When Did Fat Become An Insult [Ashley Austrew]

INTRODUCTION by Joseph Shanklin I spend a lot of time [daily] working my own self inventory processes. I choose to make the conscious decision to identify my personal shortcomings. Furthermore, I make the choice to make improvements towards those shortcomings. Please allow me to demonstrate my priorities... 1] Sobriety 2] Self-improvement I see it like … Continue reading When Did Fat Become An Insult [Ashley Austrew]

Growing Old Together

I was inspired to write this piece after reading something another writer posted this morning. She is very talented and inspiring. I've been married and divorced twice. Lasting nearly 12 years, the ending of my second marriage broke my heart... completely. I'd planned on growing old with my second wife. Unfortunately...her long term plans didn't … Continue reading Growing Old Together

Damages [Spring 2019]

DAMAGES Avoiding pain is natural. In fact, that's why it's there. Pain is a signal to the brain letting us know that something is wrong. Through our efforts to avoid the uncomfortable we protect ourselves, our hearts, and sometimes our lives. It's in this way that most people understand and cope with pain. Whether healthy … Continue reading Damages [Spring 2019]

Day 1, Thought 1

Day 1, Thought 1 Sometimes I run my left thumb along my left ring finger, just to check to see if it's still there. Of course, my wedding ring hasn't been there for several years. Nearly five years past, not long before I was forced from my home of over ten years, the ring was … Continue reading Day 1, Thought 1