By Shirley M. Carolan
As a young girl raised and educated in London, England I grew up with a love of the English language and a passion for Shakespeare, for his astute way with words and particularly his gift of farce. Later, I was selected to act in many of his plays. As a result, I knew most of his soliloquies by heart. Upon emigrating to the United States, the nuns at Queen of the Rosary Academy, Amityville, New York promptly entered me in the Long Island Oratorical Championships, feeling I had the best chance to represent the Academy. Alas, my English accent worked against me as I was considered a "professional."
But, I never lost my love for words. To this day, I firmly believe that "Words are the poetry of the soul. They are as unique as your fingerprints. You owe it to yourself to leave the finest imprint!©" Theater continued to be an important part of my life. Living in New York, I was in awe of all the Broadway productions. It was a smorgasbord of talent, sights and sounds. I tried to see as many plays as my meager salary allowed.
Moving to San Francisco in the mid 1960s was also a thespian’s paradise. I bought season tickets to ACT so that I would not miss out on the theatrical scene. Of course, like any great cosmopolitan city, it also offered wonderful Opera and exquisite ballet. "The Nutcracker" quickly became my favorite. To this day, Christmas is not Christmas for me without seeing some performance of The Nutcracker! How fortunate we are in San Diego County to have so many venues to choose from!
Methinks I have digressed too much. I only wanted to show how much I enjoy theatre and that we are so lucky to have the best at our fingertips! I speak of Mira Costa College Performing Arts Theater here in Oceanside, CA. They just changed their name to "Mira Costa Theatre Spotlight Circle." Last Saturday night I saw the wonderful production of Ken Ludwig’s "Lend Me A Tenor," directed by Eric Bishop. If you like farce then this will be your cup of tea. As Eric Bishop says "Farce is one of the most demanding of the comic performing styles. Playing farce requires a learned style of acting that embraces heightened reality. It requires a great deal of skill, commitment, courage, cracker-jack timing, vocal energy/power, specificity and pure physical stamina."
Seeing this production brought back fond memories of my own professional stage debut in 1994 in the British comedy "It Runs In The Family" by Ray Cooney, at the Alterena Playhouse, Alameda, CA. In addition to learning the rigors of comedy, we also had to learn how to enter and exit the stage appropriately, since the Alterena Playhouse is a theater-in-the-round and at any given time we would have our backs to one side of the audience. The role of "Matron," the head nurse of a London hospital was tailor made for me. Albeit I did have to learn how to act mean and project my voice. Ah, but the roar of the crowd, the curtain calls, and meeting the public in the foyer at the end of every performance were more than worth it!
Again, if you like theatre, particularly farce, I encourage you to see this delightful production of "Lend Me A Tenor," at Mira Costa Theatre Spotlight Circle. The Theatre is conveniently located right off Highway 78 at College Boulevard. The address is One Barnard Drive, Oceanside, CA.
Reservations can be made at the box office: 760-795-6815. Senior citizens get a special rate. Unfortunately this is the final weekend of this wonderful production. No excuses, just pick yourself up and treat yourself to a wonderful evening or matinee! You'll be glad you did!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATM
Author • Writer • Coach
Carolan Communications
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
carolcom@qwestinternet.net
www.shirleycarolan.com
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
WHO SAYS OCEANSIDE IS A CULTURAL VOID?
By Shirley M. Carolan
For far too long, I feel that Oceanside has been the brunt of snickers that we, as a community, are devoid of cultural events, educational opportunities in the Arts, Art Shows, galleries and wonderful theatre and film.
This past weekend, I got out of my usual rut and excuses and had the cultural time of my life! I didn’t wait for others to decide to go with me, as I generally do. Instead, I chose to go alone despite what seemed like inclement weather on Sunday and had the time of my life!
The point is, whether you are young, old, retired, married, widowed, divorced, single, or even physically challenged, there is something in this wonderful town for everyone’s taste and pocketbook! As a young at heart, mature, high-energy, accomplished, single woman, I can vouch that my generation is certainly not excluded or wanting for cultural and fun things to enjoy in Oceanside.
