• Writing

    Digital Immortality

    As a writer, the concept of legacy holds a particular resonance for me—a legacy not just of words, but of thoughts, emotions, and the indelible marks we leave upon the universe. In this era of unprecedented technological advancement, the notion of digital immortality stands at the forefront of a revolution in how we conceive of memory and legacy. Digital immortality, a term that once belonged to the realm of science fiction, has quietly insinuated itself into our reality through the corridors of social media, AI, and virtual avatars. These technological marvels promise an allure of permanence in a world characterized by transience, offering a form of immortality that is rooted…

  • Writing

    Living Like Ghosts

    In modern life, the colors of individuality and anonymity can blend into a complex pattern. I often ponder the desire of many to simply live their lives, and then be enveloped by oblivion upon their departure from this world. The societal shift towards seeking obscurity puzzles me, as it stands in stark contrast to one of my deepest fears—the fear of being forgotten. Throughout my life, I’ve tread the path of the unsung heroine, performing acts of kindness and courage without the expectation of accolades or recognition. My actions are driven by an innate sense of duty and compassion, never craving for the spotlight. Yet, the human part of me…

  • Writing

    Embracing Uniqueness

    This morning, as I looked out my bedroom window, a wash of early sunlight coming through the trees, a thought struck me—a thought so compelling, I knew I had to write it all down. Belonging, or more accurately, the lack thereof. In my case, it is the perpetual struggle to do so. Throughout my life, the scrutiny seemed endless. People often questioned everything about me, delving into aspects of my existence that were both personal and, frankly, none of their business. They questioned my sexuality, as if it were a puzzle for them to solve, not a facet of my identity. They doubted my intelligence, undermining my thoughts and contributions…

  • Cornerstone Content,  Writing

    The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same

    It’s a peculiarly early Sunday morning for me, the world outside still shrouded in the quiet darkness of the pre-dawn hours. As I sit here still in bed, a thought lingers in my mind: the more things change, the more they stay the same. This phrase echoes through the generations, each one pointing fingers at the one before, blaming them for the world’s woes. But really, aren’t we all just a continuation of a cycle, a pattern as old as time itself? Our current chapter, the Information Age, has us enthralled with numbers and statistics. Our worth, once measured in character and deeds, is now quantified in likes, followers, and…

  • Writing

    Writing, Photography, And My Life With Amelia

    As I sit here, my fingers poised over the keyboard, I can’t help but feel a wave of exhilaration mixed with a hint of disbelief. Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in my life, one that is entirely dedicated to my deepest passions: writing, photography, and my beautiful relationship with Amelia. For years, I found myself juggling the demands of a conventional career with my innate desire to create. My days were filled with tasks and responsibilities that, while vitally important, didn’t ignite the spark within me. Each evening, as I sat down to write or sifted through photos from my latest adventure, I felt a surge of…

  • Writing

    The Bittersweet Feelings Of Letting Go

    As I stand at the threshold of the house where I grew up, a flood of emotions washes over me. This quaint, familiar space, with its creaky wooden floors and sun-dappled windows, has been more than just a building; it’s been a silent witness to my life’s journey. From the echoes of laughter that danced in the hallways to the silent tears shed in the quiet of my room, every corner of this house is steeped in memories. Selling my childhood home feels like closing a cherished book filled with colorful chapters. There’s a sweet nostalgia in remembering the blissful days of childhood, the warmth of family gatherings, and the…

  • Writing

    2023 Was A Year of Unexpected Expenses And Disappointments

    As I sit here reflecting on the past year, I can’t help but feel a mix of frustration and disbelief. 2023 was supposed to be a year of new beginnings and upgrades. It turned into a series of unfortunate events and costly disappointments. I want to share our story, not for sympathy, but as a cautionary tale about the unpredictability of life, and the importance of perseverance and determination. The Kubota Tractor Debacle Our journey into 2023’s financial abyss began with our Kubota tractor. We live on a small farm, and that tractor was supposed to be the backbone of our daily operations. Purchased brand new, we had high hopes…

  • Writing

    The Dangers Of Relying Solely On Volunteer Fire Departments

    On December 1, 2023, I received an alarming call from my mom, telling me about a major fire that erupted just down the street from her home. This news immediately sent shivers down my spine. As someone who served over two decades in the paid fire service, I’m acutely aware of the devastating impact fires can have. So, I decided to visit her and see the aftermath for myself. The scene was heartbreaking—a landmark building, burnt out and standing as a stark reminder of the incident. I captured the haunting images of the charred structure, which was yet another tragedy that unfolded so close to my childhood home. This fire,…

  • Writing

    The Dumbing Down Of Political Discourse

    Introduction In 1789, George Washington delivered his inaugural address, a seminal moment in American history. This speech, rich in its language and depth, marked not only the commencement of Washington’s presidency but also symbolized the birth of the United States as a sovereign nation. Over two centuries later, the art of presidential oratory has undeniably evolved, adapting to the changing tides of time and society. As an observer of this evolution, one cannot help but notice a significant shift in the complexity and depth of presidential speeches. This observation leads us to an intriguing inquiry: has there been an intentional dumbing down of political discourse in the United States, especially…

  • Writing

    Reckless Driving By Local Volunteer Ambulance Company

    If volunteers wish to be regarded as unpaid professionals, they must uphold the same standards as their salaried counterparts. To whom it may concern: I write this letter to shed light on a distressing incident I recently experienced on the roads of Vermont. It deeply concerns me not just as an individual, but from my professional perspective as a former career Firefighter and Paramedic Lieutenant. While traveling, I was abruptly forced off the road by a local volunteer ambulance company that seemed to exhibit a blatant disregard for safe driving practices. What was even more alarming was the fact that the ambulance chose to overtake my vehicle on a blind…