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Biographical Essay29 total reviews
Comment from mermaids
This is wonderful memoire writing, you held my interest which is rare for prose. I loved the part about working at PetSmart and meeting the young lesbian. Your life is interesting and I encourage you to continue to write. I also like it when people do not abide by what society sees as success.
reply by the author on 06-Feb-2016
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This is wonderful memoire writing, you held my interest which is rare for prose. I loved the part about working at PetSmart and meeting the young lesbian. Your life is interesting and I encourage you to continue to write. I also like it when people do not abide by what society sees as success.
Comment Written 06-Feb-2016
reply by the author on 06-Feb-2016
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What a wonderful and encouraging review. I'm so pleased you enjoyed this. I will continue to write. Thanks so much. mikey
Comment from l.raven
Michael, sweet boy...for some...and I know there are many...but if I am getting this right...people like you and I don't give up when trying to help...it makes us feel good to know we did something that has meaning...like Christmas...we like gifts...but would rather see mom open her gift and cry from being happy at what you gave her...that was the biggest gift...and even when you would like the choke the people you are helping at times...you know they need you...and there is a big satisfaction in knowing you make their lives better... I know that for a fact...you always figure it is just a small amount of time...you will still have time to live...your family has their lives...and you have yours...give them the time you they need...but you need time too...you don't have to abandon them to take one step away...your still there...thank you for sharing you life with us...if I told you mine...you would put yourself out of your misery...LOL...I think that is why we help others....we want them to have good in their lives...even if that is all we can give them...well written you...luff Linda xxoo love
reply by the author on 06-Feb-2016
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Michael, sweet boy...for some...and I know there are many...but if I am getting this right...people like you and I don't give up when trying to help...it makes us feel good to know we did something that has meaning...like Christmas...we like gifts...but would rather see mom open her gift and cry from being happy at what you gave her...that was the biggest gift...and even when you would like the choke the people you are helping at times...you know they need you...and there is a big satisfaction in knowing you make their lives better... I know that for a fact...you always figure it is just a small amount of time...you will still have time to live...your family has their lives...and you have yours...give them the time you they need...but you need time too...you don't have to abandon them to take one step away...your still there...thank you for sharing you life with us...if I told you mine...you would put yourself out of your misery...LOL...I think that is why we help others....we want them to have good in their lives...even if that is all we can give them...well written you...luff Linda xxoo love
Comment Written 05-Feb-2016
reply by the author on 06-Feb-2016
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I wrote two lengthy responses that the site swallowed up. I appreciate all your wonderful insights. Thank you so much. mikey
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you are so welcome always Michael...luff xxoo
Comment from Linda Engel
Well , this is a lot of useful information. You have had a most interesting life and that makes for good writing. Childhood was a bitch and so was mine. Glad to see it didn't beat you down. My life, I let it roll off my back and venture on. Go, Mikey!!!!
I think you are terrific.
P. S. I don't sleep much either.
reply by the author on 06-Feb-2016
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Well , this is a lot of useful information. You have had a most interesting life and that makes for good writing. Childhood was a bitch and so was mine. Glad to see it didn't beat you down. My life, I let it roll off my back and venture on. Go, Mikey!!!!
I think you are terrific.
P. S. I don't sleep much either.
Comment Written 05-Feb-2016
reply by the author on 06-Feb-2016
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You're terrific too. Site eating responses. Thanks a million. mikey
Comment from MaBaker
Hi Michaelcahill. How come some of us have had whacked out lives? Does this make us more interesting or less? I had a ripper of a childhood, crazy mother as well. Thank God there was only one of me. Regards Mabaker
reply by the author on 06-Feb-2016
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Hi Michaelcahill. How come some of us have had whacked out lives? Does this make us more interesting or less? I had a ripper of a childhood, crazy mother as well. Thank God there was only one of me. Regards Mabaker
Comment Written 05-Feb-2016
reply by the author on 06-Feb-2016
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Sites eating responses. We are on the same page. YES!!!! mikey
Comment from seaglass
This is an interesting essay combining a short bio and concluded with self introspection. I had a bumpy childhood as well and I have no doubt that the experiences way-laid my progression to my dreams, but I don't believe in happy childhoods. I think they were made up in the 50's with tv shows, ( an the political vision of the times) as propaganda to shape American families ( especially white) into a Father-Knows-Best model.