While I feel I have just scratched the surface of what my town has to offer, my whole world has just done an about face! I hope you will read and enjoy the following two events I attended this past weekend. Perhaps they will inspire YOU to attend Mira Costa College’s wonderful theatre treats, and next year’s Annual Art Show. In fact, next year I intend to exhibit my own oil paintings at the Show! See you there!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATM
Author • Writer • Coach
Carolan Communications
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
carolcom@qwestinternet.net
www.shirleycarolan.com
For far too long, I feel that Oceanside has been the brunt of snickers that we, as a community, are devoid of cultural events, educational opportunities in the Arts, Art Shows, galleries and wonderful theatre and film.
This past weekend, I got out of my usual rut and excuses and had the cultural time of my life! I didn’t wait for others to decide to go with me, as I generally do. Instead, I chose to go alone despite what seemed like inclement weather on Sunday and had the time of my life!
The point is, whether you are young, old, retired, married, widowed, divorced, single, or even physically challenged, there is something in this wonderful town for everyone’s taste and pocketbook! As a young at heart, mature, high-energy, accomplished, single woman, I can vouch that my generation is certainly not excluded or wanting for cultural and fun things to enjoy in Oceanside.
While I feel I have just scratched the surface of what my town has to offer, my whole world has just done an about face! I hope you will read and enjoy the following two events I attended this past weekend. Perhaps they will inspire YOU to attend Mira Costa College’s wonderful theatre treats, and next year’s Annual Art Show. In fact, next year I intend to exhibit my own oil paintings at the Show! See you there!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATM
Author • Writer • Coach
Carolan Communications
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
carolcom@qwestinternet.net
www.shirleycarolan.com
Saturday, March 31, 2007
PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE!
By Shirley M. Carolan
This month, the old adage "Patience is a Virtue," combined with Murphy’s Law, was brought home to me with a vengeance! It has been several years since I’ve invested in a new computer system. But I was fed up with my HP crashing all the time and getting it overhauled, so I decided it was time to bite the bullet and invest in a new system. I wanted something I could depend upon and was not overly concerned with getting all the latest bells and whistles.
Not being a techie, I enlisted the aid of a friend to help me research best buys and compatability with the type of usage I would give it. That certainly speeded up the process and saved some valuable time. After deciding upon what, and where to buy it, I brought my new system home full of enthusiasm. Connecting everything, I was sure, would not be a problem, since I’d purchased many computers over the years and never had a problem hooking up all the cables and cords to the various hardware.
Alas, that was my first mistake! I assumed that was all I needed to do and voila I would be up and running and enjoying my new computer and software (including Microsoft Windows Vista). Three weeks later and many frantic calls to India for help (Hewlett-Packard outsources its on-line help to folks in India) I am finally up and but not as completely running as I would like to be.
Murphy’s Law took over from the time I installed the first cable. Glitches that Microsoft, Hewlett Packard, my ISP, the phone company, etc. could not help me with I learned on my own by trial and error! For example, when I went to establish my Internet connection I used the Area Code, as well as the number, that my ISP had given me to connect to. This was the biggest mistake of all! Everyone insisted it was a "working number" and couldn’t figure out why I was getting an error message and could not connect to the Internet. It seems I didn’t need to type in the Area Code in order to connect to the Internet, just the telephone number! In pure desperation I figured this one out. But, multiply that glitch by 10 more and you have some idea of the daunting tasks I faced.
Another serious glitch was that the hard drive had not been configured to allow me to save my work to a CD drive. All indications were that I had a C, D, F, G. and H drive but no E drive! I struggled to find a solution on my own. Another fatal mistake ... Meanwhile, I was saving all my hard work and documents to the C drive expecting a solution to miraculously appear.
Would you believe that on my final call to India and Hewlett Packard help, I ended up losing three week’s of work? The hard drive had to be reconfigured to include the E drive (the one that allows CDs to be written to). Why this was not done before it left the factory I will never know! Sadly, there are some files and emails that I will never recover, including all my latest blog posts.
These are but a few of the things that can sorely test one’s patience. Of course, I had some choice words to say about my new system but they are gradually fading from memory. It has taught me that gone are the days when you can bring home a new computer, monitor, printer, etc. and just plug it in, register it, and expect everything to work just fine.
