Category Archives: Sobriety

The Juggernaut of Self Will

Juggernaut: “Something such as a blind belief or institution, that elicits blind devotion to which someone is ruthlessly sacrificed.” ~ Merriam-Webster Dictionary A juggernaut of magical thinking has descended upon the land and caused many to detach themselves from the real world. This magical thinking has engendered a false sense of empowerment which manifests itself in the thought that through the strength of my will I … Continue reading The Juggernaut of Self Will »

Failure is a Gift

This week’s post was inspired by a conversation with Tucker McHugh, a high school classmate who I have known for over 50 years. It was originally posted in December of 2017. I was raised on Wheaties, “The Breakfast of Champions.” Winning defined the purpose of my every endeavor: winning at school, winning at sports, winning with friends.  Winning was symbolized by blue ribbons, gold stars, and A-pluses.  … Continue reading Failure is a Gift »

That Delicate Place

I learnedIn the college classTaught by a nun We turn to poetryWhen it’s the only way to touch That delicate, delicate placeFloating somewhere between inside and outside ~ Marsha Hahn Marsha, thank you for your poem and for reminding us that sometimes poetry is the only way to touch that delicate place. Kevin Miller, a poet friend of mine, sent me a poem by Jane … Continue reading That Delicate Place »

Some Battles Are With Us Always

NOTE: I recently wrote a post inspired by The Lord of the Rings. Since it was published I’ve had a number of additional thoughts about this literary masterpiece, which I share with you now. ~ Pat  Storytellers are gatekeepers to our conscious selves — where we learn everyone’s story is our story. Thank you to: Homer, for The Iliad and The Odyssey; Dante, for The … Continue reading Some Battles Are With Us Always »