Inspirational Stories Of Life

A True Story -- by Ronda Rich

Mary Noble and I slid into the ancient red leather and steel booth of a diner in Birmingham and placed our breakfast order.
As we poured cream into steaming black coffee, we heard the shrilling ring of the telephone at the cash register.
"Diner," answered the aging man with silver hair and loose skin that hung in folds around his neck.
He answered briskly but quicker than you could say "eggs over easy," his voice melted like marshmallows dropped into hot chocolate. "Oh, hey honey."
That's what caught our attention. We hushed, raised our eyebrows and leaned closer to eavesdrop better.
"Where are you?" He waited. "You didn't forget your camera, did you?" Another pause. "Be sure to put it in the basket at airport security. Don't walk through the detector with it. Then, don't forget it. You've got your money, right?" Another pause. "OK, sweetheart. Call me first thing so I'll know you're all right."
He smiled. "I love you. Be careful. Bye, sweetheart."
Really, I don't know how we knew, but somehow we reckoned it was his daughter. Women's intuition, I guess. Though, he did seem too old to have a young daughter that he would be talking to like that. He hung up the phone. We smiled sentimentally like women will do because conversations like that touch our hearts.
"Isn't that sweet?" I asked.
Mary Noble nodded. She turned around, craning her neck to look at the man who was returning to the morning newspaper in the first booth. Then, she sold us out.
"That must have been your daughter. It was so sweet."
He chuckled slightly and blushed. "Yeah, that was my girl."
"It's wonderful to hear a father talk like that," I remarked.
He put the newspaper down. "She's 50 years old." Before that comment could stun us, he continued. "She's got MS (multiple sclerosis). It hasn't progressed much in the past five years. She's going to Washington, D.C." He looked out the large plate glass window, studying the morning sunlight that dappled the trees and cars parked along the street. He waited a long moment before speaking again.
"I love that girl so. She's her mama made over." He shook his head slowly.
That scene hangs with me. In a little Alabama diner on a quiet, tree-lined street, we discovered a father unashamed to say "I love you" to a daughter who was half a century old. And, not embarrassed to say it loud enough for the eager ears of strangers.
Funny, the things that will warm your heart when you tuck your manners away long enough to eavesdrop.
Copyright, 2006, Ronda Rich
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Ronda Rich is the best-selling author of “What Southern Women Know (That Every Woman Should)” and “My Life In The Pits,” as well as authoring "What Southern Women Know About Flirting" and "The Town That Came A-Courtin'." She lives in Gainesville, Georgia. Visit Ronda's web site at www.whatsouthernwomenknow.com.

7 Types of People You Should Shun

As humanly as possible, we strive to enjoy and appreciate life from a perspective together with people that acknowledge our distinctions as an individual destined for a greater purpose. The hunger for happiness is an innate desire that no flora and fauna could ever understand nor grasp the meaning behind it. In fact, this euphoria is even amplified when we are surrounded with (interesting) Homo sapiens from all walks of life. Simply said, establishing a relationship (i.e. affair, friendship, etc.) with other people is as normal as eating three times a day. We are humans, and we correlate – the focal part where one depends or affects on another. You definitely can’t be a lone ranger for your entire fucking life. Dude, we all need to bond with other humans. This is what makes us different from other living things such as cacti and horses.

However, the possibility of a person to build a connection or rapport with another person is as the same as the possibility that he/she can completely abolish a well-founded relationship. Imagine: As we are continuously blinded by what we see (for it’s a nature for humans to be visual), we tend to forget how to differentiate what’s right from wrong. Trust me, I heard plethora of stories about friendships gone wrong because of overfamiliarity, disrespect, betrayal and things of such nature. And surprisingly, these are all due to selfishness and/or greed (of course, there are other reasons, but these terms stand out). And what I’m saying is not only about friendship; this goes the same with having a romantic or fuck-purpose relationship. And later will you realize that there’s something wrong; that this is entirely because of how fucking dumb you are to be influenced with people that are completely fucking dumb as well.

