My Two Mistresses
An old man's dilemma.38 total reviews
Comment from ShawnaGG44
I really liked how the writer played the reader at the begining of the story making the reader believe that the story was of a cheating man in reality the man was having a rough time with the reality of getting older and not being able to do the same things as his earlier years allowed really liked this!
reply by the author on 09-Nov-2024
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I really liked how the writer played the reader at the begining of the story making the reader believe that the story was of a cheating man in reality the man was having a rough time with the reality of getting older and not being able to do the same things as his earlier years allowed really liked this!
Comment Written 05-Nov-2024
reply by the author on 09-Nov-2024
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Thank you, Shawn. I'm so glad you enjoyed this piece. But my dilemma remains.
Peace, Lee
Comment from Sandra Stoner-Mitchell
Hi my very old friend, (well I'm old, so you must be too!) You describe the guitar like a sensuous woman, and I believe it is. Us women are like that. You described me beautifully! The older we are, the more exciting we get. You can't give up on either. The two are intimate mates, they belong together. The songs you will write to keep the strings happy, which in turn will bring out the best music, how can you separate them? And don't forget, the words you write for the music, are stories in themselves.
It was so nice to see your name in my messages, Lee. I've missed you and your stories. I wish I could hear you play on that luscious guitar. Love and hugs, my friend. Sandra xxx
reply by the author on 09-Nov-2024
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Hi my very old friend, (well I'm old, so you must be too!) You describe the guitar like a sensuous woman, and I believe it is. Us women are like that. You described me beautifully! The older we are, the more exciting we get. You can't give up on either. The two are intimate mates, they belong together. The songs you will write to keep the strings happy, which in turn will bring out the best music, how can you separate them? And don't forget, the words you write for the music, are stories in themselves.
It was so nice to see your name in my messages, Lee. I've missed you and your stories. I wish I could hear you play on that luscious guitar. Love and hugs, my friend. Sandra xxx
Comment Written 04-Nov-2024
reply by the author on 09-Nov-2024
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Ah, Sandra, I'm so sorry I haven't gotten a chance to read and review your latest work. Fear not, I'll catch up.
Yes, to me, a guitar has always been a lover. I see guitars the same way I see women. But women are even warmer, more sensual.
My guitar laid under my bed for twenty years while I explored my ability to face the blank page. A year ago I held her again. But my fingers were clumsy, uncoordinated. But she urged me on. Now, I'm a better guitarist than I was when put her away.
You get it, Sandra. The lure and allure of an instrument that will never give up all her secrets.
For now, I'll try to satisfy both mistresses. But my days are numbered.
Thanks so much, Sandra.
Peace, Lee
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I believe the guitar knew what you were capable of, but you needed to find her again to prove it to yourself. Don't worry about catching up with my megre efforts at writing, I'm just happy to be reading yours again. I've missed you. xxx
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Sandra, there is nothing meager about your writing. I'm happy to be back, and I vow to catch up. I've missed you, too.
Peace, Lee
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Oh dear, I've just noticed I left the A out of meagre!! But we do have our 're' with the 'r' first, while American English is 'er' 😉🥰Have a great Sunday, my friend. xxxx
Comment from Karen Cherry Threadgill
I did not really know you. I had just arrived when you left. I do remember the furor, the sadness, over your departure. You are loved here. As a compromise, you could write your songs here. Writing does not make you choose. You can write all kinds of things. I do. I used to be a singer, I can still carry a note, just not as far. Due to my ill health, I cannot stand ot sit for long, so, performing is not an option. Writing does not require a good body. You can do singing Spring and summer, and do writing fall and winter. M.O.O. My opinion only. Karen
reply by the author on 09-Nov-2024
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I did not really know you. I had just arrived when you left. I do remember the furor, the sadness, over your departure. You are loved here. As a compromise, you could write your songs here. Writing does not make you choose. You can write all kinds of things. I do. I used to be a singer, I can still carry a note, just not as far. Due to my ill health, I cannot stand ot sit for long, so, performing is not an option. Writing does not require a good body. You can do singing Spring and summer, and do writing fall and winter. M.O.O. My opinion only. Karen
Comment Written 04-Nov-2024
reply by the author on 09-Nov-2024
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Thank you, Karen. Oh, don't be fooled by the hype. I expect some were just as glad to be rid of me. But the bad penny always returns.
Sure, I could write songs, but this isn't a grand venue for that. Besides, songs are more limiting than the short stories I prefer to write.
Ultimately, this is a dilemma I need to work out for myself. Still, I'm grateful for your input.
Peace, Lee
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I will look forward to more. Karen
Comment from T B Botts
Hello Lee,
it sounds like you are the master of both crafts. A year ago or a little more I had to give up commercial fishing, something that was a part of me for about 45 years. I didn't enjoy every moment. There were times I was scared to death either of the weather or failure or not having the boat ready in time for the opening season, but when I look back, when the times were good, they were really, really good and I tend to remember those times and it causes me a great deal of grief that I gave it up.