Most of the time Father didn't know best, being human, and Mother wasn't a wonderful cook and housekeeper that tucked her children to bed with a prayer and a story.
Everyone felt shortchanged, but too embarrassed to admit their families feel short. I agree, most of the time, it doesn't matter what happened to you as much as it does matter what you do with those experiences to grow, become tolerant of others, and become a stronger self.
The book, "The Child Called It" is an inspirational example of that. I never had an eye on becoming very wealthy. It didn't mean I was lazy or expected a handout. I tried being in sales and couldn't stand the idea my mentors pushed that took advantaged of people...to me it was down-right dishonest.
I ended up working in fields that didn't pay much but helped others a lot. I think at this age one should ask?" Am I happy now? (yes, as much as it is possible to be) Do I feel guild about my choices? (no, some were dumb, but made with good intentions i.e. my first marriage) Have I be destructive to others or the planet in my life? (No)
For me that's success...not wealth...fame...or notoriety.
Your question: "What in hell am I supposed to do?" Just answer the questions, you are as much a success as anyone else.
reply by the author on 06-Feb-2016
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This is an interesting essay combining a short bio and concluded with self introspection. I had a bumpy childhood as well and I have no doubt that the experiences way-laid my progression to my dreams, but I don't believe in happy childhoods. I think they were made up in the 50's with tv shows, ( an the political vision of the times) as propaganda to shape American families ( especially white) into a Father-Knows-Best model.
Most of the time Father didn't know best, being human, and Mother wasn't a wonderful cook and housekeeper that tucked her children to bed with a prayer and a story.
Everyone felt shortchanged, but too embarrassed to admit their families feel short. I agree, most of the time, it doesn't matter what happened to you as much as it does matter what you do with those experiences to grow, become tolerant of others, and become a stronger self.
The book, "The Child Called It" is an inspirational example of that. I never had an eye on becoming very wealthy. It didn't mean I was lazy or expected a handout. I tried being in sales and couldn't stand the idea my mentors pushed that took advantaged of people...to me it was down-right dishonest.
I ended up working in fields that didn't pay much but helped others a lot. I think at this age one should ask?" Am I happy now? (yes, as much as it is possible to be) Do I feel guild about my choices? (no, some were dumb, but made with good intentions i.e. my first marriage) Have I be destructive to others or the planet in my life? (No)
For me that's success...not wealth...fame...or notoriety.
Your question: "What in hell am I supposed to do?" Just answer the questions, you are as much a success as anyone else.
Comment Written 05-Feb-2016
reply by the author on 06-Feb-2016
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I've read this several times with great interest and responded twice. The sight keeps swallowing up my responses. Lots of good advice and insights which I will take to heart. Thanks so much. mikey
Comment from Rosalyne
Hi, Mikey.
You've shared a well-written biography that isn't easy to do. Nobody wants to look in the mirror and see the true reflection of who we are. It takes courage to see our qualities and also our faults. From your words, I see a man who cares for others, is compassionate and warm. This is a fine quality to have and one to be proud. So what if you haven't made millions and achieved what standards dictate. You've had a colourful life, one that you've experienced much and have insights that have helped others. That's the reflection I see from your words.
Bye
Rosalyne :)
reply by the author on 06-Feb-2016
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Hi, Mikey.
You've shared a well-written biography that isn't easy to do. Nobody wants to look in the mirror and see the true reflection of who we are. It takes courage to see our qualities and also our faults. From your words, I see a man who cares for others, is compassionate and warm. This is a fine quality to have and one to be proud. So what if you haven't made millions and achieved what standards dictate. You've had a colourful life, one that you've experienced much and have insights that have helped others. That's the reflection I see from your words.
