blossom, act quickly the timing is now you know
it's a great opportunity, it matters not why it's the how
experience the victory as you cross the finish line
cherish what we have made together, it's ours remember, not mine
*hear again*
XIV
your abundance has obligations that require you to go on
to build on the foundation you have tempered to be strong
trust in those that brought you up, express truth without worry or want
obliged to do what must be done, mentors will not understand can't
learn both from success and failure, note what works and what don't
imagine the world aesthetically, don't let the past define you and it won't
release yourself from what used to be, detachment your hallmark today
consider it a change of season, the chill is over with warm on the way
keep focused on the long distance, look past this week or this year
investments will pay compound interest and prove you had nothing to fear
*think*
XV
the impediments that have held you back were put there by yourself
in the interest of safety, you put achievement on the shelf
though tortured by self-mastery but centered in the present
experience and discipline allow passions heaven sent
acting out or injuring, the knowledge is astounding
there's enormous help available, never mind who you are rousing
but prepare for disappointment, fellows may be letting you down
don't expect the field to be level, 'me first' can screw you around
make contact with the one whose influence you cannot resist
the assistance will prove invaluable, though you may have to insist
***
potty humor
sometimes I pick my nose when I am sitting on the can
you should know what happens next, ‘cause you’re the boogie, man
the boogie man’s important, though some might think he’s snot
I flick it off my finger and I flush it down the pot
XVI
make yourself enough so you can blast right out of here
lightening strikes but once for most, it's that you need to fear
so it's a shock, what else is new, it happens every day
don't say i didn't warn you if you miss your chance today
look at how distracted you are, cut through what's slowing you down
you can find out what you stand for where what you're against is found
an electrifying drive to victory, an unstoppable change sweeping through
exciting times though quite chaotic, don't let them go by without you
it may upset at first, though it will soon be viewed a gift
the strife and turmoil incumbent to yet another paradigm shift
***
XVII
she knows why she's here so emulate her to get what you want to achieve
an understanding of purpose, and of how to give and to receive
disciplined in ways to clearly see the openings
look past the obstacles because they do not mean a thing
read the bottle, what does it say, 'no deposit, no return'
the heavens also chart a view of lessons you should learn
be more regular in spiritual practice, to benefit please cooperate
of course we all have distractions, but your routine has been lacking of late
it's teamwork over personal goals, everyone needs to contribute
if this isn't a unified effort, the progress made is kaput
*think again*
XVIII
it's run amuck, it's out of control, it has taken on a life of its own
caught inside consequences, it takes effort to cope with outcomes
you have the ability to do whatever you want, so do it and get on with it
it can be an evolutionary step, so don't be a procrastinating nitwit
normalcy disrupted, it's a radical shakeup
focus on the task at hand, hunker down and cover up
rely on the senses nature gave since you can't control the ending
knowing when to cut your losses is the key to keep on winning
a spirit of excitement emerging, everyone feels the effects
though it may only be temporary, it's the best of its kind witnessed yet
*talk*
XIX
an environment brimming with kindness, an abundance of care and support
everyone looking after each other, concern of a friendly sort
a force to benefit the people, a tool, a service, a plan
others rely on your values, spread the wealth because you're the (wo)man
salutations from those who admire you, a blessing to cherish for all time
elevated in warm recognition of that which you know is sublime
act on your passion's conviction, continue to articulate
assert without inner restriction, tomorrow just might be too late
on the brink of many dimensions, developments unfold as they merge
no one comprehends every detail, but you can appreciate the new surge
***
XX
you must submit to the judgment, you may not enter a plea
your thoughts and words are on display for all the world to see
prepare, the questions are coming, defensiveness won't win the day
there may still be time to get ready, you can't win if you won't risk the play
your environment demands extreme effort that pushes you right to the edge
don't exceed what is healthy, it messes with body, spirit, and head
family patterns traits and such are things that we can't change
regenerating sins pass on, we just can't rearrange
the best and worst that we possess are passed one to another
sometimes it's difficult to just admit that all of us are brothers
***
XXI
look within and recognize that part of you resents
for that's the thing that keeps you stuck in this cycle of events
generally you move along, taking the better and the worse
but part of you is stuck on pause, resisting closure of this verse
scrutinize your attitude, is it prompted by resistance
examine your hesitation, it will strengthen your insistence
soon comes a chance to realize a dream, efforts about to bear fruit
be sensible, practical lest you discover that the project has cost all your
loot
the assignment requires diplomacy, coded messages passed back and forth
the outcome is shrouded in obscurity, use detection for all that it's worth
*say it again*
Finally
*breathe* to free your sinuses and smell the winds of change
*blink* to free your eyes so you can see the path again
*walk* to free your body and rise from the earth beneath
*listen* to free your ears and you will hear the sound of peace
*think* to free your mind for only knowledge conquers fear
*talk* to free your voice and then discuss what you hold dear
practice these things purposefully, their simplicity takes you far
perfection comes by service, that's what makes you a *star*
***
regards
-hi-
Hieronymous707
>If you have the time and inclination, pull up a chair, get comfortable.