I've never heard you play your guitar, but if you do it half as well as you write, I wouldn't give it up. I'm hoping you can find a compromise, giving yourself a certain amount of time for each wholly, and then when you need a break, pick up the other passion. In part, because of my own selfish desires, I don't want you to give up the writing. You have a wonderful skill that few possess. It would be equally tragic to give up your music. I fear that you would end up regretting that decision as well. I know about the time constraints, and perhaps the energy level waning, and of course it's your decision to make.
While I know that it's better to give than to receive, there is something to be said about being on the receiving end, whether it be reading a wonderful story, or listening to a well performed song. You're a smart guy, I believe you'll weigh all the pros and cons and come up with a decision that works for you.
Have a blessed evening my friend.
Tom
reply by the author on 09-Nov-2024
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Hello Lee,
it sounds like you are the master of both crafts. A year ago or a little more I had to give up commercial fishing, something that was a part of me for about 45 years. I didn't enjoy every moment. There were times I was scared to death either of the weather or failure or not having the boat ready in time for the opening season, but when I look back, when the times were good, they were really, really good and I tend to remember those times and it causes me a great deal of grief that I gave it up.
I've never heard you play your guitar, but if you do it half as well as you write, I wouldn't give it up. I'm hoping you can find a compromise, giving yourself a certain amount of time for each wholly, and then when you need a break, pick up the other passion. In part, because of my own selfish desires, I don't want you to give up the writing. You have a wonderful skill that few possess. It would be equally tragic to give up your music. I fear that you would end up regretting that decision as well. I know about the time constraints, and perhaps the energy level waning, and of course it's your decision to make.
While I know that it's better to give than to receive, there is something to be said about being on the receiving end, whether it be reading a wonderful story, or listening to a well performed song. You're a smart guy, I believe you'll weigh all the pros and cons and come up with a decision that works for you.
Have a blessed evening my friend.
Tom
Comment Written 04-Nov-2024
reply by the author on 09-Nov-2024
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Hey, Tom, it's been a while. Seems like no one ever truly leaves FS--except in a box. I appreciate your confidence in my ability to find a balance. I'm not so sure. It would be easier if I was a solo musician. But I mostly play in a trio. That means I have to commit a certain amount of my time to my mates. That impinges on my wish to write unimpeded. I see now that I'm the only one who deal with this.
I appreciate your input, and I empathize with your loss of the fishing business. We all lose parts of ourselves as we age. I guess that's part of the plan.
Thank you, Tom. I'll keep you posted.
Peace, Lee
Comment from DonandVicki
Since I cannot play the guitar, let alone sing or compose music, I would let the Guitar go and stay with writing or as you say the blank page, of which I am intimately familiar with.
reply by the author on 10-Nov-2024
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Since I cannot play the guitar, let alone sing or compose music, I would let the Guitar go and stay with writing or as you say the blank page, of which I am intimately familiar with.
Comment Written 03-Nov-2024
reply by the author on 10-Nov-2024
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Thanks so much, DonandVicki. It's been a while. I like your no nonsense advice. Most everyone else wants me to work out some kind compromise. Easier said than done.
Thanks again.
Peace, Lee
Comment from marilyn quillen
glad I don't have to make your decision but then again why not do each one for 6 months separately and see in that time which one you missed the most, And I think you already know! Good story , great writing, tough decision
reply by the author on 03-Nov-2024
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glad I don't have to make your decision but then again why not do each one for 6 months separately and see in that time which one you missed the most, And I think you already know! Good story , great writing, tough decision
Comment Written 03-Nov-2024
reply by the author on 03-Nov-2024
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Thank you, Marilyn for your wise suggestion. But I've already been wrestling with this conundrum for more than a year. When it comes to affairs of the heart, logic doesn't always apply. Thank you again, and I'll keep you posted.
Peace, Lee
Comment from forestport12
I see now. So you haven't made love to those empty pages in awhile. That explains the absence I noticed. Nothing worse than a jealous guitar. I took interest in this story in particular, because, I too love to play the guitar and write music, but for now I'm in bed with my stories. Enjoyed!
reply by the author on 10-Nov-2024
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I see now. So you haven't made love to those empty pages in awhile. That explains the absence I noticed. Nothing worse than a jealous guitar. I took interest in this story in particular, because, I too love to play the guitar and write music, but for now I'm in bed with my stories. Enjoyed!
Comment Written 03-Nov-2024
reply by the author on 10-Nov-2024
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Thanks so much. I get it. I had been writing for a bout twenty years while my guitar sat in it's case under my bed. When took a break from FS, I reclaimed my guitar and a couple of musician buddies from long ago. Unfortunately, being in a trio and writing stories is causing some conflict. I'll let you know what happens.
Thanks again, Stan.
Peace, Lee
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Please do...