Bye
Rosalyne :)
Comment Written 05-Feb-2016
reply by the author on 06-Feb-2016
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Thanks so much, Rosalyne. I appreciate the insights and advice. The site keeps eating my responses. Third try. So bried. Truly, thanks a million. mikey
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I've had similar problems with the site. I had done an entire page of reviews only to be wiped out. So frustrating... :)
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It is. You wrote such a lovely review. I feel like a heel. :)) I hope they fix this. Take care. mikey
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Thanks. I meant every word. You have a kindness in you that reaches out to others! :)
Comment from Scarbrems
Well, by now a million people will have told you it is 'magnet', not 'magnat', and there's a 'your' in there that shoould be a 'you're', but this isn't a post to pick at like that. You write of your life in a light, breezy way that somewhat belies the emotions going on.
You know something? And this is genuine, absolute truth. One of my best friends in the world ever, is one of those guys who used to talk (and still does, probably, although I don't speak to him so often since I moved) about how he did everything for everybody, and no-one did anything for him. We developed a friendship (just friends, I'm married, this mate is kind of like a brother), and I observed how much he shielded himself from me, by telling me he was disassociative, didn't need friends, didn't care if I was there or not.
As the friendship grew, no matter what I offered him in terms of support, it was still, 'nobody does anything for ME!' I just accepted that he was the kind of guy who wouldn't notice stuff if it fell on him.
He did help me out a lot with a lot of things. But he made reciprocating that hard work. I didn't ask him for his help, but he'd give it to me, and then chuck it back in my face, later, when he was in a foul mood (he's got a condition similar to bipolar).
He's still my best mate, and after I moved across the sea, for the first time he told me by email that he thought a lot of our friendship. My husband and I will pay him a visit when we go to the UK in a few weeks. I've made him sound a bit of a knob, but he's clever, and very big hearted. In fact, just like you appear to be, from this and other things I've read from you.
But his biggest failing was in not recognising that he built his self-worth up by acting like Sir Galahad to people wether they wanted it or not, then bitching about it to somebody who put up with a lot of crap just to try to be the one who gave somethig back. Because he was worth it.
I guess the point of this long, rambling story, is: look around you. Do you give people a chance to be there for you as you are for others? My friend played the martyr. Do you think you might do this, too? I see touches of it, here.
My friend broke my heart on many occasions, because he (unitentionally) occasionally made my friendship feel valueless. He was self-contained, didn't need me, didn't need anyone, including his slightly long-suffering wife. That's more wearing than you might think, in a friend. It puts you on the constant back foot, shunted in to the role of less-capable dependant, whether you asked for it, or not.
In order to receive, you have to let people give. I've known morethan one person who says similar things to what you say here, and to a man, they've always cast themselves as knights in shining armour, and it isn't entirely altruistic.
If this sounds like a cheeky, potted analysis, it isn't meant to be. How do I know, this is ONE post. I don't know you. It's just...you reminded me so much of the things my old friend has said about the other people in his life. He's an open admitter of having a big ego as well, by the way.
Something to think about anyway. And tell me off for. I'll probably deserve it. You'd think by now, I'd know what usually happens when people like me voice their thoughts to the self-aware, wouldn't you?
reply by the author on 06-Feb-2016
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Well, by now a million people will have told you it is 'magnet', not 'magnat', and there's a 'your' in there that shoould be a 'you're', but this isn't a post to pick at like that. You write of your life in a light, breezy way that somewhat belies the emotions going on.
You know something? And this is genuine, absolute truth. One of my best friends in the world ever, is one of those guys who used to talk (and still does, probably, although I don't speak to him so often since I moved) about how he did everything for everybody, and no-one did anything for him. We developed a friendship (just friends, I'm married, this mate is kind of like a brother), and I observed how much he shielded himself from me, by telling me he was disassociative, didn't need friends, didn't care if I was there or not.
As the friendship grew, no matter what I offered him in terms of support, it was still, 'nobody does anything for ME!' I just accepted that he was the kind of guy who wouldn't notice stuff if it fell on him.
He did help me out a lot with a lot of things. But he made reciprocating that hard work. I didn't ask him for his help, but he'd give it to me, and then chuck it back in my face, later, when he was in a foul mood (he's got a condition similar to bipolar).
He's still my best mate, and after I moved across the sea, for the first time he told me by email that he thought a lot of our friendship. My husband and I will pay him a visit when we go to the UK in a few weeks. I've made him sound a bit of a knob, but he's clever, and very big hearted. In fact, just like you appear to be, from this and other things I've read from you.
