About the Book
At the root of it, I believe every human is filled with an angel and a beast. Both sides have their benefits, but too much of either is not for the best. The angel side allows us to see the beauty in life; the beauty in others. The beast aids us in survival, because let us admit it, life is cruel. If we're too angelic, then we get stepped on while we admire the flowers. If we embrace the beast too much, then destruction is left in the wake of our paths. Here I find myself, the average man, fighting the never-ending battle that resides in all of us. Though we may never be able to speak openly about it, we can write it. This is what I have done. Instead of just tucking it away, I have decided to put it out there for all of you. Here you will find the beauty of life through my eyes. The pain and anguish will be evident. To love is to live and there is a fair share of that too. Of course, everyone has their quirky side, so I included that, even though it may be strange to you. It makes perfect sense to me. I couldn't leave out the questions about life I have either. We were born into this world with one burning question always on our mind. Why? Maybe my mind does this more than others, maybe not, but it is always working on some thought. It's possible that some of my thoughts have crossed your mind too, but we'll have to see. If not, then it might give you something to think about. So, here is how I look at the world, those around me, and most importantly my inner being. Here I am, at my deepest and most profound depths.
About the Author: I was born in a small town in New Jersey, with humble beginnings. My upbringing taught me to work for everything I have and to embrace what life gives me. To be honest, I couldn't wait to spread my wings, as they say, and break myself free from the confines of small town living. Once able, I left for college in North Carolina. My time there was brief, but memorable. Still not feeling free, I moved out west and spent a few years there, exploring all that I could. Once I was ready to settle down, I moved back to North Carolina and did just that. This is where my son was born and I met the most wonderful woman in the world. Yes, she is my second wife, the one I was meant to be with. Even though I needed to break free from my beginnings, I now know it was a wonderful place to grow up. This is why I have settled in a small town, much like the one I knew in my childhood. I thoroughly enjoy raising my son here, where he can play in the yard, without worry. I love the fact that everyone knows everyone and that there is a sense of community. This is why I work here, as a teacher, and coach the youth. I believe that it does take a village to raise a child. This is my village and I do what I can to make it the best that it can be. Though my life now isn't much different than my own beginnings, I wouldn't want it any other way. I am not a Harvard graduate, but I have spent my life studying at the University of Hard Knocks. I am just like many of you and I wouldn't have it any other way. Whether it is watching a ball game, hanging out with friends, spending quality time with family, or mowing the grass, I have learned to enjoy it all. Every day I wake up it is a blessing. As far as writing goes, I have been doing it as long as I can remember. I find purity in it. I find peace, no matter how chaotic life may be. I write about all that I see, hear, feel, taste, encounter, and find within my mind and soul. I believe we are made up of all that we allow ourselves to do, whether it be right or wrong, and that without testing new waters and trying new things, we become a shell. This is our makeup, for better or worse. Because of this, the honesty from the written word is like no other. I believe that is what you will find from mine especially. I don't believe in pulling punches in general, but especially when writing. I say it how I see it. This may not be for everyone, but I think everyone can get something out of it. It is just pure honest thoughts, from an average man.
