One More Voice
I thought about ending this blog. The final post: December, 2018—just over ten years, over 100 posts. Informal reflections on a decade. Since February, 2008 when I first attempted this new form and posted, the volume of blogs around the globe has proliferated to an immeasurable dimension. Today with blogs, podcasts, Facebook posts, LinkedIn, Twitter, photos on Instagram and other platforms and apps I don’t even know or use, everyone is talking about everything. My email box is filled with messages and information and notifications I never asked for, with political points of view I can barely consider, polls and surveys I never fill out…except one where I answer NO whenever it appears: “Should Hillary Clinton run for President?” NO. This answer doesn’t represent a political point of view so much as a measuring of time and tides…and consequences. It is time for others.
And yet rather than ending this blog, I write again. Perhaps a politician can’t help running for office.
What is one more blog post launched into the universe? The freedom to express is one I don’t take for granted when that freedom is shrinking around the globe and can have dire consequences in countries like China, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Mexico, Venezuela. What is one more blog post launched into the universe? Just that, one more voice, a point of view no else exactly has.
Some writers I know have turned to photography. I understand the turn. Below are photos from a few days south, away from snow and ice storms, a brief visit to sun and the promise of spring. Comment, post yourself, confirm someone is receiving. Happy winter’s end or summer’s end, depending in which hemisphere you live.
Lovely photos. I think I may have even in that exact same place. Thanks for sending! Didi
Thank you, Didi. I always love your photos.
It is disconcerting to see the systemic erosion of our Constitution, the full frontal attack on being a voter/ citizen, and the warfare against a free press.. “One voice” becomes many as long as we are able to speak. Once strictures are placed it becomes progressively more difficult. The price of freedom is a “vote.” I am grateful to still live in a free country and honored to vote for the candisate of my choice. Expressing a considered opinion, opposed to spouting a rant, should always be welcome. An opportunity to make our county stronger and stand against tyranny is becomming especially important. There should allways be “one more voice”, no matter how small.
Thank you for sharing your voice here!
I am receiving and enjoying. Thanks for these photos, as well as the information and opinions that you have posted in the past. I hope you will continue. I know it’s a lot of work, but you have a singular perspective that is important to share.
David N. Smith
Thank you, David!
I’m glad to hear that you are continuing your blog post. You have so many interesting and significant experiences. It makes sense to share them. You express yourself well and your point of view is important. Thanks for the beautiful photos.
Kathy
Thanks, Kathy. I appreciate your responding.
I very much agree! Your positive voice is needed, and you cannot be discouraged—there are many wonderful people in the world and you are one of them! The young are counting on us, and we must be the Silent Generation no longer. Keep writing!
Thank you, Janice, a longtime, though distant friend and fine editor.
Yes, I agree — please keep it up!
I hope your voice continues to be heard. You have many listeners . Even one may be enough in a world where not all can speak. Thank you for reminding us of that.
And you too, a voice to be heard.
Thank you, All!
So glad to hear that your posts will continue! Your thoughts are always filled with compassion, empathy and insight, and are a pleasure to read!! The photos are a beautiful addition!!
Thank you, Deena!
Don’t stop!
I also get texts now “can we count on you for Bernie?”
“No!” I replied. It’s time for a woman in the WH, how about Kamala?
Love the palms and sunset and the gannet!
Good to hear from you, Gail. And maybe in our lifetime….
Please don’t stop. I appreciate your voice!
J
Thank you, Jane.
I’ve always appreciated your posts, love these photos and wish you all the best. Glad you’ll be continuing. Miss you a lot, Joanne.
Richard
Also miss the good conversations and strategies on the globe and work together in PEN. Come visit Washington.
Joanne,
I look forward to your comments and enjoy hearing from your travels.
These beautiful photos passed on a moment of serenity.
Thank you, Pati!
Normally I try to avoid any blog, electronic, or print material that isn’t essential. All of it takes too much time away from other interests. But I never miss one of yours and read them with great interest. Your causes in behalf of literature, independent rights, free press are necessary and valuable. I also enjoy your more poetic reflections from time to time.
Hoping that you continue sharing with those of us who appreciate your time and efforts!
Thank you, Linda! I appreciate your reading and response.
Awesome pictures. I almost feel warm, can hear the waves, and spell all the scents of the water and the beach.
Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for reading & writing back.
Keep it up, Joanne! I always learn something of value from your lovely posts. Please don’t stop sharing. Thanks!
Thanks, Ronny!🦋
Thanks for the photos Joanne
they make me dream and take me away from the difficult times we are all experiencing, for some different reasons…
I agree with you, politicians should step back, at certain points and leave room to younger but experienced new politicians.
I’ll be in NYC in the first half of june. We might meet in Manila.
all the best
chiara
Thank you, Chiara. I look forward to our paths crossing in one place or another soon.
Thanks Joanne. Nature nourishes. Keep writing your great blogs
Thanks, Malcolm!