But his biggest failing was in not recognising that he built his self-worth up by acting like Sir Galahad to people wether they wanted it or not, then bitching about it to somebody who put up with a lot of crap just to try to be the one who gave somethig back. Because he was worth it.
I guess the point of this long, rambling story, is: look around you. Do you give people a chance to be there for you as you are for others? My friend played the martyr. Do you think you might do this, too? I see touches of it, here.
My friend broke my heart on many occasions, because he (unitentionally) occasionally made my friendship feel valueless. He was self-contained, didn't need me, didn't need anyone, including his slightly long-suffering wife. That's more wearing than you might think, in a friend. It puts you on the constant back foot, shunted in to the role of less-capable dependant, whether you asked for it, or not.
In order to receive, you have to let people give. I've known morethan one person who says similar things to what you say here, and to a man, they've always cast themselves as knights in shining armour, and it isn't entirely altruistic.
If this sounds like a cheeky, potted analysis, it isn't meant to be. How do I know, this is ONE post. I don't know you. It's just...you reminded me so much of the things my old friend has said about the other people in his life. He's an open admitter of having a big ego as well, by the way.
Something to think about anyway. And tell me off for. I'll probably deserve it. You'd think by now, I'd know what usually happens when people like me voice their thoughts to the self-aware, wouldn't you?
Comment Written 05-Feb-2016
reply by the author on 06-Feb-2016
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Wow. I'm just thrilled and touched by your wonderful response. I've read it several times and responded twice so far. The site keeps swallowing the responses and losing them. So I'll have to be brief and hope it gets through. Great advice that I hear and take into consideration. It is at least in part true in my case and I am certain of that. So it isn't deaf ears hear. If this is a factor then I should look at it, yes? And as you describe your friend I see some of myself there clearly. Not to the same degree, but to some degree and I'm sure enough to be a great impediment. So, thank your so much you cheeky devil. So very appreciated. mikey
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Really glad you took it that way. Was bothered for ages I'd gone too far with someone I don't know that well.
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It's often the case here that though we don't "know" each other, we're often familiar with one or the other. I kind of know you from your forum postings and some of your writing. So, you are familiar. :)) In any case, some dude posts a rambling piece about himself, he should expect a response, yes? Thanks a million. Much appreciated. mikey
Comment from reconciled
Ya know Mike...I really do believe in God...I have sense I was a lil' kid....and not because of programming of a practiced religious lifestyle. just certain out of environment experience assured me. "do not store up for yourselves treasure here on earth, where moths and vermin destroy and thieves break in and steal, but store up treasure in heaven instead...for where your treasure is where your heart resides"...paraphrased...Mathew. So it always confused me when ah I would hear and see the contrary ya know stepped away from the pulpit, preached in everyday action by those whose day job was to wear signs saying follow me for I follow Him. I believe Mike...that all those sacrifices of self for others, the prioritizing of importance, determines who hears..."I knew you"...or I knew you not" Do you think Paul while caged in Roman dungeons, laughed at and despised to death sentence...knew then that he'd be read everyday forever after his departure and crowned God's lion. Even the man in Jesus doubted for second on that cross..."Father why have you forsaken me"....if this world were devoid of love Mike...it would be hell.
"doubt thou the stars are fire;
doubt that the sun doth move;
doubt truth to be a liar;
but never doubt I love"....William Shakespeare.
reply by the author on 06-Feb-2016
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Ya know Mike...I really do believe in God...I have sense I was a lil' kid....and not because of programming of a practiced religious lifestyle. just certain out of environment experience assured me. "do not store up for yourselves treasure here on earth, where moths and vermin destroy and thieves break in and steal, but store up treasure in heaven instead...for where your treasure is where your heart resides"...paraphrased...Mathew. So it always confused me when ah I would hear and see the contrary ya know stepped away from the pulpit, preached in everyday action by those whose day job was to wear signs saying follow me for I follow Him. I believe Mike...that all those sacrifices of self for others, the prioritizing of importance, determines who hears..."I knew you"...or I knew you not" Do you think Paul while caged in Roman dungeons, laughed at and despised to death sentence...knew then that he'd be read everyday forever after his departure and crowned God's lion. Even the man in Jesus doubted for second on that cross..."Father why have you forsaken me"....if this world were devoid of love Mike...it would be hell.
