I blinked and we’re halfway through 2024. This has been an interesting year for me, one filled with a lot of work and also introspection. There’s a song by John Lennon called “Watching the Wheels“. It’s one of my favorites; the melody and the chorus have been a touchstone over the years. The words tend to pop in my head when the world becomes a bit too much. And it’s a good match for the current season I’m in:
I’m just sitting here watching the wheels go round and round
I really love to watch them roll
No longer riding on the merry-go-round
I just had to let it go
Watching the news, and the current infighting in America, I feel like this. I’m not a politician. I have very little power to make lasting change, at least in the immediate sense. I try to do good in my career, through the children we sponsor and in my prayer life. But sometimes, I feel a bit like John: just watching chaos unfolding that I’d rather have nothing to do with. Beam me up, Peter–have you seen the circus down here?
Writing wise, I’ve started querying my YA Fantasy book. It’s a peach, a gem and I’m quite proud of her. I’m also still trying to find a home for a horror novella and a sci-fi short story I’ve written. I’ve been enjoying writing on this end, along with doing some house projects and taking care of the Godzilla known as my Labrador. If her meals are late, or if you forget her lunchtime walks, heaven help you.
In my little corner of the world, I’m trying to light as many small candles as I can and keep them lit. Spread the kindness, encourage others, while keeping Godzilla from destroying the neighborhood. All in a days work. And of course, I plan to vote, too.
I hope everyone is having a good summer. Peace be with you. Eat lots of vegetables, go on walks. Talk with the guy in dusty sandals. And happy writing.
P.S.–I also saw the movie “Legend” a few weeks ago for the first time. It was…interesting. Surreal. Trippy. Choppy in its editing and storyline. But very magical and filled with pure imagination. It has beautiful scenery, visuals and its innocence was refreshing. I think I really liked it. I am looking forward to watching it again and checking out the other versions. Here’s one of my favorite scenes from it, near the climax. Enjoy.
A.R. Clayton 