It’s that time of year again.

 

It’s that time of year again. The leaves have fallen into the delicious childhood memory of rustling and crisp mountains piled so high that you just had to jump into them. Leaves that are offered up to the Gods of Fire and Winter.

Nights in Massachusetts were long, dark and cold. I remember walking back from my friend’s house, past all those houses whose lights made the falling snow dance on its way down to the white blanket that squeaked beneath my feet as I trudged home.

I remember that time; the cold nips of snowflakes on my nose and cheeks, my breath exploding in puffs of steam, the distant headlights of a car piercing the woods, the soft sound of steel chains. I liked walking home at that time. I felt at one with the world.

I wondered about the lives in ‘those houses,’ how much like mine, how different. I would imagine them having everything I wanted plus what already I had and I’d walk steadily through the crunching snow with every hope and dream keeping me company. Everything was possible. Hope made all the difficulties of my youth seem manageable.

I look back on that and my hope has stayed with me. It has drawn me forward in my yearning, my seeking. It has picked me up when I thought I was all the way down. It has brought me a life full of learning, rich, succulent, and fullfilling and I am the richer for it.

This is our moment. There is no other. The remembered moment is only an echo heard through our desire and need.

This is our moment. Here, now as I write this. This is my life, right here, right now. This is my mantra. When I can remember this, everything else becomes insignificant and I only want to know this moment, and the next and the next, never lifting my eyes to an imagined horizon, but being here, on my own horizon.

In this moment, I wish all of us a healthy New Year and the blessing to realize that the death of this year is here for a reason…so that we may experience our love and oneness with each other.

A boy making his way home through night snow will always know that.

　

Pmg.

　

　

　

 

categories Christmas Message | | datetime December 16, 2009 2:27 am

141 Comments

  • By sknash, December 16, 2009 @ 4:40 am

    Paul,
    This is a lovely piece. I am from the northeast and am very familiar with the sounds of the chains, the snow falling as we walk home. Did you know, if you are still enough and quiet enough, you can hear snow fall. I wish you and your family the most Blessed Holiday season. And a New Year filled with hope, peace, love and joy. I enjoy your work immensely and am anxiously awaiting your first novel. From Starsky and Hutch, to Ladies Night, to The Mentalist and all that is in between, you still can make this gal’s toes tingle! Thanks for all you do! Susan

  • By Rach1970, December 16, 2009 @ 9:19 am

    Hi Paul and Pam :)

    Such lovely shared thoughts and thank you so much for sharing with us. I wish you both a Happy New Year and happy holidays with your family and friends. I hope that next year is a wonderful, happy, healthy, and prosperous 2010!!

    FYI…Love the new website look, the Art Gallery slideshow and the new blog. Way to go! I know how much hard work has been put into this! Thank you!

    Again have a wonderful holiday season! I’m counting down to Christmas staycation starting on Dec 20th. :) I gotta enjoy that one ALOT. lol

    Holiday hugs, Rach and family xox

  • By Dina, December 16, 2009 @ 10:11 am

    What a lovely memory.

    Thank you Paul for sharing it and your wise words, reminding us to stay focused on the present.

    Your words are beautiful and have helped me to become more confident and not to worry so much about things in the past that cannot be changed, but to move forward with grace and compassion.

    “I wondered about the lives in “those houses”..”. Ah…I have done that too as I walk my dog through our and new neighbourhoods. I am always thankful though for the good things that I have in my life.

    Wishing you a wondrous and fulfilling New Year.

    Cheers!,
    Dina

  • By lady800cc, December 16, 2009 @ 12:57 pm

    It is that time of year… “again”? Maybe on the calendar; but the experience is new and different because this moment has never happened before. My childhood memories in NY during this season of Christmas, Hanukkah and Peal Harbor Remembrance are rich and timeless and full. They always put a smile on my face. I reflect on the past for just a short time because I am so hopeful for the future and relish in the beauty of the present. Hey Paul, have a wonderful new experience this season, no matter how big or small. BTW, as I have re-kindled my love and habit of reading, I look forward to turning the pages of you labor of love ‘Chrystallia & The Source of Light’ Peace ;-)

  • By Diane, December 16, 2009 @ 4:12 pm

    Dear Paul
    Its that time of year again. It is so beautiful. When I read it, I closed my eyes and could imagine walking through the snow, hearing it crunch under my feet. Seeing my breath, all the lights, magical. It made me feel like a child again.
    Up to me being the age of 11 years old (thats when my dad died), I had the most wonderful childhood. My dad was one of nine children, my mum was one of nine children, at Christmas and New Year all my aunties and uncles and cousins (on my dad’s side) would get together at one of my aunties houses and we would party. I am going back to the late 50′s. Everyone brought food and drinks. Everyone had to do a party piece, sing, dance, read a poem or do a monolog. I was the baby of all the family, very spoilt and pampered by everyone.They always made me sing, I am so tone deaf, I could clear a room in seconds, they thought I was wonderful.
    Now that I am older, I still love walking in the snow at night, somehow the street lights make it magical.
    The last ten years haven’t been good for me, this time last year I had pneumonia, this year my husband had bowel cancer, major surgery and at the moment he is going through chemotherapy.
    I am under a lot of stress work wise and at home but your words made me smile, made me remember my childhood, gave me back hope, made me realise I have a choice, give in and go under or fight back. I am my mother’s daughter, I am not going under.
    Paul, thank you so much from my heart for giving me such wonderful memories and hope. We all have talent in our own way but I am glad that you have a talent with words.
    Have a wonderful christmas and new year and Hannukah.
    Love as always Diane XXX

  • By AngelinaHolyer, December 16, 2009 @ 6:20 pm

    Thank you for this message. It touched me deeply. Yes, it is true that the previous year is supposed to die…but thats the problem..does it really? And if it does…what does that teach us?…What does that mean?

  • By dsancetta, December 16, 2009 @ 8:25 pm

    I too remember those nights, but in New York. It was cold, crisp and and so quiet like it was all new again.

    This was all followed by the warmth of a cup of hot chocolate.

    Wishing everyone a Happy and very Healthy New Year!

    Dianne

  • By marly, December 17, 2009 @ 6:11 am

    “I remember that time; the cold nips of snowflakes on my nose and cheeks, my breath exploding in puffs of steam.”
    Remember the smell of the freshly fallen snow?
    How indeed all the sounds outside got a different quality.
    To me it was(and still is) magical….No matter how late at night, as soon as the first snow of the year began to fall, all the children in my neighborhood came outside and I was allowed to join them. In the yellow light of the streetlamps we played, our voices high and exited, and we made big plans for tomorrow when we would build giant snowmen.

    I’m a lot older now but still, on to this very day, I yearn for that first snowfall each year.
    Thank god my inner child has survived all the storms in my adult life and will continue to do so I hope.
    Being very lucky I work with young children which “allows” me to be able to play outside in the snow without being labeled as an absolute idiot!. I get to share their joy and I teach them how to build giant snowmen…..

    I’ve learned only recently how indescribable precious these short moments of pure happiness are.
    Life is an eternal “open university”…I’m not a religious kind of person but I’ve experienced that pain or/and grief can only victimize you if you let it. I’ve felt like a victim for years after a somewhat troublesome childhood until I found that I could actually use those negative experiences to benefit others(ánd myself at the same time).At first this wasn’t a conscious process at all but later on I started to realize how I was healing myself by supporting and understanding the children I worked with.
    My work is my life. Nothing gives me more joy than being with the children and to try to enrich their lives.

    Don’t get me wrong. I’m still not where I would want to be and I might never get “there” at all.
    Sometimes the past still haunts me and it’s not always easy to feel compassion for my fellow human beings and especially for myself!
    Indeed, we should move forward and share our experiences with those around us.
    That’s why I’m responding to your blog, Paul(is it ok to call you Paul?).
    It’s not a common thing for me to go public on the internet, but I felt like I had something to say/share.

    You are right, Paul, this is our moment, right here and right now!
    I should copy that and hang it on my wall!
    For years I’ve been living in either the past or in a non existing far away future.
    Life has(hopefully) finally taught me that the only time that truly matters is the here and now.
    It´s the only time we truly got and we should make the most of it.
    So one of these days I just might gather up enough courage to finally sit down and write the book I always wanted to write……
    To all of you out there I would like to say: enjoy the moment instead of hurrying along and do try to avoid too much planning ahead as well.
    Your life is truly here and now!

    Thank you so much for your inspiring words, Paul.
    Have a wonderful here and now!

    Marly

    P.s:Believe it or not….outside the first snow is falling down right now!

  • By fee, December 17, 2009 @ 6:38 am

    What lovely memories Paul. Those childhood memories of playing in the autumn leaves and the fascinating patterns that “Jack Frost” made on the window panes. Then watching the snowflakes drift down and hoping it would be deep enough to build a snowman. Snowball fights etc and sliding on the frosty pavements.
    As you say an echo of the past and what now seems to be a different life altogether when we look back.
    Yes, we must learn to live in the “now” which is something I find hard to do at times as I love to daydream about all manner of things.
    I would like also to add my wishes to you and everyone for a Peaceful and Happy New Year. May the New Year bring us all together in caring for each other and for our planet
    Hugs, Fee

  • By Nadine, December 17, 2009 @ 7:36 am

    Merveilleux message Paul , Noel est une fete de reve ,de joie et de voeux , mon voeux a moi est que les personnes que j’aime aient tout ce qu’ils desirent ! Quand a moi vous rencontrer un jour ? Pourquoi pas !
    Le debut de votre message me fait penser à mon enfance ” Je m’interrogeais aussi sur la vie a l’interieur des autres maisons , des cadeaux qu’ils auraient que je n’aurais pas , mes parents n’etaient pas bien riche mais nous avions quand meme de merveilleux Noel!!!!
    Je vous souhaite Paul a vous et votre famille un MAGNIFIQUE NOEL et une très heureuse NOUVELLE ANNEE Qu’elle vous apporte tout ce dont vous revez je ne me fais pas de soucis vous etes un homme Merveilleux , Bon avec son prochain je sais que Dieu ne peut qu’exaucer vos Voeux .
    Desolee je ne parle pas Anglais , je crois que vous apprenez le Francais Donc , a vous de traduire!!!!
    AMITIE
    Nadine

  • By marijo, December 17, 2009 @ 11:24 am

    Hi Pam and Paul. Today in Paris there were a lot of snow falling from the sky and the landscape became suddenly white as in the song White Christmas! So it reminds me that we do not have had snow during this time of year for a long time. Now I pray that it will stay a little bit of white land for the birthday of our Lord Jesus Christ! God bless you both and your respective families. Joyeux Noel et Bonne année 2010.

  • By hilly, December 17, 2009 @ 11:36 am

    Dear Paul
    What memories….mine are similar but I walked in London parks and made snowmen (if the snow came).

