Writers
This carefully maintained dock holds a growing collection of the written word. Here, you’ll find thought provoking articles, unique stories, private letters, personal notes, deep musings, and occasionally, even poetry. Much of the content here has never been shared publicly. For whatever reason, some pieces were tucked away by the writer for years. Now, it’s all available for you.
How Was Your Day?
I hobbled into my physical therapy appointment this afternoon feeling 90. I realized, as I sat there wondering why on earth I felt so terrible, I hadn’t taken so much as a sip of water all day — nor had I taken the pain pill I loathe. (and take as rarely as possible!)
Your Life
This morning I started thinking about you. Mainly, I was thinking about what you’re going through right now. Whoever you are. I don’t know you. I don’t know anything about you. But in a way we know each other because you and I aren’t that different.
My Valentine
We were newlyweds, living in a grungy apartment. Each morning, I would wake before her. I would pass my morning hours writing poetry on a yellow legal pad, sipping coffee. Mostly, I’d write the kinds of god-awful things you’d expect newlyweds to write. I’m talking painfully corny stuff. I’d leave these poems on slips of paper scattered throughout our apartment for her to find.
Valentine #1: When Did I Start to Love You?
One Valentine’s Day in the 70s, I found myself at an arena parking garage in our tour bus without a Valentine for Bill or any way to get one. The children were little then, so I had their stash of art supplies—construction paper, scissors, glue, markers—in the bus. I decided to make a Valentine and write him my heart.
Tone in Writing: A Simple Guide for Authors
If you’re confused about the difference between “voice” and “tone” in writing, you aren’t alone. Many writers conflate the two. Whether you’re writing a novel, a blog post, an article, a poem, or a term paper, it’s important to know the difference so you can communicate with readers in a way that resonates.
Georgia Christmas
Journey with Sharon, a North Georgia waitress, as she shares her transformation from a giftless, treeless childhood to creating unforgettable Christmases. Over a meal, she reveals her family’s struggles, her mother’s passing, and how she and her brother Sweets crafted a heartfelt Christmas with handmade gifts and twenty dollars. This touching story of resilience and the true spirit of Christmas is a testament to the power of family and creativity in the face of adversity.”
The Day Before The Night Before Christmas
In this celestial narrative, archangels Michael and Gabriel plan a grand event for Jesus’ birth, only to learn from God that the celebration is not for the elite, but for all. As they adjust to simplicity over grandeur, the story unfolds the essence of the first Christmas – a tale of humility, inclusivity, and a miraculous night in Bethlehem.
Mabel the Christmas Dog
Christmas was a little over a week away, but Mabel wasn’t going to make it to the end of the week. It’s never a good time to lose your pet, but during the holiday season, it’s gut-wrenchingly horrible. Especially when it’s the pet who helped raise your children. Mabel slept beneath my boy’s baby beds, listened while they learned to read, and ran along beside them through the swamps and gullies of Mobile Bay on wild adventures.
Two Thanksgiving Day Gentlemen
Discover the intriguing tale of ‘Two Thanksgiving Day Gentlemen’ by O. Henry, a captivating story of tradition and unexpected turns. Join Pete and the Old Gentleman in their unique annual ritual, where traditions collide with unforeseen circumstances, leading to a twist that will leave readers pondering. Delve into this delightful narrative on The Writers Dock and uncover the surprises that await in this classic O. Henry masterpiece.
The Five Things for Which To Be Thankful…That We Most Often Overlook
In the rush of daily life, with its mounting pressures and incessant distractions, it is alarmingly easy to forget to pause and reflect on the things for which we should be most thankful. These aren’t necessarily the obvious things like family, health, or shelter, but...
To All The Poets I Have Known
I am a debtor. My life as a writer/lyricist has been infused with the generous gifts of others—some I’ve known intimately, some I’ve walked with for a time, some I’ve never met. But I own them a debt I keep trying to repay for giving me a...
Thanks
Thank you for holding the door for an old woman at Cracker Barrel. You must’ve been fourteen, you were with friends. You were laughing and carrying on when you saw the old woman, pushing a walker. You jogged ahead. You beat her to the door. You held it open. She thanked you. You yes-ma’amed her. And you made my day, kid. My whole day.