Spring

   March 1st really is the first day of spring, for I have noticed everyone awakening with a new fervor and purpose. We are all suddenly focused on the beautiful days ahead, which months ago seemed so far away. 
   I have noticed the cheerfulness and carefree notions that come as the spring days approach. I know I already have plans for the spring and summer, and I hurriedly prepare to be ready.
   I truly wish all a wonderful spring and summer - be safe and enjoy...

   MS 

The New Year

    As we have lived our lives this year, day by day, hour by hour, a new year has once again crept up on us. Many struggled through the long days, while others endured the time with ease. Children were born, the elderly died; and many died before their time. There were breakthroughs in science and technology, ideas became reality. The list of news-worthy items, public and private, is much too extensive to list here - anything and everything happened this year. So what will the shining new year bring to our curious minds?

   The change we feel in the air is for the time being is a mystery. It is a time of dreams and aspirations as we move forward into a new beginning. We can only speculate what will happen next, and if it will affect our personal lives. The new year will be a challenge, just as every new day is a challenge, and we will rise up to face it with all the strength and courage we can muster.

   One thing is certain: the new year can be what we make it, depending on the choices and decisions we make. Most people have a positive outlook toward the new year, as the old year has lost its luster and promise. It offers hope that we will be successful in all our endeavors. 

   So we celebrate New Year's Eve, saying goodbye to the old and welcoming in the new. I dare say that I, too, have dreams and ideas I hope to see come to fruition. With eight hours left until midnight, I shall close this blog and wait for the future.

   

   

War of Words

   The war of words continues as I am revising and editing several new projects, anxious to share them with the world. One cannot deny those feelings of satisfaction and accomplishment after completing yet another piece of work. These feelings drive you onward to new horizons.
   I see the same satisfaction in friends as they, too, push forward and create their own works of art. That is exactly what it is, a work of art to be cherished and shared forever. To follow through and complete a work of art is a wonderful thing, and I applaud those who reach that point, typing that final word with a sigh and a smile.
   I always consider what it will be like in years to come when I am gone and new generations are reading my works. After all, this is my way of leaving my mark on the world. 
   My heart almost bursts to see someone excited over one of my creations, for it is for the reader that I create and hopefully make a mark in their world. It is with great joy to have brought characters to life, each reader conceiving them in their own way, their own imagination.
   Imagination is, of course, a key element from writer to reader. It is perhaps the strongest element, one that injects life into all aspects of the story. The imagination can do wonderful things - create fantastic landscapes, lively characters, sadness and happiness. In the end, one walks away carrying with them the memories of a particular experience.
   Regardless of the art, from photographers to sculptures, painters to musicians, all are appreciated as they lend beauty to our world. I lend my own art, and will continue to do so for as long as I am able. In the meantime, the war of words continues...

Michael Shorde

It's About Time

Well, it has been a while since I last visited my blog, so I thought I had better get on the ball. I took an extended vacation and I am now in the middle of some new projects. You'll be the first to know. 
I sincerely hope everyone is doing great, feeling happy. I am trying to feel happy, but autumn has set in and the days are rapidly cooling off. The next thing you know we'll have snow.
I don't even like to say the word, but what must be will be. I have contributed several stories to a new anthology due out in 2013. A novel may be in the making, as well.

Well, I just wanted to say hello to all my friends, and let you know what I am up to. I am still here, and hopefully so for a good long time. Take care

Michael Shorde

So you may think writing is an easy game. You finish that first draft which is wonderful, indeed. I shall repeat myself again - there is nothing more satisfying than see your work in print. You are successful.
It isn't a matter of being published, or acquiring fame and fortune. You have completed something that others only talk about. "Oh, I'm going to write this book, and it will make me a wealthy man!" Because it is not handed to them on a silver platter, they give up instead of facing the reality.
I never expected this, which is why I have come as far as I have. I merely set goals, and pursued them one by one.
I don't push my characters, I let them live their own lives, make their own decisions - and in this world of reality, do we oftentimes disagree with others intent on doing?
I suppose what I am trying to say is set goals and let the rest run its course. You would be surprised. Of course, my writer friends aren't too surprised, for they are there time and time again - I respect them, no matter the genre.
I propose your first line of action is seeing your words in print - along with the mistakes. However, those with an open hearts and minds will look beyond any mistakes, and look for the story.
The story is the key to unlock the war of words.
Perhaps I have rambled too much.
Please, check out this short blob, for you may be enlightened. Only from simple words from from a guy like me.
I could move on, but I would probably bore you...
MS

Michael Shorde's Simple Observation

I just recently published a new book, and over the course of things it reminded me of just how difficult it can be. In fact, I believe this is why new writers give up so early in the game. I came close to that; I merely wanted to get something published, no matter how meaningless simply to leave my mark on the world. I remember my wife's words:
Why don't you write a book, honey. I know you can...
So I ended up writing my first novel, and before the pages had cooled, I was already starting another book. This one was much more difficult, as I had tons of research. I couldn't start right from the beginning, it had to be bits and pieces - I can them fragments and they inevitably end up somewhere in the book.
I am merely reflecting on my achievements, and looking forward to more of the same. You can accomplish anything if you set your heart and mind to it. The satisfaction is wonderful - to know that you have created something from your own two hands.
All this is why I respect other writers. They stick to it, no matter the genre, and go for the gold. For this, I applaud you. Know that someone is paying attention, and your efforts are not in vain. I am taking a break from my own writing (only for a few minutes), and thought I would share this thought with you on this day of remembrance. Have a great day and stay safe.
MS