    I remember a cold nose and fingers as I walked round the pond feeding the ducks in my local park. Or regular visits to the statue of Peter Pan in Hyde Park. Warmer (because they were spent inside) memories of the 2 annual treats….whichever production of Peter Pan was on in London for my birthday (usually at the Scala Theatre…, little did I know I’d relive that one!) and the Nutcracker Suite on “Boxing Day”.

    I still have to give in to the temptation to “scuffle” through the fallen leaves on a cold winter evening when the sky smells of snow and bonfires; yes even here in Provence on a crisp bright winter night like tonight. The sky is clear, the stars are twinkling – the wind is blowing a wind chill factor to -3°C! – and I look out of my window and remember that this is the time of the festivals of lights – Chanukkah; Yule/Solstice and Christmas.
    We learn to live in the moment when a new light dawns in our hearts and spirits with every dawn, bringing us new ideas to explore, people to meet and life to be lived.
    Have a lovely ‘Chrismukkah” Paul; spent with the people who are dear to you. And walk forward to another year knowing that so many people are with you in spirit.

    “Oh let your little light shine,
    shine on the dazzling darkness
    that restores us in deep sleep
    Shine on what we throw away
    And what we keep” (Joni Mitchell 2007)

    Hilly

    PS I reckon your french is up to reading Nadine’s note but if it isn’t let me know!

  • By hilly, December 17, 2009 @ 11:39 am

    Paul I just want to tell you that I sat in wonderment in front of my computer and watched the slideshow long into last night. I love the quirky angles of some of the pictures; the ‘can you guess what this is’ element of some of the others – and the music was just perfect.
    If only I had a wall big enough…. ah well, as long as I have my computer I’m spoilt for choice.

  • By fee, December 18, 2009 @ 6:29 am

    Paul, just had to come back and recommend the book I have just finished reading as it tied in with what you have been talking about.
    It’s by Andrew Jackson and titled “The Book of Life” published in 99 by Gollancz
    It’s one man’s search for the wisdom of age and is a really fascinating read. He and his wife travelled the world talking to the oldest people they could find in many different countries and cultures.
    I really think you would enjoy reading it if you get a chance says she, tongue in cheek as I know you are extra busy at the moment.
    PS Like Hilly I too can’t resist scuffling through the fallen autumn leaves even at 62. I guess the child in us never really disappears. As I live in Australia it is summer here so I am loving the talk of snow. Have just had son on Skype showing us the snow outside where he is living at the moment in England. It’s the first time he has ever seen snow so he is all excited.

  • By PamT, December 21, 2009 @ 4:39 am

    Vivid images and insightful words from Paul, which have evidently struck a chord with some.

    For me, whenever the ‘here and now’ has been an uncomfortable place, I have sometimes been tempted to take refuge in nostalgia for elements of the past or even in some escapist version of today. In fact, refuge in anything but the reality of the existing moment.

    What I think I began to take on board a while ago is that growing awareness, and ultimately experiencing some degree of enduring contentment, does indeed begin with engaging and living in the ‘now’, as it truly exists. Not by dwelling on the past, not by pipe-dreaming way into the future and not in illusions. I don’t believe it’s something that can happen with the flick of a switch and, hey presto, the light is on. From time to time, I find myself falling back into old ways, but I’m working on it. Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? ;-)

    Hope is an essential ingredient. Amongst so many other things, it empowers us to believe we can make changes and can also deal with the challenges life throws at every single one of us; whether it’s illness, disability, rejection, loss, poverty, social isolation, abuse, disintegrating relationships or whatever. While some undoubtedly have more to cope with than others, no one life is perfect (much as it might sometimes be portrayed otherwise) and never will be. It’s something we all have in common as human beings. And the day hope is abandoned, it’s all over.

    @Marly. I was touched by your post, which particularly struck me as being from the heart. The way you’ve found it within yourself to reject the status of victim, but also use your life experiences in a giving role, is fantastic. As you say, it’s a work in progress. I can empathise with your reluctance to broadcast on the internet, but I’m glad you made an exception and shared your thoughts too.

    Peaceful and fun holidays to all and special thoughts for those who, for whatever reason, are apart from the ones they love or find themselves in a bad place. For some, this can be the loneliest time of the entire year.

  • By Paul M. Glaser, December 21, 2009 @ 11:53 am

    Thanks for the recommend. I’ll get it and thank God the child in all of us never disappears. He/she is the keeper of hope.

  • By Paul M. Glaser, December 21, 2009 @ 11:55 am

    Thank you. I had a lot of fun putting the slide show together. By the way, not all of the pics will be printed so large as there are a number of them that were taken with too little pixilation.
    Have a good holiday,

    pmg

  • By Paul M. Glaser, December 21, 2009 @ 12:11 pm

    It’s funny. I was having a conversation with somebody the other day and we came up with ‘Chrissmakka.’ . Interesting how at the winter solstice, the longest and darkest day of the year, all our celebrations are about light; bringing it back, reaffirming its eternity. How important it is for us to remember the light, re-attach to it when we are in darkness, find it in ourselves and ourselves in it.
    I’m just able to read Nadine’s letter.
    pmg.

  • By Paul M. Glaser, December 21, 2009 @ 12:17 pm

    All that ‘stuff,’ that conditioning from our childhood, all those difficult feelings are there to remind us of that part of us that is aware and conscious and has the capacity for compassion. That’s the purpose of fear and all its attendant cousins.

  • By Paul M. Glaser, December 21, 2009 @ 1:49 pm

    All that ’stuff,’ that conditioning from our childhood, all those difficult feelings are there to remind us of that part of us that is aware and conscious and has the capacity for compassion. That’s the purpose of fear and all its attendant cousins.

  • By Paul M. Glaser, December 21, 2009 @ 1:57 pm

    Your gift to the world and to yourself is the grace with which you honor your courage to embrace your life.

  • By Paul M. Glaser, December 21, 2009 @ 2:06 pm

    Word choice being so valuable. I sometimes wonder whether ‘hope’ is not at all about the future, but the experience of faith which is always in the present. Our minds would have us ‘hope for’ things, the ‘future,’ etc, however when we are present with all the pain and all the pleasure, when we are able to acknowledge and see ourselves on our journey, we have the opportunity to feel compassion for ourselves and, by extension others. Then we experience our one-ness with all, with everything and we feel our connection and find our hearts and love. That’s where we know hope.

  • By Paul M. Glaser, December 21, 2009 @ 2:06 pm

    You are in every one of those houses.

  • By Paul M. Glaser, December 21, 2009 @ 2:12 pm

    To listen to falling snow is such a beautiful meditation. Have you ever sat and just listened to everything around you, and then watched yourself listening? And when your mind interrupts with its incessant need to think, watch yourself thinking…and then dwell in your physical sensations, where and whatever they are and watch yourself doing that as well. It’s a kind of game. Add your awareness of your breathing and then literally watch your attention move from one sensation to another. Watch yourself be. Watch from that place of awareness, your consciousness…because that place of watching, that experience of being present is who you really are.

  • By Raffy, December 21, 2009 @ 2:12 pm

    Thank you, Paul, for this so vivid and meaningful gift from your heart. It also arouses so many emotions and memories.

    The snow….it was always a special event, it didn’t happen so often, maybe once or two a year, but not all years. As soon as there was a sign of “hope” I remember my nose attached to the window, trying to catch the first flake of happiness that the sky would drop off.
    Even if I can’t enjoy anymore my childhood silent garden, an oasis in a busy town, I’ll never forget those joyful emotions of my feet, my hands, my face sinking into that white soft blanket, yet however gentle I could be I felt a little sad sometimes while looking back at my “disaster”… and hoped the snowflakes would keep falling down and getting that magic sight as it was before. I’m not too changed after all. It seems that most of us keep the same moment of astonishment…that child inside us.
    It is snowing hard here and I couldn’t resist enjoying once again this moment, getting my feet on the snow before the human presence could change forever that beauty, those softer sounds, that smell. However joyful or sad I could be, it is a moment of my heart. Who knows, maybe we love it because it is able to break for a while that endless tangled thread of our thoughts… a rare moment of contemplation, of true presence.
    The Silence of the snow spreads through every cell and we feel all of ourselves to become one, and a part of the Universe, maybe that’s why we can enjoy that peace…and that hope…
    We know by experience that hope helps us go through so many moments and do the best we can towards ourselves and others…towards life. It is a deep part of our heat. I think it is like a “call” to believe, to accept, to see beyond…but also to move, to change, and at a certain point to stop and look into ourselves and focus on the only thing we really have, the present. When we “catch” the present even for a few seconds then every thing seems to converge and be there…and not be there anymore… and we just “are”. So hard though!
    We can breathe in every apparent end a beginning, see in the snow and cold that magic which shines within, that soft purity, walk from loneliness to aloneness, to oneness.
    This is a special time of the year, of the heart…so it is said at least.
    It seems we need these “special” times helping us “flourish” together and try to “tune” to that Silence whispering to us that yearning for beauty, unity… and for unconditional love, our door to the Universe, the only thing I think which makes us touch that infinite peace. Maybe we are here to hardly learn, experience and choose it, it only can re-member all the scattered parts of the Whole.
    “To seek and share the path”…. yes, how beautiful it is…the only true purpose in our earthly life, our true giving, when every passion, darkness, every light and pain, every joy finally become naked, become a means to that purpose…
    And yes, to find the true power of our mind, which allows us to see “what it is”, to change ourselves, and to reach the core of our being, our consciousness…the everything.

    Thank you, Paul, for your restless invitation to find out our “present”, its richness… our true being and our light and peace inside it. I really think it can save the humanity….

    A very bright and healthy New Year to all…and so much “here and now”…

    Raffy

    your pics are special…absolutely wonderful!

  • By Paul M. Glaser, December 21, 2009 @ 2:14 pm

    Merci, Nadine. Je comprend l’essence de votre mots. Merci.