The Paradox of Life

As I welcomed the morning dew after a very tiring battle at work, I realized that, in one way or another, beneath every soul living on this planet, is the inevitable paradox we have to live with. Sadly, my two cents, we can't alter its existence.

"You are doomed to make choices. This is life’s greatest paradox."

—Wayne Dyer 

I hate it when others call me fat, but I love the luxury of stuffing food in my stomach. I hate it when my mom gives me plethora of errands, but, from time to time, I beg money from her. I hate it when I used to get low grades at school, but I love to waste my night partying with sober people. I hate it when my knowledgeable professors scold me for not coming early, but I love waking up late. I hate it when my dog barks so fucking loud that I want to slaughter him, but l love the fact that he saved my ass just last week. I hate it when my articles turn out to be plain futile, but I love sloppy writing. I hate it when, in just a couple of days, I’m totally broke after receiving my salary, but I love spending my money recklessly. 

Zamboanga Conflict: Why the MNLF Did What They Did

I understand that most of the articles here have rather light topics but please allow me to digress for this one because after all, this site has the word ‘Random’ in it.

                                                                                                                                                                                             Solarnews.ph

The Church and I

Yesterday, my wife and I, together with our fluffy boy, Brielle, went to our local parish church. We had to set a date for our son’s christening, which we agreed to schedule on the 15th of this month. Although I’m not comfortable going to a Catholic Church, not because I hail Satan and his minions or I’m a self-proclaimed agnostic, I had to stick with the plan and play the father part. So, yeah, we went straight to the office, arranged the required papers, and waited for our turn to be interviewed by the parish priest (which took almost 2 hours before we finally got our turn). The atmosphere inside made me felt eerie and uneasy. Not because of the religious statues, where devotees worship and pray to, that were present, but nostalgia suddenly came into my inner senses. Later, I found out that I was in deep reverie – my mind was summoning pictures of what my life used to be. Hence, to pacify the situation, I chose to break the limbo with a stick of cigarette.

The Tale of the Caveman: Fastfood Chronicles

So after a wholenight’s shift and my body clock still adjusting, (It’s been a hard night’s day and I've been workin’ like a dog) my cave man nature inevitably kicks in. Not that I’m not already a cave man during my energetic hours, what I mean is after I’m all tired from work, I sort of devolve about two stages backward,

Women: The Damsels In Distress

Let’s admit it: We men are hilariously arrogant and insensitive when it comes to our women. Either we are consciously or unconsciously aware of what our actions might lead into; we still tend to play the good guy. If we did something wrong like forgetting to greet them (women) a happy 1st year anniversary, we occasionally pacify the situation with never-ending promises: “Dear, I’m sorry. I’ll make it up to you. I swear.” And to spice up a little bit, hugs and kisses would be the finale. Simply put, that’s how tricky we are. We fail to recognize the importance of the present situation. Call it an unstable thinking, but it’s true. Men’s feeling towards women is often imprecise. However, that doesn't mean it’s always the bad side. Our indifferences can sometimes lead to a better fruit. This is where we make our relationships a hell of a rollercoaster ride–fun and exciting. We just need to be in the right place at the right time, though.

7 Things to Do When You're With Your Lady

I'm not talking about just being with a lady like with her at a bar or just hanging out. Instead, I'm conveying about a relationship here -- something that comes with intimacy. So, this is for you guys out there who value their beloved girlfriend and/or wife. And, believe it or not,  this is coming from a simple big guy like me, okay? However, I'm not saying that I'm a love guru or whatsoever. I'm too far to be even one. Anyway, I bet it takes more than 7 things if it was from a woman's perspective. Listen up men: We were born for this. It's that we have spent our whole life in training without us even noticing it. You will surely get what I mean if you read through the end. As you may...