Today, you have to be a lot more savvy about software, drivers, updates, and whether your new system can accept your "old" software, whether you can upgrade it, or whether, heaven forbid, you have to purchase all new software. For a non-techie like myself, this is quite a daunting task. My last system dates back to the "Dark Ages" of 2002. At the time I had purchased MS Office 2000 Professional and was very happy with it. Of course, the new system (MS Vista Home Edition) does not accept it, and it only came with MS Works and Notepad, no MS Word. Right now I am not in a mood to upgrade, although I know eventually I will have to. But, I did upgrade my WordPerfect software on my "old" PC sufficiently that it will work with MS Vista! Yippee! I grew up with WordPerfect in the early 1980's. It’s a wonderful software package and has Quatro Pro, etc. I intend to relearn everything I’ve forgotten about this wonderful software, including saving/sending documents with file endings that others can open!
Take that Microsoft and Mr. Gates! My patience and confidence have been restored!
Shirley M. Carolan
Speaker/Writer/Coach
Carolan Communications
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
carolcom@qwestinternet.net
www.shirleycarolan.com
http://angelscross.blogspot.com
This month, the old adage "Patience is a Virtue," combined with Murphy’s Law, was brought home to me with a vengeance! It has been several years since I’ve invested in a new computer system. But I was fed up with my HP crashing all the time and getting it overhauled, so I decided it was time to bite the bullet and invest in a new system. I wanted something I could depend upon and was not overly concerned with getting all the latest bells and whistles.
Not being a techie, I enlisted the aid of a friend to help me research best buys and compatability with the type of usage I would give it. That certainly speeded up the process and saved some valuable time. After deciding upon what, and where to buy it, I brought my new system home full of enthusiasm. Connecting everything, I was sure, would not be a problem, since I’d purchased many computers over the years and never had a problem hooking up all the cables and cords to the various hardware.
Alas, that was my first mistake! I assumed that was all I needed to do and voila I would be up and running and enjoying my new computer and software (including Microsoft Windows Vista). Three weeks later and many frantic calls to India for help (Hewlett-Packard outsources its on-line help to folks in India) I am finally up and but not as completely running as I would like to be.
Murphy’s Law took over from the time I installed the first cable. Glitches that Microsoft, Hewlett Packard, my ISP, the phone company, etc. could not help me with I learned on my own by trial and error! For example, when I went to establish my Internet connection I used the Area Code, as well as the number, that my ISP had given me to connect to. This was the biggest mistake of all! Everyone insisted it was a "working number" and couldn’t figure out why I was getting an error message and could not connect to the Internet. It seems I didn’t need to type in the Area Code in order to connect to the Internet, just the telephone number! In pure desperation I figured this one out. But, multiply that glitch by 10 more and you have some idea of the daunting tasks I faced.
Another serious glitch was that the hard drive had not been configured to allow me to save my work to a CD drive. All indications were that I had a C, D, F, G. and H drive but no E drive! I struggled to find a solution on my own. Another fatal mistake ... Meanwhile, I was saving all my hard work and documents to the C drive expecting a solution to miraculously appear.
Would you believe that on my final call to India and Hewlett Packard help, I ended up losing three week’s of work? The hard drive had to be reconfigured to include the E drive (the one that allows CDs to be written to). Why this was not done before it left the factory I will never know! Sadly, there are some files and emails that I will never recover, including all my latest blog posts.
These are but a few of the things that can sorely test one’s patience. Of course, I had some choice words to say about my new system but they are gradually fading from memory. It has taught me that gone are the days when you can bring home a new computer, monitor, printer, etc. and just plug it in, register it, and expect everything to work just fine.
Today, you have to be a lot more savvy about software, drivers, updates, and whether your new system can accept your "old" software, whether you can upgrade it, or whether, heaven forbid, you have to purchase all new software. For a non-techie like myself, this is quite a daunting task. My last system dates back to the "Dark Ages" of 2002. At the time I had purchased MS Office 2000 Professional and was very happy with it. Of course, the new system (MS Vista Home Edition) does not accept it, and it only came with MS Works and Notepad, no MS Word. Right now I am not in a mood to upgrade, although I know eventually I will have to. But, I did upgrade my WordPerfect software on my "old" PC sufficiently that it will work with MS Vista! Yippee! I grew up with WordPerfect in the early 1980's. It’s a wonderful software package and has Quatro Pro, etc. I intend to relearn everything I’ve forgotten about this wonderful software, including saving/sending documents with file endings that others can open!
Take that Microsoft and Mr. Gates! My patience and confidence have been restored!