  • By Nadine, December 21, 2009 @ 2:15 pm

    Vous avez reussi a lire mon commentaire ? je trouve celà tres bien ! Bravo ! je suis incapable de lire en Anglais !
    Merci pour avoir repondu a nos commentaires Paul ! Vous etes capable de faire un petit commentaire en Francais ?
    JOYEUX NOEL ! Amitie
    Nadine

  • By Nadine, December 21, 2009 @ 2:24 pm

    Merci Paul pour ce petit mot je suis flatte , vous venez de me faire un tres beau cadeau de Noel en me repondant Merci encore !
    A bientot…peut etre ?
    Nadine

  • By hilly, December 21, 2009 @ 2:54 pm

    try chrisyulekkah (one of my friends threw that at me today as it is Yule – any excuse for a chocolate covered marzipan log is OK with me!)

    your personal translator is always on call if you need her BTW

  • By marly, December 21, 2009 @ 3:15 pm

    Isn’t the internet a wonderful medium?!
    I sit here reading all these shared thoughts from(probably)all over the world.
    That one single post about “that time of year”has had the power to inspire so many people(including myself) to truly share their own,sometimes very personal, thoughts(ánd memories).This must give you,Paul,a great deal of pleasure.
    Keep up the good work!
    Marly

  • By sknash, December 22, 2009 @ 5:16 am

    Paul,
    I miss listening to snow. Living in Florida, well, that should tell you why. However, going to the beach can be just as moving. Tho when I go there’s 100s of folks there, listening to the surf, watching the rolling waves, you can get lost in them like you are the only person there. The way the wind changes its tone. Yes, listening is wonderful, and forces me to stop and just exist and be. I have been reading about the choices of words on these comments, “faith”, “hope” etc. I love those two words and they mean so much. And when I ventured into the world of writing for the third time, this time to complete something for the first time, I chose those words as my title “Faith, Hope, Love and Friends.” Four powerful words that have gotten me thru my trials in life. Four small words, but have so much impact for me. I hope you had a most Blessed Hanukkah and I wish you and your family a New Year filled with “Faith, Hope, Love and Friends.” Thanks for blessing my life. Susan

  • By PamT, December 22, 2009 @ 5:21 am

    It’s very thoughtful of you to have taken the time to leave some feedback, Paul. Thank you. I very much like your thoughts on meditation.

    I find your perspective on hope an interesting, albeit a challenging, one. But I’m confused. I think I can grasp the concept of hope’s role, as you describe it, in the experience of present ‘faith’. And I hope (!) that I’m aware of the import of compassion, first to ourselves, then to others – and the all encompassing connection that this nurtures.

    However, I run into trouble when I try to disconnect ‘hope’ from ‘future’. Because, if we don’t have hope that we can influence change, whether on a personal level or in a broader sense, does that not imply a passive acceptance of everything as it is – whether it’s skilful or unskilful? I understand what you say about remaining present with all that is pleasurable and painful in our ‘now’ experience, but if there is something that we believe needs to change or be developed, should we not have hope that we can accomplish or contribute to this? If we live fully in the moment, does that preclude any hope from the next moment on the horizon?

    I suppose I’m struggling to work out in my own mind what I see as some very delicate balances.

  • By marijo, December 22, 2009 @ 7:05 am

    Thank you for your comments Paul and congratulations! You are learning very fast to write in french and I know that our language is a difficult one. Have a very peaceful Christmas. Unfortunately the snow is soon going to disappear from the landscape in Paris! Too bad we will not have a white Christmas afterall. Take care! Marijo.

  • By Rach1970, December 22, 2009 @ 11:18 am

    Hi Paul
    How very thoughtful to respond to the good folks on here. Thank you for always showing kindness to those who support you, it’s very sweet and I appreciate it. I also really enjoyed what you wrote about your childhood memories with snow because it’s very wise and I LOVE snow!!*g*
    Have a wonderful holiday season with you and yours. I’m enjoying the holiday and still hoping for a White Christmas.*g* I’m in the area of Canada where it rarely snows.
    Hugs, Rachelle B

  • By Diane, December 22, 2009 @ 4:22 pm

    Hi Paul
    I live in the North of England, 40 minutes away from Manchester, I couldn’t get my car (sporty, low down at the front, front wheel drive) off the avenue I live on because of the snow on Monday and today. I had to go and get milk and bread and things, so I walked. I looked at the snow, where no-one else had walked and thought of you and looked around and then jumped all over the place, like a child, and then befitting my age (58) walked sedately where no-one else had walked with the biggest smile on my face you could imagine. With all that is going in my life as per my previous post, it was absolutely wonderfull, thank you. Love as always and forever, Diane XXXX

  • By helly19619, December 22, 2009 @ 8:21 pm

    My most pleasant memories are waking up in the middle of the night looking out the window and watching for snow. As a first grade teacher, one can only imagine the energy and excitement that my class and I feel when we wait and watch for snow during the school day. I love sharing this special time with my classes. Its very hard for a teacher to compete with snow so we share beautiful memories together. I work at a high risk school, so teaching the children about making snow forts and tubing down mountains gives them dreams that they look forward too. I love giving them hope and the snow just makes it more magical. Merry Christmas Paul and thank you for always making me reflect on the contributions that I have to give to others. Love you always and forever. Helen

  • By Jane, December 23, 2009 @ 3:57 am

    This year three young lads who were recently in my pastoral care have lost their lives. Co-incidently all ceremonial tributes to them have taken place surrounded in snow. Whilst their deaths could be the resounding memory linked to this, I can do nothing other than remember them in previous years, bouncing along throwing snow balls at each other, and anyone else who happened to cross their paths, as I chased after them, chuckling at how I would spend the whole next day defending their actions to angry neighbours.
    Every second offers the opportunity for new memories so I am glad to look back to times gone by and acknowledge what a joy it was to know these spirited lads. But like the snow their souls have now melted in to the expanse of existence and, when I ‘hear’ that silence as the new snow falls, I will know they are still throwing snowballs somewhere…………and no-one will be complaining.

  • By Peggy, December 23, 2009 @ 4:06 am

    Hello Paul,

    Thank you for your messages and the great slideshow !

    The effect of snow on people is amazing. It doesn’t snow very often in the part of France where I live. But last week, It snowed for three days! On Saturday, we had to walk to the station early in the morning with our children who had never seen so much snow. We walked for forty minutes in our quiet town with our silent 6-year old son who was looking around him with an amazed smile upon his face (we didn’t dare to disturb him !), and our 3-year old little boy, who kept bursting out of laughs… because he had snowflakes on his nose, because Dad looked like a snowman and Mum like a very old lady with her hair all white with snow !
    I realised it was another one of those moments when everything is just perfect, a very simple moment of happiness… a “blessed” moment… The train was two hours late, and nobody even thought about complaining because of the waiting :)

    Merry Christmas to you and your family, Paul.
    Peggy

  • By Terri, December 23, 2009 @ 1:38 pm

    Dear Paul, Your words bring back so many memories. Quiet ones. I lived in Cleveland, Ohio and experienced much “lake effect snow”. It just falls steady and long. But my memories of the cold crunching snow was early morning when I walked to school. Crunching snow, cold air, ice on the inside of my bedroom window! It was cold. I love the feelings your words bring. Please don’t stop writing. Wishing you “All the best” as you always wish us. Best of health and happiness in 2010. Terri

  • By Shannon, December 23, 2009 @ 11:21 pm

    It was a real pleasure to read your wonderful insights about this amazing time of year.

    So many lose sight of what this season is all about.. People rush around to buy presents and ultimately forget that the season is not about materialistic things, it’s about the joy of being with family and friends, and sharing this special time of year with them.

    Never losing one’s inner child is such an important thing.. never losing that sense of childlike wonder for the world and the magnificent things around you. For walking outside during the first snowfall of the year, gazing up into the falling powder and grinning with such a sense of childlike happiness and wonder gives you a feeling that no materialistic object ever could. Because at that moment in time, everything is right with the world. And that the true magic of the season.

  • By lady800cc, December 24, 2009 @ 1:00 am

    Hi Paul, so “Hope” expressed as an emotion of faith in the present that looks toward the future…. interesting and totally cool ;-)

    Would love to read you (or the wonderful folks here) blog about realizing and accepting imperfection… I hate to be wrong, and beat myself up when I am, or perform less than my ability. I don’t know, at 45 you would think I would be in full acceptance of my limitations, but I always believe there is a way around them to success. I won’t go on because I don’t want to hijack this blog… so….Chrissmakka! ;-)

  • By anne, December 24, 2009 @ 3:36 am

    Dear Paul Michael…
    Just a little message to wisch you a merry christmas and an happy new year…
    My english isn’t very good. I hope that you will understand me… I wisch the best for you and your family…
    J’ai vu que vous apprenez le français? Quelle chance, vous comprendrez peut-être mieux en français alors…
    Je vis en France et j’ai 2 jeunes enfants (David, 4ans et Nathan 2ans). Merci pour vos messages plein d’espoir. J’apprécie vraiment votre philosophie de la vie, quel plaisir de vous lire. Je pense que le plus important, c’est l’amour. Aimer les autres, c’est plus fort que d’être aimé (to love is more important that to be loved… (oh my God, sorry for my english, it’s terrific…lol)

    Paul, Je vous souhaite de bonnes fêtes, à bientôt
    Anne XXX

  • By moncanzuba, December 24, 2009 @ 8:48 am

    Dear Mr Glaser and Pam,

    I wish you all that a good heart can wish to another “human being of good will” and let you know as the humble spiritual warrior I become that my sword is at your service from now to the end of time. Blessings.
    Monica

  • By Nadine, December 24, 2009 @ 10:52 am

    Nous voila au 24 Decembre ! je suis triste mes parents ne seront pas avec nous ce soir , mon papa n’est pas en tres bonne sante mon souhait est que demain il soit mieux !
    JOYEUX NOEL a toutes et tous!!!!!!
    KISSES

  • By Raffy, December 24, 2009 @ 11:50 am

    Thanks for this insightful meditation about the difference between hope and faith. It made me deepen my perception…. only the first step!!
    I think that the only “place” where we can feel really connected to all is the “now”. It is within ourselves…so close, so far, it is so hard to catch it…for me at least.
    Maybe it is there that we can experience the difference between hope, as we usually think of it, and “faith”. Once there we don’t escape from the time, we don’t escape from the past and the future, rather we don’t “need” the time anymore, because we detach from any regrets and any desires.
    It is not an escape, as it could appear sometimes. But not being stuck anymore to the sources of our suffering, we can cultivate the fullness of our heart.
    We can feel our aspirations, but keeping ourselves in the “here and now” we don’t get stuck on the results, but only on the simple joy of being in the process. I think “faith” is the hope finally free from “attachment” and greed.

    Merry Christmas to all!!

  • By BeckyB, December 24, 2009 @ 3:01 pm

    Very lovely sentiments, Paul! It’s snowing a lot here, now, on Christmas Eve. Unfortunately,
    it’s not quiet, unless it’s the middle of the night. I live right near a major airport and I can hear the sounds of my neighbors with the snowblowers. My mother and I will be joining my sisters and their children and grandchildren later for dinner and presents. It’s sometimes a little of a let down once the holidays are over… but that’s just me.
    I haven’t had a chance to look at the re-formated web site, but I will do so soon! Happy Holidays!

  • By dsancetta, December 24, 2009 @ 8:14 pm

    May your Holiday Season be blessed with Peace, Love and Joy

    Sending you my heartfelt wishes with Joy that never ends.

    Wishing you a Happy Holiday and a Happy and Healthy New Year!