On The Flipside Of Davao City

For over twenty-something years of existence, I barely see myself living in another place except Davao. It seems that the city has got it all covered for me: Beautiful beaches, mouthwatering cuisines, sophisticated musical bars, eye-gawking sights, etc. This is not to mention the hospitable Davaoeños who’ll embrace you with smiles and loveliness. Indeed, Davao city is an exceptional one–there’s no doubt about it. However, I can’t help, but notice some disturbing truths within the city–something that I became aware of since the past few years.  I guess these are just inconvenient realities we need to chance upon.

Kuya Ed’s: The Simple Yet Satisfying Restaurant

Since I'm a food lover and my beer belly speaks of it, I can't merely resist the excitement I get when eating. Yes, you heard it right. If others say that eating is some sort of espionage, mine is quite different. The former is simply my niche. Call me swine or slob, but I can think and act better when my stomach is full. Well, everybody wants to fill that ever-empty-stomach especially after a long day. Although you might not believe me, food concoction is one of the reasons why I enjoy tasting (and eating, of course) the different mouthwatering dishes that a restaurant may offer. By the way, let me just remind that this is not a food blog. It so happens that one of the Culprits is a culinary lover. I may try writing more about food, though. What do you think?

Nanay Bebeng Restaurant: Mother Of Mouthwatering Filipino Cuisines

“When you cook, make love an ingredient.” These were exactly the words my mom uttered when she told me to cook food with passion and affection especially that I have a family of my own now. She believes that through this, one can unconditionally express his/her love. Honestly, I don’t know if it’s a traditional belief or my mom just wanted to be radical that time and I just have no alternative choices but to listen to her preaching. Seriously, I’m not a food enthusiast but I do love eating and you can tell it by the way my body looks. During this scenario, my mother was actually cooking “Kare-Kare,” a famous Philippine stew, for lunch. I admit it was delicious, but hey, reminiscing is one of my games. I can merely remember how this dish tasted when I decided to fill my tummy in one of the town’s best Filipino food spots–NANAY BEBENG RESTAURANT.

While In The Johns

Oh yeah people! You might not notice it but you actually do something other than what you need to do whenever you are using the toilet or using the bath. What might these things be? It could be anything! I will name a few which was surveyed to several people. Well… it’s not really a survey; I actually just asked them the question directly. It’s not even with several people, more like, with a bunch of friends… To be honest, this topic just popped out of nowhere when I and the guys were drinking at a house party.

Here’s what we all have been guilty of having.

The first thing we all agreed of is of course, the manly-thing, yep, good old jerking the junior down there until it cries out. I bet most men can relate to this: remembered when you were in the bathroom for an hour taking a “bath?" You just left the shower running, thinking people would hear the water instead of your weird moaning, right? Then, your mom’s like “Jimmy! What are you doing in the shower? And you’re like “I’m taking a bath!” and she’s like “Really? For an hour?” then you’re about to shoot it all out and you’re like “Oh yeah! Jessica Alba you’re so F**king hot!” and everyone in the house heard it. Awkward…

7 Reasons Why Studying On The Day Before The Exam Is Stupid

To tell you honestly, this idea came from my mom when my brother and I were still kids. She was even really submerged with this notion of hers. It was way back then, though.  She constantly reminds us that studying on the day before the exam is totally useless; it's not an effective thing to do for one to surpass the exam. At first, I don’t seem to understand her point when she wants us to achieve good grades. But, as the days passed, I realized that she was completely right. For her, studying and, most especially, familiarizing regularly our lessons is the effective thing to do. And, the former thing on the day before the exam is completely useless. Eventually, I applied my mom's idea. Well, what can I do? They tell me that mother knows best.

7 Of My All-Time Favorite Authors

Back when I was kid, stuffs like eating hot-dogs were a trophy to me; that’s how simple I think of life is. Although my mom always pushes me to read books to have something in my brain, I prefer ditching them on the sideline.  I was that naive. I thought I was enjoying my kid-life to the fullest. When I was halfway through my elementary years, I gradually developed a hunger for books. I really don’t know why, but I feel like I’m compelled to go the library and be a geek. But don’t get me wrong; I’m not into encyclopedias and/or historical books. These hardbound-nth-pages books were not part of my reading circles. The Hardy Boys, Franklin W. Dixon’s literary pieces, were my thing. At the same time, I never imagined that I’ll indulge with Carolyn Keene’s Nancy Drew. I’m quite the Sherlock Holmes during my youth. Anyway, let me share to you my seven (7) all-time authors that influenced my literary being.