Shirley M. Carolan
Speaker/Writer/Coach
Carolan Communications
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
carolcom@qwestinternet.net
www.shirleycarolan.com
http://angelscross.blogspot.com
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
MIRA COSTA COLLEGE CLASSES
By Shirley M. Carolan
It is with great joy I announce that yesterday, February 12, 2007 I met with Ms. Christine Buckley, Director of Community Services and Business Development at Mira Costa College, Oceanside, CA to discuss a proposal, work book, and curriculum I submitted to teach Journaling Workshops on campus.
After an extensive review of how I would present the workshop, materials and exercises, she was more than satisfied that I am passionate about Journaling, and she has engaged me to teach Journaling at the college during this summer semester. Stay tuned for more details regarding registration.
As many of you know, I am gung-ho about Journaling and use it as a tool to get in touch with feelings about people, places, and events happening in my life. It's a wonderful tool to heal, overcome stress, confusion, depression, and to help during transition periods. That is why I created a new blog site "ANGELS CROSSING" at http://angelscross.blogspot.com. The site will feature uplifting personal stories, inspirational articles, tips, etc. It will also focus on how Journaling can help you find balance and harmony in life. I invite you to check it out.
Meanwhile, your feedback is always encouraged! .
Shirley M. Carolan. ATM
Speaker/Writer/Coach
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
carolcom@qwestinternet.net
http://smcarolan.blogspot.com
http://angelscross.blogspot.com
It is with great joy I announce that yesterday, February 12, 2007 I met with Ms. Christine Buckley, Director of Community Services and Business Development at Mira Costa College, Oceanside, CA to discuss a proposal, work book, and curriculum I submitted to teach Journaling Workshops on campus.
After an extensive review of how I would present the workshop, materials and exercises, she was more than satisfied that I am passionate about Journaling, and she has engaged me to teach Journaling at the college during this summer semester. Stay tuned for more details regarding registration.
As many of you know, I am gung-ho about Journaling and use it as a tool to get in touch with feelings about people, places, and events happening in my life. It's a wonderful tool to heal, overcome stress, confusion, depression, and to help during transition periods. That is why I created a new blog site "ANGELS CROSSING" at http://angelscross.blogspot.com. The site will feature uplifting personal stories, inspirational articles, tips, etc. It will also focus on how Journaling can help you find balance and harmony in life. I invite you to check it out.
Meanwhile, your feedback is always encouraged! .
Shirley M. Carolan. ATM
Speaker/Writer/Coach
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
carolcom@qwestinternet.net
http://smcarolan.blogspot.com
http://angelscross.blogspot.com
Thursday, January 11, 2007
A NEW YEAR AND NEW CLASSES!
By Shirley M. Carolan
A Happy and Prosperous New Year to everyone, especially my wonderful and supportive clients! This Holiday Season brought many new and interesting traditions into my life. In fact, I am going to start a new Blog about some of them, especially my Labyrinth Walk on December 30, 2006 at the beautiful Bonsall, CA estate of Rick and Dr. Patricia Crane. Some quiet miracles, ah-ah moments, and improved relationships have resulted. I'm still trying on names for it so stay tuned!
In the meantime, I am happy to announce that my "Goal Setting" classes will resume on January 24 and January 31 at one of the beautiful classrooms at the new Salvation Army building in Oceanside, CA. A workbook, fun exercises, discussion on why we sometimes sabotage our goals and what to do about it, examining the "Wheel of Life" the 6 areas: "Financial/Career, "Physical/Health, Mental/Educational, Social/Cultural, Spirtual/Ethical, and Family/Home" will be included. I am purposely keeping the tuition low so that more people can take advantage. Space is limited and reservations are required. For more information please see my website: www.shirleycarolan.com.
Also, "Journaling" classes will be resuming. The emphasis here will be on "healing old wounds," examining who pushes your buttons and why, taking your power back, improving, or starting new relationships with folks who honor you! Stay tuned.
May 2007 be your year to shine, get rid of the clutter, stop procrastinating and live the life of your dreams. Please contact me if you have any questions!