    Dianne

  • By Raffy, December 25, 2009 @ 2:29 am

    I think too that true hope, faith, comes when we feel one with all. Our pain and fear help us day by day slide into the one, experience our connection and love. We become able to accept anything we meet on our path, to let things be. Then hope is no longer the contrary of despair, as we usually experience it, and we can act on things starting from a state of deep acceptance…it is very different I think…

  • By barb, December 25, 2009 @ 5:30 am

    I loved your story. I have fond memories of snow in a small Germany town I lived in. I still believe in the magic of Christmas and the joy of giving to our fellow humans beings. I hope Paul and your family have great new year. We had some snow last week. It was nice to see falling snow. There is not much cold weather in Virginia. I think we should learn from the past to make a better future, so we would not repeat the mistake again. I hope for a better year because this year is bad.I did not let me down but made me a stronger person because of it.

  • By Christine, December 25, 2009 @ 9:52 am

    Hi Paul,
    It was lovely to read your memories of your childhood. We have had snow over here in the North East of England. It looks beautiful. Memories I think are so precious, I hope your Christmas day is filled with love, just thought I’d let you know you are in my thoughts, all the very best to you and your family. Love as Always.xx

  • By pulcino, December 25, 2009 @ 11:17 am

    Thank you for sharing your memories, Paul.
    May your 2010 be fantastic!
    Lots of love
    Maria xxx

  • By Diane, December 26, 2009 @ 6:36 am

    Merry christmas to all
    My grown up christmas list!!
    Peace to the world, be a friend to those with less than you and those in need, not just at Christmas time and spread the love we all have, maybe then it will be a better world.

    HAPPY NEW YEAR

    Love as always Paul

    Diane XX

  • By carlac7455, December 26, 2009 @ 1:49 pm

    Paul, What a beautiful and timely message for my life and that of everyone. The Faith and Hope of my own youth spent in snowy holiday seasons in the mountains of western Maryland have brought me through what many times seemed like unmanageable situations and difficulties in my own life. Your love and spirit is a testament to and an inspiration for the possibilities attainable if we but focus on living life to the fullest in this moment and all of those yet to come. I have no family left to speak of, and my divorce last year after 30 years in an extremely dysfunctional marriage has left me searching for the best in each and every day. I’ve been blessed beyond measure with both my emotional survival and amazing friends who’ve loved and supported me through the darkest of times and have ultimately become my “family.” This year marked my finding ME again, and my resolving to have a rich and full life. I’ll never again let the past cast a shadow over the life that I’m making for myself by the grace of God. It’s true that “the death of this year is here for a reason.” It’s my turning point; i.e. my own journey’s turning point. It’s my chance to experience the love and oneness we all share with each other. Please continue to share your incredible talent, compassion and inspiration. I admire and respect you so much for what you’ve survived and accomplished already and for the hope and possibilities you respresent. May you and those you hold dear have a healthy, happy and blessed New Year. Peace & love, Carla

  • By patricia, December 27, 2009 @ 3:19 am

    Dear Paul !
    I was very happy when I knew about your blog. I hope you know who I am. I wish you an happy New Year and all the best. Good health, joy…to find in yourself the power to be in peace with everyone.
    Did you get my book that I sent you ?
    Heart and soul.
    Patricia from France

    “Regarde le monde sans égoïsme. Quelque-soit la couleur de peau, la religion et la nationalité nous avons le même sang.”

  • By becky57, December 27, 2009 @ 12:16 pm

    Just having our first big snow, I’m reminded that cold weather brings with it warmth, hot chocolate and staying in while watching it snow! Sledding behind our house as children, we never worried where we’d end up, only that the trek back up the hill would be worth it in the end. That’s how I choose to look at another winter, another change of season, one year changing to the next. So many opportunities once you make the effort to put the tribulations behind you. All those sad thoughts make a path for new, positive ones and to watch my footsteps to see where I’ve been and to follow the angel’s as they lead me to the new.

    Take care and blessings of a new year.

    Becky

  • By maureen, December 27, 2009 @ 11:14 pm

    Paul,
    I have to say living in the Chicago you cant picture Christmas to be anything but white snow and cold…we went one year to Miami for Thanksgiving and we were actually swimming that day..it didnt feel at all like thanksgiving…so as I always complain how cold and wet it is here, it would be very hard to picture christmas somewhere warm.It would be nice that after the 1st of the year we would have 80 degree weather here …that would be my dream…white christmas then palm trees and sun…one could only hope. Hope you and your family had a wonderful Christmas …looking forward to 2010

    Happy Holidays
    Maureen

  • By S. Parry, December 27, 2009 @ 11:24 pm

    PMG, I read your post, and it saddened me. You seemed to be trying very hard to uncover some great meaning that would make your life worth while. I sincerely hope that you are not as lonely and disillusioned as your words indicate. Here’s hoping 2010 finds you a happier person and gives you peace of mind.

    I’m sorry you’re so unhappy.

    S. Parry

  • By Laertes, December 27, 2009 @ 11:41 pm

    Have to apologize. I read your post many times and I’m still not really sure I understand it. It starts off as a happy remembrance of winters long gone then goes in a completely different direction. I’m not sure how often you read these comments but maybe if you have a minute you could explain it to me. Maybe I’m a little old-fashioned in my thinking, but I always thought that the way to a healthy and happy life was to learn from the past, look to the future, and then make the most of the present. It sound to me like you’re afraid of the future. I don’t know…that’s what it seems like to me. Guess I kind of agree a little with the comment above me….So I hope whatever it is that frightens you is something that you will someday be able to face with the loving support of family and friends.

  • By Terri Nefarious, December 28, 2009 @ 12:49 am

    Mr. Glaser,
    I read this shared thought a few days ago, and I haven’t been really sure what to say. To be honest your post seems to be an unfinished thought, just barely scratching the surface, that hardly says anything about what you really think or who you really are. It’s odd to me, reading the other comments, seeing people who seem to be astounded by this post, when I feel that it’s just barely begun. It’s a nice little story, a few nice images, but what does it really SAY? I agree with some of the others who posted before me that you kind of fell short of what you were, perhaps, really meaning to say. Maybe you’re a bit hesitant to do so…? I really wish more could really be seen about what these words you’ve written really MEAN to you and what feelings are behind them, otherwise they’re just empty words for easily-pleased fans (which I, sadly, am not; I think less of fandoms and more about PEOPLE, their feelings, their lives, not what they think they should say to those who are looking to them to uphold some celebrity/social standard).
    Just throwing it out there that I took “Shared Thoughts” to mean “speak honestly and freely.”

    With HONEST care and good wishes,
    Terri

  • By Raffy, December 28, 2009 @ 9:51 am

    My hope is that we all will be able to get a different perception of our humanity, of this concept about happiness and fear.
    I think we shouldn’t fear to feel afraid, or unhappy… but we ourselves and the world in which we live constantly press us to find an “escape”, which then often vanishes, because all is impermanent, even some kinds of feelings we call “happiness”, and we experience it, day by day.
    I think the energy we spend to get us convinced of being happy, or to judge and abhor unhappiness and fear in our lives and to satisfy that need we feel to see the same in others’could be better used to recognize and feel compassion for our human feelings, to realize that they are always there even when we try to cover them with our moments of “pleasure”. However hard it is not to refuse our pain, it can be our “fuel” towards true peace. There should be true joy there, where the opposites, as we perceive them, don’t exist anymore, and we can feel connected to the Universe.
    In my opinion the Paul’s message is very meaningful, not only to “easily-pleased fans”… and especially to people who have had the luck to follow his meditations over the years, meditations that help “catch” even better the richness and profundity of his feelings and words.

    Raffy

  • By Paul M. Glaser, December 28, 2009 @ 10:18 am

    T Nefarious…
    Aren’t all thoughts unfinished? This is my own glimpse of a moment from my youth. It recalls feelings and shares my perspective of that time in my life when things looked so clear and definite. For me, it carries much of the feeling that the end of the year brings.

    If I may, what I get from your words is a different, yet not unusual reaction to celebrity. That’s okay, I don’t care for celebrity myself.

    As for what my words ‘say’ or ‘mean,’ I can only hold up a mirror. If you see a part of yourself there, then I’ve at least communicated something. Have a good New Year. Pmg.

  • By Paul M. Glaser, December 28, 2009 @ 10:31 am

    Funny that you should focus on ‘fear.’ I prefer to think that instead of going in ‘another direction,’ the poem goes deeper. It honors ‘alone-ness’ in the face of our fear and yearning. It speaks to our desire to belong to something greater than our alone-ness.
    And yes, it acknowledges fear as a necessary part of our lives. However, I I am of the belief that fear is not a bad thing. On the contrary, it is in our lives for a reason, it has a purpose. When we experience and can acknowledge our fear, we then have the opportunity to choose to acknowledge our courage for our human journey wherein our seemingly irreconcilable and conflict between our animal self that knows it has no power over our mortality and our mind/ego that cannot accept this fearful predicament creates our pain. We discover that we have the choice to find compassion for ourselves in our struggle and by extension, for others. Ergo…fear is in our lives to help us find our hearts, our capacity to love.

    I hope this is of some help. pmg

  • By Paul M. Glaser, December 28, 2009 @ 11:05 am

    Have to apologize. I read your post many times and I’m still not really sure I understand it. It starts off as a happy remembrance of winters long gone then goes in a completely different direction. I’m not sure how often you read these comments but maybe if you have a minute you could explain it to me. Maybe I’m a little old-fashioned in my thinking, but I always thought that the way to a healthy and happy life was to learn from the past, look to the future, and then make the most of the present. It sound to me like you’re afraid of the future. I don’t know…that’s what it seems like to me. Guess I kind of agree a little with the comment above me….So I hope whatever it is that frightens you is something that you will someday be able to face with the loving support of family and friends.

    I just wrote a rather long reply and hit the wrong key. Maybe it got to you, maybe it didn’t. In short, it is possible that you have looked into a bit of mirror here and seen something of yourself.

    There is a purpose for fear in our lives. We have been taught otherwise and our egos would have it otherwise. When we can acknowledge our fear of being powerless in the face of mortality, in our fear of being alone, then we have, as humans, the ability to see ourselves having those feelings just as we can you can see yourself right now reading this blog, just as you can see yourself listen, think, smell. This ‘place of seeing’ is our consciousness and our fear wakes us not only to that place, but to the opportunity to choose from that place to honor and have compassion for ourselves in our human journey,to love ourselves, and by extension, others.

    The purpose of fear in our life is to lead us to our hearts…our capacity to love. As much as our egos would have us avoid at all costs, even deny our fear, it is there, it is real…it is a gift.