"doubt thou the stars are fire;
doubt that the sun doth move;
doubt truth to be a liar;
but never doubt I love"....William Shakespeare.
Comment Written 05-Feb-2016
reply by the author on 06-Feb-2016
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Hi there, Michael. I've answered this a couple times already. Each time less and less brilliantly. This site is eating up responses for some reason. We're thinking so much alike as I read this. But I knew that already. :)) A world without love would be hell and it should never be doubted. Agree. mikey
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you're only human Mike...it takes guts to be honest about it...much less to make fun of it. proud of you...love-
Comment from Jacqueline M Franklin
Hi, Mikey
= Not being able to sleep, sucks big-time.
= Having said that, I've come up with some good 'stuff' a two a.m.
= I've also had some fantastic arguments with my muse--testy little devil! LOL
= I believe you've picked yourself up after so much adversity in your life. That's what has made you into the kind and caring fella you are.
= Just the way you pitched in and helped me with 'Carnival Buttheads', shows the kind of awesome character you have.
= Never have been able to reach them, so I called Pay Pal and put a block on them trying to charge me in 6 months, so we'll see how that pans out. I very much appreciate your help with that issue.
= Adversity teaches us so much, but sometimes we don't realize the extent until way later down the line.
= Hell, if we could have the wisdom at twenty-five that we have at forty, fifty-something and older, we'd have it made in a shade.
= This is an excellent write, to put yourself out there, my friend.
= Good luck in the contest!
* Cheers & Blessings *
Keep Smilin'... Jackie <> Jax (*<*)
reply by the author on 06-Feb-2016
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Hi, Mikey
= Not being able to sleep, sucks big-time.
= Having said that, I've come up with some good 'stuff' a two a.m.
= I've also had some fantastic arguments with my muse--testy little devil! LOL
= I believe you've picked yourself up after so much adversity in your life. That's what has made you into the kind and caring fella you are.
= Just the way you pitched in and helped me with 'Carnival Buttheads', shows the kind of awesome character you have.
= Never have been able to reach them, so I called Pay Pal and put a block on them trying to charge me in 6 months, so we'll see how that pans out. I very much appreciate your help with that issue.
= Adversity teaches us so much, but sometimes we don't realize the extent until way later down the line.
= Hell, if we could have the wisdom at twenty-five that we have at forty, fifty-something and older, we'd have it made in a shade.
= This is an excellent write, to put yourself out there, my friend.
= Good luck in the contest!
* Cheers & Blessings *
Keep Smilin'... Jackie <> Jax (*<*)
Comment Written 04-Feb-2016
reply by the author on 06-Feb-2016
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Hi there. I've responded a couple times so far. The first one was very intelligent and sophisticated. Hahaha. The site is cuckoo today. Loved your wonderful insights and comments. I've read them several times and taken them to heart. I want to make sure this goes through. Thanks a million. mikey
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Got it! (*<*)
And, you're most welcome.
Have a great weekend, Mikey.
Comment from damommy
What are you supposed to do? Just be you. We don't have to live up to "society's" expectations. Most of them are hollow and shallow. Who wants to keep up with the Jones'? By the way, who do the Jones' keep up with?
I'm not successful in the way most people think. I don't have a lot of money, certainly no fame. I have my own circle of friends and family who think I'm great, and that's enough for me. In all things that matter, I'm the richest person you'll ever know . . . and the happiest.
Just be you! 8-)
reply by the author on 04-Feb-2016
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What are you supposed to do? Just be you. We don't have to live up to "society's" expectations. Most of them are hollow and shallow. Who wants to keep up with the Jones'? By the way, who do the Jones' keep up with?
I'm not successful in the way most people think. I don't have a lot of money, certainly no fame. I have my own circle of friends and family who think I'm great, and that's enough for me. In all things that matter, I'm the richest person you'll ever know . . . and the happiest.
Just be you! 8-)
Comment Written 04-Feb-2016
reply by the author on 04-Feb-2016
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I think that's the best advice and I'm rather wealthy in my own right going by those terms. :))
It's great to be rich, yes? Thank you so very much. mikey
