A New Book

A long time friend has decided to write a book, but she is having trouble getting started. I decided to help her and anyone else in the same boat by offering some suggestions.I never started out with the intention of being a writer, it just happened when the time was right. So these are my suggestions for my friend.

First begin with a working title. It can always be changed later. I always use my computer to write because it makes it simple to edit as you go. You need a strong first sentence to capture the attention of readers. You also need a good ending sentence to cause readers to think for themselves.

Now then, the first thing I would do is come up with a simple outline. Do you want to use chapters or just write as your words flow? I usually don't use an index because it takes up unwanted space. Always pay attention to messages that come out of the blue. They could be from your guide or soul mind, meant to help you. Another always is don't be afraid to use real life experiences to illustrate your thoughts. 

Read your work as a reader, not as a writer. If it doesn't make sense, change it. Just pretend you are talking to a friend. 

Those are my basic suggestions, now to see if she actually gets started with her book!

Remembering a question.

After viewing the damage done in Florida it reminded me of a question a Priest once asked. The question- If your house was burning down what would you take with you (except pets etc.)? The answer he was looking for- nothing.

Some of these poor people in the U.S. have lost everything they own. What a disaster! I am sitting alone (except for two dogs) in my home in New Mexico. I am feeling sorry for myself because most of my family don't even speak to me anymore. I do have one son and a grandson who speak to me, but that's about it. I have a few Facebook friends still communicating, which is good and I appreciate them.

I am thinking back in my life and wondering just why I deserve this situation. Perhaps it is because I have always said what I feel and it pisses people off. I"m wondering what is the point of being on earth if you are going to keep your mouth shut? There are people who constantly mouth off and it makes you wonder what planet they live on. I don't put myself in that category, but one can't live 87 years without having an opinion about things.

A first poem

 I didn't really like poetry until a friend said it was just another way of telling a story. This is my first poem.

Angels

Children are angels in disguise

Learning to live learning to love

If they didn't make mistakes now and then,

They'd have wings and halos and fly.

Barbara L. Gunn 1999