    Wishing you the best in the New Year.

    pmg

  • By mechelle, December 28, 2009 @ 1:31 pm

    I’ve read the initial posting several times during this holiday season. I remembered snowflakes on my eyelashes, the quiet and the scent of snow. I recollected trudging through the snow with sled or sibling or both in tow, considering the people in the other houses.
    Winter is about darkness and light, death and rebirth. I think where there is extended darkness there is a natural, animal fear and a sort of ego driven fear that is not necessarily alleviated by candles and sparkly lights.
    I agree that fear can be helpful- nudging us toward closer examination, thoughtful decisions. Sometimes I get stuck in that fearful place and sometimes I just won’t go there- only looking at the sweetness and light.
    For me the most provocative comment was in a follow up- that we each lived in each of those houses. That really prodded me to examine my suppositions all those years ago and my suppositions of today.
    Stories, poems, parables. It is what each of us sees or feels when we peak into that mirror that determines the meaning(s) I think. What do you think, Paul? Others?

  • By marly, December 28, 2009 @ 1:34 pm

    Dear Paul,
    I find your concept about the purpose of fear in our lives interesting.
    A quick search on the internet about the meaning of fear tells me that very often fear is considered to be a natural but also a very negative part of our lives.We’re being told that we should fight and/or control fear in order to live our lives to the full.
    Instead of encouraging us to acknowledge our fear and use it for our own(and eachothers) benefit we’re being told that it’s something that should be cured right away,the sooner,the better!
    Embracing/facing my own fears isn’t easy at all but I’m trying(awareness is the first step,isn’t it?!)
    Discussing fear may lead to some controversy but that’s not a bad thing at all as far as I’m concerned.After all,this is a “shared thoughts”blog and as long as we,the participants of this blog,share our thoughts with respect and understanding towards each other this can be a opportunity for all of us to get to know ourselves a little better.
    I wish all of you a good and healthy 2010.
    Marly

  • By hilly, December 28, 2009 @ 2:29 pm

    Paul, I prefer a little old-fashioned thinking in this internet take-everything-for-its-surface-value world. I value understanding what a word means and not just grabbing what one writer recently called a ‘phantonym’ and using it incorrectly. Seems to me you expressed yourself well Paul; and seen in the context of other speeches and blogs you have offered over the years the musings on fear and hope to me seemed totally coherent.

    As for interpreting what you mean…

    The trouble is that when all we can see is the written word and we can’t hear the tone of voice – the gentle tones of nostalgia; the bite of irony – or see the visual cues of facial expressions; then all we have to go on is our understanding of the vocabulary. And although the basic meaning of the vocabulary is common to all speakers (or users)of a language, sometimes the personal understanding, influenced as it has to be by our own experience and emotional overlay to what we see and hear makes us ‘see’ things in a way that the writer didn’t not intend.

    As a translator I’ve found myself floundering to explain a simple idea without detracting from the style of the writer or unwittingly changing the reader’s understanding of what was said/written. Translating ‘facts’ is tough enough – working on fiction and poetry is almost impossible.
    I wonder if Raffy has thoughts on this?

    Oh good grief; reading that over I hope it makes sense. Well it made sense to me…and (as Shakespeare wrote)”therein lies the rub” (forget the play – probably misquoted it but heck Will had a way with words and where there’s a will there’s a way!)

  • By hilly, December 28, 2009 @ 2:31 pm

    in a way that the writer didn’t not intend

    rats…that should read ‘the writer did not intend’ – but I’m sure everyone understood that my fingers can’t keep up with my brain!

  • By Diane, December 28, 2009 @ 3:13 pm

    Paul, You have caused quite a stir. Good for you!! I don’t consider myself an unintelligent woman, if I was I wouldn’t be able to do the job I do. Having said that, I must be stupid or something because I don’t really get what some of the posts are saying at all. For me you words were beautiful, especially the second and third paragraphs, they made me remember my childhood, beautiful memories,memories of when I was happy,and I thank thank you for those, at a time when it feels feels like my world is imploding. For the first time in the 58 years that I have been on this earth, I spent christmas eve alone, while my husband spent it in A & E in the hospital. Yes I was alone, yes I was fearful, but I was fearful that they would cancel his chemotherapy, I just want it to end. I have never felt so alone in my life, our children live so far away, but more importantly to me, was the feeling of being helpless and not in control.
    How that fits into your words, god only knows? I don’t always agree with what your write and you stopped being a celebrity for me along time ago, but you are one very appealing man, with your beard, very sexy too! Have a wonderful New Year, say a prayer for me too. Love to you as always, Jake and your daughter
    Diane XXXX

  • By Nadine, December 28, 2009 @ 4:49 pm

    Chaque Noel de mon enfance il y avait de la neige , je me souviens de toutes ces batailles de boule de neige avec mes freres et soeurs , de ces bonhommes de neige que nous faisions .
    Je me demandais en regardant le ciel si ces flocons de neige qui tombaient à mes pieds n’etaient pas le doux duvet des anges ” Mais pourquoi ce duvet etait il froid en arrivant sur la terre ? La petite fille que j’etais n’a jamais connu la reponse ! la femme que je suis maintenant a compris , ce duvet si doux ne tombera sur la terre que lorsque celle ci trouvera la Paix le Bonheur et l’Amour !

    2009 nous quitte sur la pointe des pieds , 2010 pointe le bout de son nez timidement ! je vous souhaite a tous mes voeux les plus sinceres , que celle ci vous apporte PAIX , BONHEUR ET AMOUR !

  • By Rach1970, December 28, 2009 @ 4:57 pm

    Hi Paul,

    The memories were lovely and thank you again for sharing them. I think there is alot of knowledge and we can learn alot if we just listen. I thank you for treating everyone kindly and you really don’t have to explain yourself.
    I hope that your New Year’s is wonderful with family. I believe the New Year is a welcome beginning and happy 2010 to you and David.

    Hugs, Rach

  • By Nadine, December 28, 2009 @ 6:41 pm

    Merci Pammy ! beaucoup de bonheur pour cette nouvelle Annee ! Merci encore de nous mettre en relation avec Paul tu es une personne que je respecte et aime ! Merci d’etre mon AMIE !
    BISOUS !

  • By Nora, December 28, 2009 @ 9:00 pm

    Buenas Noches,estoy leyendo algunos comentarios y estan buenos, y muy interesantes, tratato de traducir tus palabras Paul y poner toda la atencion posible para comprender, porque el traductor “online” no es muy bueno y esacto, se dificulta, pero como tu dices no tengo miedo y sigo e insisto hasta entender el significado de cada palabra, yo pienso que no tengo que tener miedo y debo seguir intentando, todos somos seres humanos y no puedo hacer otra cosa mas que intentar comprender a otro ser humano, mas halla de nustros idiomas.
    Espero que me comprendan, entiendan lo que quiero decir,
    y para todos : UN AÑO SUEPER FELIZ PARA TODOS
    PARA TI PAUL, LO MEJOR DEL 2010
    Cariños
    Nora

  • By pulcino, December 29, 2009 @ 5:56 am

    Ma chère Nadine, ta histoire c’est trés belle. Jèspere que Paul comprenne.

    Dear Nadine your tale is very lovely. I hope Paul understand it.
    Happy 2010 to you all!
    Lots of love
    Maria xxx

  • By hilly, December 29, 2009 @ 6:18 am

    Je me demandais en regardant le ciel si ces flocons de neige qui tombaient à mes pieds n’etaient pas le doux duvet des anges ” Mais pourquoi ce duvet etait il froid en arrivant sur la terre ? La petite fille que j’etais n’a jamais connu la reponse ! la femme que je suis maintenant a compris , ce duvet si doux ne tombera sur la terre que lorsque celle ci trouvera la Paix le Bonheur et l’Amour !

    My friend Nadine’s words just have to be translated for those if you who may not be able to understand them (and please don’t trust an online translator!)

    I wondered if the big snowflakes that fell around my feet weren’t soft angel feathers; “but why are the feathers cold when they fall to earth?” The little girl that I was didn’t understand. But the woman I am now does. “these soft feathers fall to earth when Peace Happiness and Love are there too.”

    Maria is right – a truly beautiful story.

  • By hilly, December 29, 2009 @ 6:23 am

    Here’s hoping that 2010 will be great ride for everyone!

  • By fee, December 29, 2009 @ 7:31 am

    Hilly, thanks for translating Nadine’s lovely story. I agree with what Maria has said about it.
    Diane, I was so sorry to hear that your husband has taken a turn for the worse. Remember we are all here for you even if all we can offer is a cyber shoulder. Just wish there was something more that I could do.

    Hilly is correct in that it is very easy to misunderstand one another using the internet and the typed word. Not only the problem of not hearing the nuances of the other person’s voice and their facial body language but there is also the difference between nationalities. Different cultures place different meanings to words and that can sometimes cause problems.
    I for one love the idea that we can share our thoughts and feelings in this way so openly but still respect the other person’s viewpoint.

    Paul, I thank you for sharing your thoughts with us and I must admit that I no longer think of you as a “celebrity” but as another human being (albeit a very approachable and friendly one) trying to make sense of this world that we find ourselves living in.
    Your outlook has helped me in the past when I was struggling with what was happening in my life and helped me to rethink and re-evaluate. For that I thank you most sincerely.
    I agree fear is with all of us to some extent or another. I never thought of it that way before I must admit. The fear of not doing something correctly or more importantly not being loved or accepted. We all want to feel that we fit in with the folk around us and that we are wanted and needed.
    Staying in the moment can however be more difficult especially for a woman as we are always thinking “what needs to be done next”
    I have always loved the sea and found the sound of the waves to be my solace and refuge. To just sit there and watch, listen and absorb the smells, sounds etc. Sadly we have chosen to live up in the hills so have nearly an hours drive to the nearest beach!

    PS I had to smile when you admitted that you had written a long reply then hit the wrong key and lost it!! I am always doing that same thing!! Just ask Hilly!

  • By pulcino, December 29, 2009 @ 10:27 am

    “For the first time in the 58 years that I have been on this earth, I spent christmas eve alone, while my husband spent it in A & E in the hospital. Yes I was alone, yes I was fearful, but I was fearful that they would cancel his chemotherapy, I just want it to end. I have never felt so alone in my life, our children live so far away, but more importantly to me, was the feeling of being helpless and not in control.”
    OMG Diane, I’m so sorry to hear this news, it looked everything was going better before. I’m thinking of you both so much.
    Take care and lots of love
    Maria xxx

  • By Diane, December 29, 2009 @ 2:22 pm

    Fee,I am truly humbled. Through the love and admiration for this man that we all share, I have found the most amazing friends, women I have never met, who have been so supportive of me. I usually keep my feelings and emotions to myself, that was until I met you ladies. Thank you Fee for letting Hilly know, she has my email and sent me the most beautiful ecard. Words can’t express how I feel about you Fee, Hilly, Maria and Jo. Jo has been tremendous.
    My parents brought me up to be grateful for what I have because there are people worse off then me, god knows I know that, but sometimes it is so hard not to be selfish and think of yourself. I don’t usually do self pity. It was my first day back at work today and the number of colleagues who came to my office just to give me a hug and say they are there for me, was amazing. I am so lucky that people care. Christmas eve I felt so alone, I should have known I wasn’t.
    Terry has his next session of chemotherapy tomorrow, after that (if they do it) we have only four more to go. It has been the longest six months of my life, it will be eight by the time it has finished.
    With the cyber shoulders and the love, I know I will make it, I will find the strength, somehow. Thank you Paul for this blog, it has allowed me to thank some wonderful ladies, probably inadequately, but very heartfelt.
    THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR CARING XXX

  • By Terri Nefarious, December 29, 2009 @ 2:25 pm

    To Mr. Glaser,
    I’m still not sure I get it, but thanks for responding. Have a great week, and a Happy New Year.