>There's more to come ...
Quiz #1
Okay, this is a quiz.
I know, I know. Nobody wants a quiz, but you should know this stuff by now.
I do.
I know a lot about this stuff -- … word magic.
That is simply a fact. No boast.
I don't want your opinion about that.
If I did, I'd ask.
It is simply a fact.
I know things that you don't.
Now, you may think I'm just full of fluff and stuff, or you might think I'm an
idiot, or a raving maniac, or a lunatic of sorts, but I'm not.
I am truly an authority, and as such I want to quiz you to find out what, if
anything, you know.
It’s a difficult quiz. I want to know how you think.
I don't particularly want to know why you think what you think..
That's for you to study on.
I only want to know how.
This quiz will assist in both of us finding that out. Sounds good, huh?
QUIZ: What do you think is unusual about this quiz?
It may look so ordinary, so typical. It’s just writing, right?
You might think nothing is wrong with it.
You might think it so silly, and so stupid, that it could slip right by you
without thought.
In fact, nothing is particularly 'wrong' with this quiz.
But it IS unusual.
It is not ordinary or typical.
What is it about this quiz?
Think about it.
I know that if you study it long and hard, it will finally dawn on you, no
doubt about it.
You won't know until you try.
Trust in your own ability.
Go for it. Do it now. Want a hint?
This quiz shows you how to look right at a thing, and find it missing.
That’s how magic works.
Okay, you should know a solution by now.
Look up.
Which way did "e" go?
"e" just ros(e).
-hi-
-----------------------
-----------------------
Quiz #2
That quiz was kind of fun, wasn’t it?
Want to do it again?
Okay.
Just as in my past quiz, I want you to find what is missing, vacant, from this
quiz.
This quiz is uncommon too, you know that now, right?
And it has much to do with word magic.
If you find that you cannot do this quiz, that's okay.
You can try again.
You can do that, can't you?
I am going to assist you in any way that I can.
Now, zip your mouth and stop thinking so hard.
In fact, think soft.
Think as soft as a baby's bottom.
Think of a baby.
Think of an uncommon baby.
Think of this baby, or that baby,
but without any doubt,
think of your baby if you can.
What is "your baby"?
Who is your baby?
That is most important.
Now, if I ask a "Q:", think of an "A:" with that in mind, okay?
Boy, this is hard, isn't it?
Think soft.
Think soft sounds.
Don't worry, the "A:" for this quiz is not far away.
I know you can't wait for it, but first things first.
Don't X anything out.
Opportunity knocks again and again.
Now think about this:
Q: What is a major part of, but uncommon and missing from, Christmas, Chanukah,
Ramadan, Kwanza ... Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, Jainism, Taoism and many,
many occasions and faiths?
Do you know?
Q: How can you say Happy Christmas without saying "Happy Christmas"?
Did you think of it?
Do you know now?
Think hard. Think soft.
Q: So, what is uncommon about this quiz? ...
A: No "e l".
Nyuk, nyuk, nyuk.
Smart, huh? Hahahahahaha!!
Good for you!
-hi-
mike II
>
> >From: mike II ohm...@spots.ab.ca
> >Date: 5/26/2002 12:04 AM Eastern Daylight Time
> >Message-id: <3CF05EBC...@spots.ab.ca>
> >
> >Hieronymous707 wrote:
>
> Dear mike II,
>
> What you posted is not technically what I wrote or how I wrote it.
My humblest apologies.
I've been fired from more proofreading and typesetting jobs than I can
remember. Perhaps it's time I looked for another line of work <g>
Hieronymous707
>My humblest apologies.
I was clarifying, not admonishing. Your apology, though unnecessary, is gladly
accepted. Let's move on.
>I've been fired from more proofreading and typesetting jobs than I can
>remember. Perhaps it's time I looked for another line of work <g>
I would probably stick with what I know, for better or worse, but that's just
me.
-hi-