Volunteer

 I've ushered here for 8 years now and I really enjoy it. I've seen some great shows and met some nice people. But truthfully, these volunteer ceremonies bring me down. I don't want to compete for an award and I don't receive any awards. But I leave the ceremonies feeling insignificant. I know this is a reflection on my. But that's my truth.

What to Bomb

 I get why we shouldn't bomb murals. But I also think we shouldn't bomb condos. Am I getting too soft in my old age?

Barnaget Bay- NJ

 

 It was early November on this beautiful day as we paddled through Barnaget Bay, in NJ.  The day was warm. The bay was void of all boats and wave runners. It was just ours. I was with my friend, Tilman. He told me that he is going to call up this day in his memory in January when he is complaining about the cold and darkness.

Earning A Green Card

 

I support giving undocumented immigrants a path to earn a green card because it's about fairness, compassion, and common sense. Many of these individuals have lived here for years, working hard, paying taxes, and contributing to our communities. They're our neighbors, coworkers, and friends. Offering a way to earn legal status through work, background checks, and civic commitment strengthens our economy, keeps families together, and aligns with the values this country was built on: opportunity, justice, and second chances.

My Sari

 My Sari

Madras, India

Spring 1994

This was the only day I wore this sari. Four years later, my high school was putting on a musical production of The King and I and I donated my sari to the costume department.  They made a few beautiful pillows for the king and the local press wrote a great stroy that I purchased this sari in Thailnad. Poeple loved the story.

It's About Humanity

 I support giving undocumented immigrants a chance to earn a green card because behind every undocumented status is a human story. It's a mother working two jobs to give her kids a better life, a young person who grew up here and only knows this country as home, a family living in fear despite doing everything right. These are people with dreams, dignity, and deep love for this country. Giving them a path to stay and belong isn’t just policy; it’s humanity. It’s about living up to the promise of America: that hope and hard work should be met with opportunity, not punishment.

Salmon Fishing

Salmon Fishing

Somewhere Along the Western Coast of Canada

Summer 2004

I had never fished before so I was so damn excited when I caught this monster salmon.  My captain said he would clean the fish for me and he took a wooden mallet and smashed the fish head. Immediately, there was blood everywhere. I seemed to miss the biology lesson that mentioned that fish had a lot of blood.  Then I noticed that the hook was caught right in the eye socket.  That was gross.  The fish squirmed and made an effort to get away from the captain who smashed the fish head again. The fish squirmed again and I panicked.  The captain tired to grab the fish again but the fish squimmmed yet again and this time, he leaped over the side of the boat. He was gone. I was devastated. This fish suffered for nothing. My captian tried to console me by telling me that this fish would be eaten before he ever hit the bottom. That fact did not consle me.

Student Commnet #72

 A private FB message from a student

Dr Kelly, thank you for sharing that article from the Canadian journalist. Spot on! I’m a moderate Republican-note I did not say Trumpian. I believe our political system at the national level needs a good Noah’s Ark cleansing. I pray for the county and even speak with my therapist about the political climate. My faith in God, The Blessed Mother, the Saints and the Pope - I consider him the anti-Trump is what gives me hope. I told my dad the other day that hopefully the adults in the political room stand up and initiate the 25th amendment. Sooner rather than later.

I pray God has mercy on his soul because I believe the will be seated next to Stalin and Hitler in a place where there is no A/C. I did not vote cheeto at the last election and never have liked him. I look forward to voting straight Democrat at the next election. I hope you are well and thanks again

Jim

I also ask for your prayers and positive energy. I’m writing a transformative memoir that helps people battling depression—especially after loss—find faith-based, practical guidance so they can reclaim joy and rediscover purpose. I am using my two bouts with Major Depressive Disorder and the effects of losing Bob in a very raw and open manner. I don’t want anyone to ever have to go through what family and friends of Bob did.

Jim

Thank you in advance for your support!

Sun 4:22 PM

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Best wishes to you Jim as you bare your soul and pain to help others.

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