    Sincerely,
    Terri.

    PS – By the way, I was born in Massachusetts too. :)

  • By hilly, December 29, 2009 @ 3:15 pm

    Good grief Fee we’ll embarrass the poor chap!

    Seriously though Paul, your sensible approach to life has been an inspiration to so many of us when we were faced with circumstances that seemed difficult or insurmountable. Staying in the moment is a challenge sometimes when hope intermingles with fear and drifts up ahead like a strange hybrid of the 3 ghosts of Christmas. That is when the temptation is to look back and say ‘if only’ rather than to look forward and say ‘that’s where I’m going’. Or to look back to a safe and secure moment and not want to let go and take the risk that will make it happen for us.
    Thank you Paul for reminding us that the most important thing is to savor the moment and make it ours. When we take hold of the moment we give ourselves the power to move forward and face whatever the next moment brings. For better or worse, we are prepared to deal with it because this moment, this instant in our being, is belongs to us and to no-one else.
    We can gaze at the lights in the windows as we pass the houses and imagine the lives there. Imagination brings us hope. Imagination can also bring fear. Hope and Fear need to balance one another; they are the twin horses pulling our chariot of life across the universe. Without them we are numb and unable to understand the moment we are in and the ones that are to come.

  • By fee, December 30, 2009 @ 4:36 am

    Huh? Hilly, I never said anything that would embarrass Paul! I agree with the rest of your post however even if I can’t express myself as well. Now you know why I am NOT a writer!!

    Diane, I am only too happy to be there for you when needed as I know you and Terry are going through a very tough time at the moment. Sending you a HUGE hug.
    Fee xxx

  • By marly, December 30, 2009 @ 11:23 am

    Dear bloggers out there,
    After reading most comments on this blog I’m in awe about the eloquent way some of you are able to express themselves in writing.
    As you may have gathered by now english is not my native language and therefore I find it quite hard to put my thoughts into the right words whilst commenting on the posts over here.
    I fully agree with Fee who wrote”… but there is also the difference between nationalities. Different cultures place different meanings to words and that can sometimes cause problems.
    I for one love the idea that we can share our thoughts and feelings in this way so openly but still respect the other person’s viewpoint.”
    I’ve been a writer since I was taught how to read and write.It’s second nature to me to put my most inner thoughts onto paper in order to clear my head.It helps me to get things into perspective.Doing this in a lanquage that is not my own is a challenge because I’m not always able to find the right words.
    I must admit that,after reading the often so eloguent comments on this blog,I feel a little bit insecure about posting here myself.
    But I like this concept of a “shared thoughts”blog too much to back off from here.
    So have a little patience with me and please don’t mind the grammar mistakes.It’s honestly not my intention to kill the english lanquage!
    Take care,
    Marly

  • By Christine, December 30, 2009 @ 12:33 pm

    Hi Paul, I don’t know if you will remember me, but I had the pleasure of meeting you in Sunderland.Another year is almost over and its with mixed emotions that I go into a New Year. I think I understand your point of view about living in the “now” It is a really positive attitude to have. I have personally yearned for the past, when the here and now has become too difficult or troublesome. After losing my son in 2006, I got into the habit of looking back way too much.It has taken me a while to realise that I was losing the ‘now’ by my yearning for the past. I am trying to live for the moment, to stay positive, and hope I am a better person for it. You have always been such an inspiration to me and so many other’s. I may not be as eloquent as you or some other people but I tried! Wishing you a very happy New Year, Love as Always xx

  • By Paul M. Glaser, December 30, 2009 @ 2:18 pm

    Yes and thank you.

  • By Nadine, December 30, 2009 @ 3:01 pm

    Merci Hilly pour avoir traduit mon ” Inspiration ” pour nos amis je suppose que Paul a reussi a le lire en Francais ! je renouvelle mes voeux pour cette nouvelle Annee 2010 à toutes et tous , merveilleuses soiree du 31 Decembre je vous embrasse tres fort!!!!!!

  • By mechelle, December 30, 2009 @ 3:02 pm

    Thank you all for this heartfelt, evocative end of year conversation. I am touched by the connections, the caring, the openness. My best thoughts and wishes to you and yours. May 2010 bring you many opportunities for joy and peace. Thanks again.

  • By Jane, December 30, 2009 @ 3:13 pm

    Don’t look too hard at words themselves. They are tied in the physical and only a shadow of, and guide towards, spiritual truth. Look beyond to the light behind the words and find contentment in your own understanding of peace.
    Wishing you all the best for 2010 and beyond.

  • By hilly, December 30, 2009 @ 3:59 pm

    Don’t look too hard at words themselves. They are tied in the physical and only a shadow of, and guide towards, spiritual truth.

    I don’t know about the rest of you but that sums it up perfectly for me!

    Thank you Paul for such a thought provoking blog…bet you didn’t expect it to produce so much discussion.
    Looking forward to the next time you feel ready to share your ideas with us.

    PS I’ve read all my Chrismukkah presents when can I order your book?

  • By Rach1970, December 30, 2009 @ 4:11 pm

    Hugs to you Christine! You wrote very well my friend!
    Happy New Year everyone! Looking forward to 2010 and the new books that will be available! :) Ready to shop!!*g*

  • By Christine, December 30, 2009 @ 5:17 pm

    Thank you Paul, and thank you Rachelle,its very kind of you to comment, Happy New Year from me too! xx

  • By sknash, December 30, 2009 @ 7:38 pm

    Paul,
    Wishing you and everyone here a most Blessed and Happy New Year and may 2010 be all that you want and expect it to be. I have enjoyed reading everyone’s comments and thank you Paul for taking the time to answer some of them. My friend, you can still make this 53-year-old gal’s toes tingle like you did 30 years ago!! Happy 2010 everyone!!

    Susan

  • By lady800cc, December 30, 2009 @ 11:01 pm

    To ‘pulcino’; I don’t know you, but you will be in my meditations for “Piece in the Midst of the Storm” (a song I wish I could tell you the writter).

    Random:
    Had fun with my kids in New Hope, Pa. Such a beautiful place to be any time of year. Glad I raised them to enjoy the corny free things in life.
    It takes everything I have to resist the urge to force my first year college student to translate the french for me ;-) but you know all I would get is “ohhhh mooooommmmm”. So that maybe a new bucket list item for myself.
    Looking forward to the new year and maybe more snow. My only resolutions?; internalize Malachi 3:10 and Haggai 1:6-7 and continue the path towards the goals I have set for myself. Also look forward to taking more western style horseback riding lessons ;-)
    Hi Paul and blog fam; I wish you all a blessed, safe and happy new year.

  • By marly, December 31, 2009 @ 7:06 am

    Dear Paul and all shared thoughts bloggers,

    Almost time to say goodbye to the old year.
    Let us try to make the best of the new year.
    Each of us undoubtedly has got his/her own demons to fight but we’ll get by,don’t we?!
    On this last day of the year I want to share one of my favorite song texts with you.
    I only know the dutch version sang by Liesbeth List,a wonderful dutch performer.
    I couldn’t find an english translation of this song text so I’ve tried to translate it myself.
    I really hope that you are able to look beyond the grammar/style mistakes in order to grasp the intention of this song.
    It’s my gift to you and I truly hope that these words will strenghten and support at least some of you on your journey in 2010.
    Love,
    Marly

    Love life

    Live like a child for the wind and for love
    and recognize the open look in the eyes of a stranger
    Dance with the moon and embrace the stars
    Follow your dreams on the rhythm of the seasons

    Love life when the wind storm growls and when spring arrives
    And don’t hide yourself when the rain sets in and the thunder cracks
    Sing your song aloud and take flied like a bird through the blue skies above
    Love live and don’t be afraid……..

    Pluck each piece of fruit that you see hanging from the day
    And recognize the smile on the lips of a stranger
    Make love to the sun and drown yourself in its rays
    and embrace it’s reflection in the clear water of the pond

    Love life when the wind storm growls and when spring arrives
    Don’t hide yourself when the rain sets in and the thunder cracks
    Sing your song aloud and fly like a bird through the blue skies above
    Love live and don’t be afraid……..

    Cry if you need to to because you’re chocking on your tears
    But disarm your grief with the same kind of abandonment
    as when you cry, you can rise from your ashes
    The happiness of the moment erases the past

    Love life when the storm wind growls and when spring arrives
    Don’t hide yourself when the rain sets in and the thunder cracks
    Sing your song out loud and take flied like a bird through the blue skies above
    Love live and don’t be afraid……..

    Love life with your eyes closed or in the full light
    Love whom you meet, hold on tight to love and don’t lose that love
    Love life in the grey night and when the morning smiles
    Love life and don’t be afraid…….don’t be afraid…..

    Text and music by
    Lionel Florence
    Pascal Obispo
    Han Kooreneef

  • By Diane, December 31, 2009 @ 7:25 am

    Marly
    Thank you for the gift, Love and life are very precious. We can’t change what has gone, tomorrow may never come, the only thing, the only constant thing is now, this moment and I am living everyday as a precious gift. Peace, love and happiness to everyone.
    Have a wonderful 2010
    Love
    Diane xxx

  • By Nora, December 31, 2009 @ 8:42 am

    Hola Paul, en este último dia del año 2009, sólo quiero hacer un pequeño deseo: puedes hacer que el mensaje de Navidad sea traducido al Español, para poder leerlo y comprenderlo?? me sentiria feliz y tu luz llegaria hasta estos lugares. Tengo el regalo de mi familia, pero este sería un regalo para mi muy especial, tu luz hizo que comprendiera que “miedo” esta dentro nuestro y tenemos que comprenderlo, asi lo hago dia a dia, tus mensajes son una enseñanza constante para mi, gracias, muchas gracias…
    comprendere si no puede ser mi pedido, no hay problema, te llevo en mi corazón siempre
    te quiere mucho… Nora (de Argentina)
    ______________________________________________

    Hello Paul, on the latter day of the year 2009, only I want to do a small desire: can you do that the message of Christmas is translated into the Spanish, to be able to read and understand(include) it it?? I would feel happy and your light would come up to these places. I have the gift of my family, but this it would be a gift for my very special one, your light did that he(she) was understanding(including) that “fear” this one inside ours and we have to understand(include) it, this way I do it day after day, your messages are a constant education for my, thank you, thank you very much…
    I will understand(include) if it cannot be my order(request), there is no problem, I take you in my heart always it(he,she) loves you very much… Nora (of Argentina)

  • By fee, December 31, 2009 @ 8:54 am

    Thank you Marly for those beautiful words and don’t worry your English is excellent.
    It’s the New Year here so
    HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone and every best wish for the coming year
    hugs, Fee xxx

  • By hilly, December 31, 2009 @ 3:31 pm

    Happy New Year to everyone (I’m nearly there!)
    May 2010 bring all you hope for. (and a couple of new books to read!)