Shirley M. Carolan
Speaker/Writer/Coach
Carolan Communications
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
carolcom@qwestinternet.net
www.shirleycarolan.com
http://smcarolan.blogspot.com
A Happy and Prosperous New Year to everyone, especially my wonderful and supportive clients! This Holiday Season brought many new and interesting traditions into my life. In fact, I am going to start a new Blog about some of them, especially my Labyrinth Walk on December 30, 2006 at the beautiful Bonsall, CA estate of Rick and Dr. Patricia Crane. Some quiet miracles, ah-ah moments, and improved relationships have resulted. I'm still trying on names for it so stay tuned!
In the meantime, I am happy to announce that my "Goal Setting" classes will resume on January 24 and January 31 at one of the beautiful classrooms at the new Salvation Army building in Oceanside, CA. A workbook, fun exercises, discussion on why we sometimes sabotage our goals and what to do about it, examining the "Wheel of Life" the 6 areas: "Financial/Career, "Physical/Health, Mental/Educational, Social/Cultural, Spirtual/Ethical, and Family/Home" will be included. I am purposely keeping the tuition low so that more people can take advantage. Space is limited and reservations are required. For more information please see my website: www.shirleycarolan.com.
Also, "Journaling" classes will be resuming. The emphasis here will be on "healing old wounds," examining who pushes your buttons and why, taking your power back, improving, or starting new relationships with folks who honor you! Stay tuned.
May 2007 be your year to shine, get rid of the clutter, stop procrastinating and live the life of your dreams. Please contact me if you have any questions!
Shirley M. Carolan
Speaker/Writer/Coach
Carolan Communications
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
carolcom@qwestinternet.net
www.shirleycarolan.com
http://smcarolan.blogspot.com
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
ANNUAL BOAT PARADE OF LIGHTS
A New Holiday Tradition
By Shirley M. Carolan
With the advent of the Holiday Season it's very easy to get caught up in the hustle, bustle, expectations, and shop-till-you-drop mentality. This year I decided to change old behaviors and customs and try a new adventure, without expecting others to join me. I wanted to do, or see, something I would not normally do on my own, something that would be uniquely mine, and give me many fond memories to reflect on throughout the year. I didn't have to look far to find something that would fill this bill. I share that with you now because the result has been an increase in my energy, a new appreciation of my decision-making abilities, joy at doing something nice on my own, and a new holiday tradition! :
Ever since moving from San Francisco to southern California, December 1997, I have wanted to see the annual "Boat Parade of Lights" at the Oceanside Harbor. This is a wonderful event that seems to start the holiday festivities off in the right direction. Each year I forgot, had other plans, or couldn't find anyone who wanted to go. Last night, I jumped in my car and drove down to the Oceanside Harbor. I treated myself to dinner at the Oceanside Yacht Club followed by the parade.
Incidentally, this is one of the few times in the year that the yacht club is open to the public. It was well worth the time and money. I met some very nice folks who were experiencing it for the first time too. Now, I plan on making it a holiday tradition, along with seeing The Nutcracker, of course!
The parade started at 7 PM with 30 boats, power boats and sail boats, lovingly and exquisitely decorated with colored lights, Santas, reindeer and holiday motifs sailed by. The oohs and aahs, and hand clapping of the crowd were almost deafening! I am glad I was not a judge at this event. I knew the newspapers would have a field day taking photos for their Sunday editions. We are so blessed to have such a beautiful harbor! So many wealthier cities along our west coast don't, except perhaps Newport Beach, which has their parade over several nights. I've seen it many times because my twin brother was a staff commodore at one of the yacht clubs there. But, I think our boats and parade could surely give them a run for their money!
If you live nearby, and you've not seen this parade I highly recommend it. If you have folks visiting they will love it too! Better yet, don’t be afraid to go on your own especially if you are a woman and/or live alone. I did, and now I'm hooked!
I heard talk last night that next year they plan on having the parade on more than just one night. A lot of the fine restaurants and unique little shops down at the harbor have asked them to do so. Stay tuned.
Now I'm ready to face the endless Christmas shopping with renewed vigor. I hope this will encourage you to do something nice for yourself this Christmas and set a new tradition without expecting others to join you! You'll be glad you did. As Shakespeare said "Action is Eloquence!"
Shirley M. Carolan, ATM
Speaker/Writer/Coach
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
carolcom@qwestinternet.net
www.shirleycarolan.com
http://smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright © 2006 by Shirley Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any portion of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at carolcom@qwestinternet.net .
. .