Comment from Marilyn Hamilton
That is definitely a hard decision to be made. I find that my creative outlets go thru phases. There have been times when I didn't write for years because I had other creative interests going on. But my love of writing was still there and just waiting to be paid attention to again. Don't give up either one. Just give your most time to the one that currently calls to you. The other will patiently wait until you are ready for it again.
reply by the author on 10-Nov-2024
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That is definitely a hard decision to be made. I find that my creative outlets go thru phases. There have been times when I didn't write for years because I had other creative interests going on. But my love of writing was still there and just waiting to be paid attention to again. Don't give up either one. Just give your most time to the one that currently calls to you. The other will patiently wait until you are ready for it again.
Comment Written 03-Nov-2024
reply by the author on 10-Nov-2024
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That's good advice. Still, I don't know if I can compromise. Part of the allure of music is the ability to collaborate with a couple of old friends. That means I have to put them ahead of writing--it would not be fair to them otherwise.
I'll keep you posted.
Peace, Lee
Comment from lyenochka
Oh, Lee! I totally understand. I'm at the cusp of the same thing. During the pandemic lockdown this site was a blessing to be connected with real humans via the internet. But now in my new home and with a myriad of in person gatherings and yes, a lot more singing and music, it looks to hard to juggle both. But on the topic of voting - I will always vote per my conscience! And in this case both the conscience and the economy would be better off without the megalomaniac who wants to destroy democracy and set up his kingdom.
reply by the author on 03-Nov-2024
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Oh, Lee! I totally understand. I'm at the cusp of the same thing. During the pandemic lockdown this site was a blessing to be connected with real humans via the internet. But now in my new home and with a myriad of in person gatherings and yes, a lot more singing and music, it looks to hard to juggle both. But on the topic of voting - I will always vote per my conscience! And in this case both the conscience and the economy would be better off without the megalomaniac who wants to destroy democracy and set up his kingdom.
Comment Written 03-Nov-2024
reply by the author on 03-Nov-2024
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Thank you, Helen. It seems I stuck a chord with several people on this site. I should have anticipated it. People with a creative bent often have more than one outlet. I'll bet could DaVinci could play a mean mouth harp if such a existed in his time.
Life is always a juggling act. Between family, career, education, civic responsibilities and the like, juggling is a necessary skill. I have no idea why I'm surprised that at 73 I'm still juggling.
I think I mistook retirement for Heaven. Now, I'm wondering if Heaven really is Heaven. What if I get there and I still have to make decisions? Should I play a harp, or a lyre? I'm not too worried about that. Heaven and me aren't likely to meet.
As for voting, I'm on your side.
Thanks again, Helen.
Peace, Lee
Oh, did you hear some miscreant actually stole Helen-the-Horse from ex-deputy Roy Sturdy? That's what I hear. The story isn't out yet, but I'm guessing it'll be a doozy.
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I'm looking forward to that story, Lee! Yes, you're right about the juggling thing. But as to Heaven, you're quite mistaken. I am looking forward to seeing you there and it's much closer than we think. (not death, just the spiritual reality around us). And Dean is having fun writing scary poems to the delight of angels. It's not the boring place that Huck Finn was told. There we will be able to juggle a hundred things and keep improving...
Comment from karenina
Ah, Lee...
These are not two mistresses, they are your lifeblood, running through your veins. Both are as much a part of you as your left hand and your right.
You are so blessed to have joy, talent, and an incredible ability to touch others with your guitar and pen!
Do not, I plead with you, let go of your gifts. There is time for both in your life and ours.
Is that 15 Seals of Quality I see up above and to my right on your page? Hmmm. In 2016, Bob Dylan was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature ~~
His guitar, no doubt, was ecstatic. Play all the notes of your life, Lee, and don't ever feel you must forsake one "instrument" for the other.
Blessings!
Karenina
reply by the author on 03-Nov-2024
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Ah, Lee...
These are not two mistresses, they are your lifeblood, running through your veins. Both are as much a part of you as your left hand and your right.
You are so blessed to have joy, talent, and an incredible ability to touch others with your guitar and pen!
Do not, I plead with you, let go of your gifts. There is time for both in your life and ours.
Is that 15 Seals of Quality I see up above and to my right on your page? Hmmm. In 2016, Bob Dylan was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature ~~
His guitar, no doubt, was ecstatic. Play all the notes of your life, Lee, and don't ever feel you must forsake one "instrument" for the other.
Blessings!
Karenina
Comment Written 03-Nov-2024
reply by the author on 03-Nov-2024
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You are a wise woman, Karenina. True, there ought to be time enough for both of my passions. But I'm an odd duck. I'm like the horse who has to wear blinders in order to walk a straight line.
Be that as it may, your advice is correct. I need to find a way to accomodate my talents. I'll do my best. But I think I may be entering 'old dog/new tricks' territory.
Thanks again, Karenina.
Peace, Lee
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I am certain you will continue to inspire ...