  • By Nuts, December 31, 2009 @ 3:41 pm

    Happy New Year to everyone. I’ve got about 2 1/2 hrs to go. About to go to some friends to let in the new year.
    Take care everyone
    Deborah

  • By valerie, December 31, 2009 @ 4:04 pm

    I’m glad to be here on the blog and to have the chance to exchange with you.

    I appreciate the messages that you’ve posted.
    I admire you a lot. I like your philosophy of the life. I look forward to reading your book. I hope I can find it in France otherwise it means that I must improve considerably my English!!! (Lol)

    I wish you my best wishes for the new year which I wish you beautiful and filled of small happiness of the life

    Sorry for my English.

    God bless you and your family
    with all my affection
    Valerie

  • By valerie, December 31, 2009 @ 4:09 pm

    Happy new year to everyone
    Full of Happiness

  • By moncanzuba, December 31, 2009 @ 4:27 pm

    Dear Mr Glaser,

    As you say, finding your purpose in life and being able to share it is not only gratifying, but also a feeling that lifts your spirit in a way that words are not enough to express it. Personally I think there are two things more powerfull than any other force: to give and to forgive and both come from love. An when that love trandcens distances, religions, ethnics, and more, it becomes universal and when we become universals, our hearts beat as one.
    Therefore, my heart is with you and your beloved ones as well as with everyone else. Please, alow me to quote a a line from Roland Emmerich’s “2012″: – “we are all sons of the earth” and from that brotherhood and form the bottom of my heart I wish you, your beloved ones and everyone else a fresh new start, when we learn to live each day de most of it, giving, forgiving, loving and taking care of each others as much as we can.
    God bless you and your beloved ones, specialy to Liz, whose courage and kindness started all this wonderful move.

    With a profound love and respect.
    Monica (from Argentina)

  • By michaela804, December 31, 2009 @ 6:01 pm

    Here’s wishing you all the best for 2010.

  • By helly19619, December 31, 2009 @ 10:14 pm

    Oh for goodness sakes. As fans we all come to this Blog or any other celebrity blogs to revisit pleasant memories that these people have given to us. However, we have to remember that these people have lives, families, and memories just like the rest of us. Just like I say to the kids in my class, you get what you get and you dont throw a fit. We all have a choice to share or not share a piece of themselves. Stop dissecting people’s thoughts and be happy with what we get. Thanks Paul for making me reflect on both your thoughts and my pleasant memories that your career has given me. If you ever come to Washington State I will take you up to see Mt St. Helen’s there is lots of snow up there.

  • By monique, January 1, 2010 @ 11:27 am

    Dear Mr Glaser,

    Thanks to share your life’s journey.

    One year ago, I discovered your website (so beautiful, thanks and congratulations to all personns who work hard for this).
    The first time I visited it, I understood nothing (even if some pages are translated). My English was so bad. So I had two solutions : given up and never understand, or to learn english an to be able to read and understand. So I take the second solutions. And now I read and understand yours words. It’s a big pleasure. But I have more of work to write correctly English. (so sorry for my English).

    When I read your message, every word take a sense. You play with words and this reading…..with pleasure.

    I like your philosophy of life. Every message is a moment of reflection and questioning. Always go ahead, not look behind. Thank you Mr GLASER for all this.

    I’m looking forward to read your book. How long before the publication ? I hope that your book will be available on your website. I don’t believe that I’ll find it in France.

    I wish you a happy new year 2010, with a lot of hapiness for you, your family and your team which works on the website.

    I hope that you’ll still write us beautiful message.

    Kisses from France

    Monique

  • By Dianne, January 1, 2010 @ 8:47 pm

    I just want to wish everyone here a Happy, Healthy, Peaceful and Prosperous New Year.

    Dianne

  • By Marianne K, January 1, 2010 @ 9:26 pm

    I have not been on the site for awhile…..busy with stuff. Love the new site Paul and Pam!!! Paul,When you wrote about your boyhood experience wondering about the lives in “those houses”, it reminds me of my walking through cemeteries. Sometimes on my travels, I will wander into old cemeteries and read the names/dates on the numerous graves…..so many graves,almost on top of one another, representing lives ONCE lived. I wonder what their hopes and dreams were. I bet not too different from our own.Bottomline I suppose is giving love and being loved. I wonder what kinds of journeys their lives had traveled, how long or short….or does the length of the journey really matter.When I come upon the old graves,I am saddened as I realize that these lives are likely forgotten. I think’”Will anyone remember me?” My thoughts and the ones you wrote about so eloquently in your blog rattle me, giving me a kick in the a_ _ to wake up by living in the present – to go out NOW and help our brothers and sisters. We do not know what tomorrow brings. Our Christmas grace is still within us and we need to think more profoundly about our true identity as children of God.Let us share whatever gifts God has given us with each other.And Paul,thank you for sharing yours with us. Love ya,Marianne from PA/NJ

  • By xtexan86, January 2, 2010 @ 7:02 am

    Happy New Year Everyone!

    Just spent some time going through all the posts. It was interesting reading, and even when someone wasn’t totally convinced by another’s viewpoint, they were gracious enough to respect that opinion and its author.

    I was also very pleased to see Paul’s response to many of the posters. Certainly, people who have been in the public eye must covet their privacy as much as anyone, so ‘thank you’ PMG for sharing a bit of yourself on this blog.

    There was a comment you made that did get my attention. The statement that “I don’t care for celebrity myself.”

    If my facts are correct, you initially resented the notarity you had attained when ‘Starsky & Hutch’ ended. (As an aside, I’ve often wondered what a 5th season would’ve provided given both you and David were making significant headway in steering the series in a direction more compatable to your liking.) But when that very dark time began to shatter your life, your celebrity status helped bring much-needed public support and understanding for those affected by AIDS.

    So my big question would be, in light of all that’s happened in your life, what has being a ‘celebrity’ come to mean? Is it something like a two-edged sword? Brought you more happiness than sadness, or the other way around? I can only ask this from the point of view of someone who will never know, nor fully understand, all the implications of what being a celebrity is all about. I would think that from an actor’s perspective, it would represent an epitome of achieving one of the highest levels in that profession. Then again, it could also be regarded as providing the perfect example of ‘you can’t have your cake and eat it, too.’

    I feel you are not one that dwells on the past, but I know I’ve often thought how different my life would’ve been if just one decision I made had been changed. Does the same thought ever cross your mind?

    Whatever your position is on this, I’m certainly glad you were in the right place at the right time and helped bring a memorable character to life on the screen and into countless people’s hearts. I’m sure the sacrifices you made were many, but they certainly were not in vain.

    Peace and good wishes always to you and yours.

  • By Nadine, January 2, 2010 @ 3:44 pm

    Nous voila en 2010 ! Vous avez pris de nouvelles résolutions ? les miennes :

    Etre plus positive !
    Profiter de la vie ” A pleines dents ”

    Voila mes Amis a votre tour !

    KISSES
    Nadine

  • By pulcino, January 4, 2010 @ 1:23 pm

    Great Resolutions, Nadine!
    Lots of love Bisous
    Maria xxx

  • By hilly, January 4, 2010 @ 3:11 pm

    resolution…go forth in hope and overcome the fear.

  • By Terri Nefarious, January 4, 2010 @ 9:37 pm

    Tried to leave a comment about the newest entry but was not able to.

    Sometimes, I think it isn’t the fear of death/mortality that consumes us…but the fear of living.

  • By michaela804, January 4, 2010 @ 9:58 pm

    Hi again.

    It’s really weird. The blogsite won’t allow posts to the really interesting entry you made today. I guess it’s okay to write what I thought here. I’m hoping your friend finds what he is looking for. It’s a funny thing about finding your heart. Usually you know exactly where it is. What your really looking for is a way to get passed other things inside long enough to ADMIT what you want in your heart of hearts.

  • By Laertes, January 4, 2010 @ 10:35 pm

    PMG,

    I agree that there are definitely some problems with your other blog entry. Should be looked into.

    I think there’s a common idea out there that the one greatest fear is fear of the unknown–or perhaps I thought of it myself, I don’t remember. The biggest “primal” fear is just that. What is it that we fear about death? Isn’t it not knowing when it will happen, not knowing how it will feel (anticipating pain), and most of all, not knowing what will come after. If we knew exactly what would happen when we die, perhaps we would not be so afraid of it. If we knew what would happen to us when we reached the bottom of the ski slope, there would be no fear.

    In general, I think that fear is something that should not be gotten rid of, not because it somehow reaches our hearts, but because it is a tool of decision making and living life. It warns us. Fear makes one prepare for the future. If there’s danger, fear is what tells you to turn away and saves your life. That is the one thing I don’t really agree with you on in the blog entry. Fear isn’t romantic at all. CONQUERING fear, perhaps, is. Though that is a different matter all together.

  • By S. Parry, January 4, 2010 @ 10:54 pm

    Such an intense focus on fear! No matter what “age” a person is, the trick (I think) is to focus more on the thing that is important instead of why you’re afraid to let yourself believe you can have it.

  • By Raffy, January 5, 2010 @ 8:23 am

    “there’s another part of us that can choose to act, not in spite of our fear but in recognition of it”

    I think this would make a real difference. Instead we generally, however conscious of our fear, don’t accept it, and often we act only in order to eradicate this unpleasant feeling from our heart …maybe while “remembering” and longing for our state of “freedom” from fear we feel as spiritual beings, or most times instead because of the needs of our ego, refusing to feel out of control, refusing impermanence and change.
    But in this earthly life we will always find something of which to be afraid, be it fear of death or all is coming from it…it is our human nature. But it is also a life where the opposites create the whole. And where passions are our pure expression of love, of unity with the whole Universe, manifesting itself through us.
    As you said many times that effort to deny our fear can only build barriers, those barriers to our heart, and our love, between us. True love lives in our consciousness I think, in that part of us able to see and accept our fear.
    When we experience a common fear, something that overcomes us all at the same moment, for example a natural disaster affecting our lives, we feel what we are…despite the tragedy we experience the other side, our strong feeling of “oneness”, to be all the same, maybe an unknown or only dreamed feeling till that moment…a sudden light that can help awake our hearts. Yet most times it is just a moment, maybe a “need” for survival of our ego. However, even in this case, I think we can become aware of that long process, a lifetime process, leading us to “detach” from the way we feel our fear, just in the act of embracing it. Compassion for our weakness is a great step towards our capacity for love, love for ourselves and others, and for sure love is not that word we are so attracted to, or worse that feeling we think we already know, give and accept. I think we can find out what it is day by day, along our path to simply “being”, just walking hand in hand with our fears. Especially with fear of death, the one we “have” to deny within ourselves and collectively, even through some more manageable fears we apparently feel throughout our life. The more we hide it the more it is there, but till it is not accepted maybe we can’t really see “beyond” or learn what death itself really is… from that point of our consciousness, of our light…in the “now”.
    Thank you, Paul, for your brightening message.