By Shirley M. Carolan
With the advent of the Holiday Season it's very easy to get caught up in the hustle, bustle, expectations, and shop-till-you-drop mentality. This year I decided to change old behaviors and customs and try a new adventure, without expecting others to join me. I wanted to do, or see, something I would not normally do on my own, something that would be uniquely mine, and give me many fond memories to reflect on throughout the year. I didn't have to look far to find something that would fill this bill. I share that with you now because the result has been an increase in my energy, a new appreciation of my decision-making abilities, joy at doing something nice on my own, and a new holiday tradition! :
Ever since moving from San Francisco to southern California, December 1997, I have wanted to see the annual "Boat Parade of Lights" at the Oceanside Harbor. This is a wonderful event that seems to start the holiday festivities off in the right direction. Each year I forgot, had other plans, or couldn't find anyone who wanted to go. Last night, I jumped in my car and drove down to the Oceanside Harbor. I treated myself to dinner at the Oceanside Yacht Club followed by the parade.
Incidentally, this is one of the few times in the year that the yacht club is open to the public. It was well worth the time and money. I met some very nice folks who were experiencing it for the first time too. Now, I plan on making it a holiday tradition, along with seeing The Nutcracker, of course!
The parade started at 7 PM with 30 boats, power boats and sail boats, lovingly and exquisitely decorated with colored lights, Santas, reindeer and holiday motifs sailed by. The oohs and aahs, and hand clapping of the crowd were almost deafening! I am glad I was not a judge at this event. I knew the newspapers would have a field day taking photos for their Sunday editions. We are so blessed to have such a beautiful harbor! So many wealthier cities along our west coast don't, except perhaps Newport Beach, which has their parade over several nights. I've seen it many times because my twin brother was a staff commodore at one of the yacht clubs there. But, I think our boats and parade could surely give them a run for their money!
If you live nearby, and you've not seen this parade I highly recommend it. If you have folks visiting they will love it too! Better yet, don’t be afraid to go on your own especially if you are a woman and/or live alone. I did, and now I'm hooked!
I heard talk last night that next year they plan on having the parade on more than just one night. A lot of the fine restaurants and unique little shops down at the harbor have asked them to do so. Stay tuned.
Now I'm ready to face the endless Christmas shopping with renewed vigor. I hope this will encourage you to do something nice for yourself this Christmas and set a new tradition without expecting others to join you! You'll be glad you did. As Shakespeare said "Action is Eloquence!"
Shirley M. Carolan, ATM
Speaker/Writer/Coach
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
carolcom@qwestinternet.net
www.shirleycarolan.com
http://smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright © 2006 by Shirley Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any portion of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at carolcom@qwestinternet.net .
. .
Friday, November 17, 2006
WRITING IS A NOBLE PROFESSION©
"IT SPEAKS ALL LANGUAGES! "
By Shirley M. Carolan
Growing up in the Land of Shakespeare and the Magna Carta, I developed a healthy respect and love for the English language. I was fascinated by both the sound and the meaning of words! It has been a lasting, worthy, and passionate love affair to this day! And, quite frankly, I expect to take this love affair of words with me to the grave!
As I reflect on the myriad careers I've tried, none has ever given me the joy, rewards, recognition, that writing has …. real estate, insurance, antiques, maritime, teaching, and 30 years in corporate America, could not even hold a candle to the wonderful world of words. Only teaching comes close to the sense of fulfillment, of being alive, and helping others that writing brings.
Regardless of what I am writing, or for whom, I use skills that I thoroughly enjoy. I even love the solitude, or privacy, that writing affords. I never seem to be at a loss for words, and am free to put them on paper whenever I choose. I can write at 6 AM or midnight, in my 'jamas, jeans, or 2-piece suit. My age is not a deterrent or handicap in this profession, unlike what I've experienced in other fields. Need I go on?
When I graduated from high school, a month after my 16th birthday, in my new, adopted country, the United States of America, I had no business skills to earn a living with and had to settle for menial work until I was able to save enough money to put myself through Business School while also supporting my parents. It never occurred to me back then that the love of words would be my way out of the "ghetto! " That would come years later and is for another article …
Today, I am grateful that I never lost my curiosity and love of words, especially since these last few years I've been earning my living as a freelance writer. I've met, and interviewed, some wonderful people, from many professions: doctors, dentists, chiropractors, veterinarians, politicians, dress designers, Hollywood directors, entrepreneurs, outstanding senior citizens, movers and shakers. Then, I've written articles, personal interest stories, advertorials, etc. about them and their business, some even making the cover of glossy magazines.
