As we have all grown in age and wisdom, I find that there are those who enjoy life or at least appear to and those that imprison themselves with the many responsibilities of it.  Myself, possibly being caught in the latter group, have attempted to free myself from life’s grip through my words, mostly written although sometimes spoken.

In All Our Years was inspired by a mentor of mine I worked along side him in the digital industry.  His name was Paul Clark.  He smiled a lot, was loud at times, but soft in heart and soul.  He would engage all of us to do our best, advise when advice was needed, and be there when we would fall.  Above all, he would witness all of us and in the surroundings he helped build, would be there waiting, working, smiling and enjoying life as it was intended.

He was my mentor.  The title of this collection is dedicated to Paul and those like him, who freely give of them themselves through out their lives, watching and helping with the knowledge they have to better the world for everyone.  How fortunate we all are when we find such a soul.

The poem In All Our Years was written for and read to him at going away luncheon the day he was let go from our corporation.  Afterward and in short order, he proceeded to recite a soliloquy in all its glory, the story of which was a manifesto to both the wrong and the right in what had transpired, but in the end, he smiled, was content and taught us that life is grand and no matter what comes your way, worth every breath.

I welcome all communications, when you are moved to do so.

In All Our Years