Applying Carl Jung's Individuation In The Movie Inception

Yesterday, I decided to watch the movie Inception together with my wife regardless of my reluctance. Why? I do know that this film is quite complex yet interesting and requires one to fully comprehend every uttered word. But, my copy has no decent audio and subtitles. Thus, recognizing the movie’s transition was a feat for me. Nonetheless, I still handled the situation effectively –by putting my ears on the speakers, literally. Anyway, if you have had watched the movie Inception, you’ll certainly understand why I’m writing this down. At the same time, I know that you’re still wondering about the true meaning behind the ending of the movie. Don’t worry; we’re on the same page. However, I still managed to pull out, at least, some significant symbols in the movie that could somehow address the movie’s ambiguity.

The Perks of Having a Nice Cover

Him from Powerpuff Girls as Palahniuk's new model

Because idiots are rampant on the bookstores these days (including me), you can gain gazillions of money (pathetic hyperbole is intended!) by writing lorem ipsum dolor in the mid section of your generic story and sticking a kickass design on its cover. Read the stuff I wrote during my college days about book cover designs. I'm warning ya', read it!

Who Should We Invite To Our Wedding?

Photo source: www.waringis.com

Wedding day is the best day for most couples would ever have had. From the years of relationship with so many tests, challenges, and adjustments to face until the time when both agreed to enter a married life. Another short-term pressure comes in when a couple starts their planning and costing for the wedding day. Financial budget is always the first factor to be considered. But nothing beats the part where couple begins to think of who will actually be there on their lives' biggest day and event. Who will be the priority to receive an invitation card? Of course, sponsors, relatives, and closed friends are the top priority to be invited. But is it wise enough to invite those who once doubted your relationship and decision in getting married? How will it affect the atmosphere of your wedding if they are there again?

The Memories of Yesterdays

According to Mother Teresa, “If you judge someone, you have no time to love them.” I first saw this quote when it was posted on my sixth-grade classroom wall, and I ignored it. Relatively, I hated the idea, but perhaps I knew that the quote’s veracity was inarguable. I felt that it was better to judge people so as not to have to love them, because some people don’t deserve a chance. Judgments are shields, and mine was impenetrable.I have always put my attention to my family, my inspiration, love and time. My parents did not always have a harmonious relationship.

Why I'm Still Courting "WRITING" Until Now

Indeed, this site has still a lot of loads to do before it makes any recognition in the blogosphere. With all the various websites lurking in the latter,  the former would definitely have a hard time snaking through the labyrinth. The best thing, however, is that writing has no barriers; a single phrase or word can either be precised or ambiguous when it comes to this niche. It totally depends on how passionate the writer is, though. One can perceive an array of perspectives and/or ideologies regardless of the subject being sufficed. For me, nonetheless, writing is literature and I'm fueled to write despite the countless walls that surround me.

The Walking Dead: A New Season For Love, Hope And ZOMBIES

Yes, the zombies are back! After few months of hiatus, the ever noted zombie-series, Walking Dead, is back–fresh from the grave mates. Since season one, this zombie apocalypse thread has been a part of my imagination. Of course, who would not love the angst, excitement and filthiness that Walking Dead offers. This is not to mention the interesting personalities and ideologies of each character as they pave their way for survival.  I’m not a fan of that kid, though. Nonetheless, Andrew Lincoln, Norman Reedus, Steven Yeun, Lauren Cohan (God, she’s hot!), Danai Gurira (God, she’s chicken-hot!), David Morissey and others teamed up for the upcoming Walking Dead Season 4