When I think about writing, it's more than just writing, it's about thinking and putting thoughts, down on paper. Where else can you get paid for your thoughts? A think tank perhaps? But that's not everyone's cup of tea, even if you're an expert in a particular field. So, let me define what writing means to me because it cannot be captured in a sentence, or even a paragraph. It's far too complex for that.
What Is Writing?
1. Writing is an art.
2. It captures the mind and the soul
3. It is creative
4. It is expressive
5. It allows us to express our values/beliefs/truths
6. Writing is both personal and powerful
7. It is a forum to share (our thoughts/truths/etc.) with others
8. It can heal
9. It connects us with others and the universe at large
10. Without writing, mankind would lose its rich heritage –
its place in history
11. It influences, persuades, motivates, inspires others
12. It enlightens others
13. It educates
14. It conveys emotions, strengths – weaknesses
15. It motivates and is a catalyst for change
16. It uplifts the spirit
17. It praises and expresses appreciation
18. Writing honors our spiritual world and God
19. It is an on-going process – it never ends!
20. Writing should never be used as propaganda – to fool others!
Furthermore, writing is an essential tool used by all businesses; to market their products, services, expertise, in the public or private sector. Good writing can make or break a business. It can pave the way to staying in business, and to making a profit A business literally thrives on good writing. It can even measure its success of the written word through:
· Brochures
· Annual reports
· Stockholders' interests
· Sales materials/promotions
· Newsletters
· Websites
· Blogs
· HowTo Manuals
· Training Materials
· Business Cards
· Press Releases
· White Papers
To be sure, the above is not meant to be all-inclusive but it certainly dignifies and illustrates the beauty and value of what words can achieve.
Lately, I've been doing a lot of editing for clients and it occurred to me that anyone can write but it takes a discerning mind to have a real impact on others. This is especially true if you are preparing to give a speech to a formidable, paying audience. Here is where I feel I have the best of both worlds since I both speak and write to diverse audiences. Hence, I leave you with some thoughts to ponder. Maybe you'll discover what writing means to you. Maybe you'll decide to try it as a career!
I feel a good writer and speaker have much in common. They both need to have and master some fundamental skills: Following are some skills worth cultivating and using..
Essential Skills:
· Sincerity
· Honesty
· Perceptiveness
· Ability to see both sides of any situation
· Dedication
· Enthusiasm
· High energy
· Ability to get all the facts, especially in reporting
· Be unbiased yet be willing to tell both sides of a situation
· Patience with yourself and others
· Be prepared, punctual, professional
· Willingness to rewrite if the client wants it
Lastly, I think being a good writer means never doubting your skills and abilities, at least not to the point of sabotaging yourself. It also means knowing when to stop! Knowing when enough rewriting and editing are enough! Journaling has helped me to see my patterns, what habits are working for, or against me, and where I can be proud of taking action to achieve my goals. Life is indeed a journey and so is writing!
Ah yes, writing is a wonderful way of life. That's why I came up with the motto: "Words are the poetry of the soul! They are as unique as your fingerprints. You owe it to yourself to leave the finest imprint!" .
Shirley M. Carolan, ATM
Speaker/Writer/Coach
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
Carolcom@qwestinternet.net
www.shirleycarolan.com
http://smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright © 2006 by Shirley Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any portion of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at carolcom@qwestinternet.net.
By Shirley M. Carolan
Growing up in the Land of Shakespeare and the Magna Carta, I developed a healthy respect and love for the English language. I was fascinated by both the sound and the meaning of words! It has been a lasting, worthy, and passionate love affair to this day! And, quite frankly, I expect to take this love affair of words with me to the grave!
As I reflect on the myriad careers I've tried, none has ever given me the joy, rewards, recognition, that writing has …. real estate, insurance, antiques, maritime, teaching, and 30 years in corporate America, could not even hold a candle to the wonderful world of words. Only teaching comes close to the sense of fulfillment, of being alive, and helping others that writing brings.