    Raffy

  • By Christine, January 5, 2010 @ 9:39 am

    Hi Paul, Tried to leave a comment on ‘We are all love’ but it wouldn’t let me so I hope its ok to leave it here.
    I read with interest your thoughts on fear and love.I have often tried to push fear out of my mind,find ways to ‘take my mind off’ fear. I think to a certain degree we are as children conditioned that ‘fear’ is a bad thing something to be overcome, sometimes even seen as a weakness by others. I personally think that worry and fear are there to remind us that we are human. If one ever reaches a point in life where nothing worried or caused us fear would we then be capable of being compassionate and caring to other’s. We need a more caring and compassionate world. I have often wondered why me? yes you do wonder what have I done to deserve this? but then again why not me? I am an ordinary everyday person there’s nothing special about me not so special that bad things can’t happen to me! You hear it said that some of the most genuine, kind, compassionate people in this world are dealt such terrible blows in their life. Life does at times seem so unfair. Having said that problems and yes that awful fear does eventually make us stronger and hopefully better people. I feel I can always strive to be a better person every day. We need a more caring, compassionate world. Thank you Paul for your thoughts and your caring, you are as ever my inspiration. All the very best for this year and good luck with your books! Can’t wait to buy them. Love as always, Christine.xx

  • By Terri, January 5, 2010 @ 8:03 pm

    Hello Paul,
    Your words are food for thought and in my case they also bring back memories. Memories of when I faced mortality (my fears) in a more personal way. Being told I possibly had only two more years made me shake with fear, a fear of leaving the people I love. That kind of fear I found also makes you stronger and then more appreciative of the people in your life and the kindness shown to you. I then learned how easy it is to show love and kindness and understanding back, as it was shown to me. It is amazing how that fear teaches you so much. I’ve been blessed and was given much more time. I’m glad I still can share and love. I’m glad I can read and enjoy your thoughts and at times feel a similarity in them. Also, your wonderful snow memories are being renewed here. Nineteen inches measured flat on the lawn in three days,more to come after years of what seemed next to nothing. Last year when we spoke of the weather in the states I remember telling you there was nothing on the ground when I flew out.(And when I came home). What a difference a year makes! That’s why I thought of your writing again.I had to walk to a friend’s house today, who needed a little help and there was the familiar crunching! Love and Happiness, Terri

  • By melmel724, January 5, 2010 @ 11:47 pm

    You have such a lovely and wonderful way with words in telling of your life. You are blessed with the power to move people and have them understand even a simple country girl from Arkansas.
    Sharing of one self is a true gift.

  • By valerie, January 6, 2010 @ 1:28 pm

    Hello,
    In this beginning of year, I make you share a French poem which I like very much:

    “Je voudrais réinventer les mots.
    Je voudrais réinventer la vie.
    Je voudrais redire.
    Je voudrais refaire
    Et je voudrais que tout soit neuf.
    Que les aurores s’habillent de vent.
    Je voudrais que tes yeux brillent de larmes de joie.
    Je voudrais tout l’amour pour chacun.
    Je voudrais que chaque jour soit doux
    Comme est doux un dimanche d’enfant.
    Je voudrais…”

    Have a nice day
    Valerie

  • By hilly, January 8, 2010 @ 7:03 am

    LOL I just read this – because I’m snowed in (in Provence!)

  • By valerie, January 8, 2010 @ 12:54 pm

    Hi Hilly,
    I understand (lol)! To us in the West it was at the beginning of the week, but we like to share (lol)

  • By Nadine, January 9, 2010 @ 5:08 am

    Ce poème est magnifique Valérie ! merci de nous le faire partager !

  • By valerie, January 9, 2010 @ 11:33 am

    merci Nadine
    see you soon

  • By pulcino, January 9, 2010 @ 1:08 pm

    Absolument d’acord avec Nadine, ton poème est magnifique Valérie, compliments!
    Bisous
    Maria xxx

  • By hilly, January 13, 2010 @ 2:27 pm

    well I finally dug my car out yesterday!

    Snow like this doesn’t happen in Provence that often – if you want to see some photos of Avignon in the snow go here: (you’ll have to copy the link to your browsers)

    http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l181/Hilly_011/snow/

  • By Nadine, January 13, 2010 @ 4:42 pm

    Tu as de la chance ! pas de neige a Montpellier ! tes photos sont etonnantes ! Bisous!!!

  • By Paul M. Glaser, January 14, 2010 @ 1:34 am

    Merci….

  • By Nadine, January 14, 2010 @ 7:02 am

    Pam , PAUL ?
    Je suis ennuye de vous demande cela ! j’ai envoye un colis en decembre a la Fondation je voudrai savoir si ils l’avaient recu ?
    Je ne veux pas de ” Merci ” c’est ma facon a moi de participer ! Amitie .

  • By hilly, January 14, 2010 @ 11:04 am

    I can’t claim to have taken those photos BTW – they were sent to me by a friend.
    I put some photos of the snow round my house in the Fan Forum on this site.

  • By Nadine, January 15, 2010 @ 1:58 pm

    Je suis triste ! si triste pour toute cette population en Haiti , ces hommes , ces femmes et ses enfants j’ai decide de leur apporter mon aide en envoyant un cheque . Ils ont besoins de nous tous ! Bisous a tous!!!

  • By Josie, January 16, 2010 @ 2:33 am

    I agree, Lady800cc.
    I practical martial art since 11 years of age.
    We learn know youself, master youself, master youself and triumph.

    Josie xx

  • By patricia, January 16, 2010 @ 5:10 am

    Dear all the menbers !
    I’m organizing

  • By patricia, January 16, 2010 @ 5:14 am

    Dear menbers !
    I’m organizing a new humanitarian action to help HAITI ! You can give you support to ACF (Action against hunger) throught the website on actioncontrelafaim.org.
    Nadine tu as raison de faire un don pour Haïti ça les aidera. J’espère que Paul lira ce message et que les autres membres feront un geste.
    Kind regards
    Heart and soul.
    Patricia

  • By StripedTomato, January 18, 2010 @ 5:04 am

    I have to say, this particular blog certainly struck a chord with me. I often find it fascinating how even the most dirty and depressing of neighbourhoods can be transformed by snow – to the extent where the whole atmosphere changes completely. I grew up in a rough neighbourhood, the kind of place you would’nt stand around in after dark – but one memory I have of that place is one winter when the whole neighbourhood was covered in inches of lovely, pure white snow. Because it was so cold, there was nobody around on the streets after dark and I remember me and my brother going out into the street at midnight, larking around, throwing snowballs at each other – standing across the street from each other and trying to catch each other’s thrown efforts, making snow angels on the pavement outside the church that was across the street. It was amazing. We did all the things that we usually could’nt do because of all the bad people that usually hung around there. It was beautiful. Even today, me and my brother still reminisce about that night. Snow just makes everything seem so peaceful and clean, even in places where there is usually dirt and chaos.

    I think it brings out the child in all of us.

    As for the Haitian earthquake survivors, I hope that their suffering is not prolonged and that they are able to re-claim some kind of normal life pretty soon. From the pictures I’ve seen, it really was pretty bad. My heart goes out to them.

  • By Coelho Laurimar, January 19, 2010 @ 2:14 pm

    Olá. Gostaria de dizer que o admiro há mais de 30 anos.
    Beijos

    Laurimar from Brazil

  • By heidi, June 8, 2010 @ 12:50 am

    This is a beautiful memory for you to treasure!!! You are a lucky man to have experienced this.
    Just think many children have never seen snow because our winters are getting milder.

  • By JanetK, March 3, 2011 @ 12:22 am

    Hello Paul, Pam and Everyone,
    I was jus reading about what happened to Holly’s Mother. I became concerned as I read. I was and am so glad she is okay. I would have been terrified. G-d Forbid, something like that should such a thing like that to happen to my Mother. Hilly, you showed great restraint and resolve. I don’t know that I would have handled it so well. This of course does assure me of what I felt all along. Hilly, you are truly solid and have more confidence than you realize. I’m impressed. I hope you Mother is still okay. By sharing your storey it gave me a point to think about with my Mother.

    Our family is dealing with an issue with her. She has developed dementia – fairly early – and it’s scary – scary the time. Now, when she leaves her home for more than a quick visit or she has a “memory attack” for lack of another word. She had been visiting her Sister and Brother in another state a few months ago and had to come home quickly because she was having major fear issues. It’s scary for all of us. I try and talk with her often, a few times a day. Although we don’t talk for a long time during each call, calling a couple of time seems to help her stay “more even”. I think it helps her remember me better. My niece, Jamie, was visiting “Maw-Maw”, what she calls Mother, a few weeks ago. Mother couldn’t remember her name. She knew who she was but not her name. Jamie was shaken afterwards. I learned about it because she wrote about it to her friends – and the rest of us – by writing on Facebook. She needed support and comfort from those friends. Fortunately for her, she got it.

    I’m encouraging the other grandchildren to call Maw-Maw often but not for long times. It seems to work for her and me. Thus far, so good. Yet, I know this is only a temporary solution. Then we all move to a new level of accepting Mother and what is happening to her – and try to adjust as quickly as we can. We are all very frightened. I know it’s much worse for her. For better or worse, she expected this, but not now. Grandmother, her mother, developed Dementia also. Grandmother didn’t get it for 7-10 years later in life. Of course, she may have had it longer and we didn’t know.

    In any case, each day – each and every telephone call or visit together – is very precious. My Dad died 14 years ago. I miss him terribly. He was so ill, he didn’t want us around. I understood it. It just seems to have taken him from us so much sooner. So, with the help of this blog and all of you who write, I now try to stay as present as I can. To make calls to Mother, I now make a point to stay in touch with those who are so dear to me. We are not guaranteed another day – not even another minute. It certainly has my attention.

    Take care all. I wish each and every one good health and happiness.

    Shalom,

    JanetK

  • By hilly, March 4, 2011 @ 2:18 am

    Pam – still a few spams here to deal with …

  • By Pandra, May 14, 2011 @ 5:51 am

    I moved to San Diego from New Jersey and I don’t miss New Jersey at all-except for the leaves. What can I say-I love trees, and my favorite season was always autumn. San Diego does not have autumn. San Diego does not have seasons. This poetic reminder of how lovely autumn in New England was made me smile.

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