Regardless of what I am writing, or for whom, I use skills that I thoroughly enjoy. I even love the solitude, or privacy, that writing affords. I never seem to be at a loss for words, and am free to put them on paper whenever I choose. I can write at 6 AM or midnight, in my 'jamas, jeans, or 2-piece suit. My age is not a deterrent or handicap in this profession, unlike what I've experienced in other fields. Need I go on?
When I graduated from high school, a month after my 16th birthday, in my new, adopted country, the United States of America, I had no business skills to earn a living with and had to settle for menial work until I was able to save enough money to put myself through Business School while also supporting my parents. It never occurred to me back then that the love of words would be my way out of the "ghetto! " That would come years later and is for another article …
Today, I am grateful that I never lost my curiosity and love of words, especially since these last few years I've been earning my living as a freelance writer. I've met, and interviewed, some wonderful people, from many professions: doctors, dentists, chiropractors, veterinarians, politicians, dress designers, Hollywood directors, entrepreneurs, outstanding senior citizens, movers and shakers. Then, I've written articles, personal interest stories, advertorials, etc. about them and their business, some even making the cover of glossy magazines.
When I think about writing, it's more than just writing, it's about thinking and putting thoughts, down on paper. Where else can you get paid for your thoughts? A think tank perhaps? But that's not everyone's cup of tea, even if you're an expert in a particular field. So, let me define what writing means to me because it cannot be captured in a sentence, or even a paragraph. It's far too complex for that.
What Is Writing?
1. Writing is an art.
2. It captures the mind and the soul
3. It is creative
4. It is expressive
5. It allows us to express our values/beliefs/truths
6. Writing is both personal and powerful
7. It is a forum to share (our thoughts/truths/etc.) with others
8. It can heal
9. It connects us with others and the universe at large
10. Without writing, mankind would lose its rich heritage –
its place in history
11. It influences, persuades, motivates, inspires others
12. It enlightens others
13. It educates
14. It conveys emotions, strengths – weaknesses
15. It motivates and is a catalyst for change
16. It uplifts the spirit
17. It praises and expresses appreciation
18. Writing honors our spiritual world and God
19. It is an on-going process – it never ends!
20. Writing should never be used as propaganda – to fool others!
Furthermore, writing is an essential tool used by all businesses; to market their products, services, expertise, in the public or private sector. Good writing can make or break a business. It can pave the way to staying in business, and to making a profit A business literally thrives on good writing. It can even measure its success of the written word through:
· Brochures
· Annual reports
· Stockholders' interests
· Sales materials/promotions
· Newsletters
· Websites
· Blogs
· HowTo Manuals
· Training Materials
· Business Cards
· Press Releases
· White Papers
To be sure, the above is not meant to be all-inclusive but it certainly dignifies and illustrates the beauty and value of what words can achieve.
Lately, I've been doing a lot of editing for clients and it occurred to me that anyone can write but it takes a discerning mind to have a real impact on others. This is especially true if you are preparing to give a speech to a formidable, paying audience. Here is where I feel I have the best of both worlds since I both speak and write to diverse audiences. Hence, I leave you with some thoughts to ponder. Maybe you'll discover what writing means to you. Maybe you'll decide to try it as a career!
I feel a good writer and speaker have much in common. They both need to have and master some fundamental skills: Following are some skills worth cultivating and using..
Essential Skills:
· Sincerity
· Honesty
· Perceptiveness
· Ability to see both sides of any situation
· Dedication
· Enthusiasm
· High energy
· Ability to get all the facts, especially in reporting
· Be unbiased yet be willing to tell both sides of a situation
· Patience with yourself and others
· Be prepared, punctual, professional
· Willingness to rewrite if the client wants it
Lastly, I think being a good writer means never doubting your skills and abilities, at least not to the point of sabotaging yourself. It also means knowing when to stop! Knowing when enough rewriting and editing are enough! Journaling has helped me to see my patterns, what habits are working for, or against me, and where I can be proud of taking action to achieve my goals. Life is indeed a journey and so is writing!
Ah yes, writing is a wonderful way of life. That's why I came up with the motto: "Words are the poetry of the soul! They are as unique as your fingerprints. You owe it to yourself to leave the finest imprint!" .
Shirley M. Carolan, ATM
Speaker/Writer/Coach
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
Carolcom@qwestinternet.net
www.shirleycarolan.com
http://smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright © 2006 by Shirley Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any portion of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at carolcom@qwestinternet.net.
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