The Bart Factor

  No matter what you create, blogs, songs, screenplays, television, comedy; whatever it is, from time to time we feel like we’ve hit the wall. But have we really got writer's block? Today when I sat down to write I had no idea what I was going to write about. Because of this, I chose the subject of writer’s block. I often say to my drum students “Inspiration is everywhere” and it truly is. If you’re a writer and you need inspiration on what to write about, all you need to do is a quick Google or YouTube search on the subject matter you wish to write about, and BOOM; an endless supply of inspiration. That being said I also tell my students, that inspiration will only get you so far. Determination will get you where you want to be. Now don’t get me wrong there are times when I don’t feel creative or feel like writing. So at those times, I don’t. I simply don’t create anything. Other times I feel very creative but I don’t feel like doing the work. Is that writer’s block or am I just b

Navigating the intricate web of relationships that intertwine in both my professional and personal life has been a journey filled with lessons, some learned the hard way. As a spouse, drum instructor, band member, and mentor, I interact with a diverse array of individuals on a daily and weekly basis, each with their unique personalities, desires, and needs. Through these experiences, I’ve gained valuable insights into the art of dealing with people and maintaining healthy relationships without losing sight of myself. In my personal life, particularly in my marriage, I’ve discovered that understanding and respecting the needs of others is paramount to building strong, lasting connections. It’s easy to fall into the trap of assuming that everyone wants or needs the same things, but the reality is far more involved. Each person brings their history, preferences, and values to the table, and recognizing these differences is essential for maintaining harmony and mutual respect. When I’m not

 Living with dyslexia has been a challenging and, at times, a truly crippling experience. As a person who has navigated the tumultuous waters of this learning difference, I can attest to the immense hurdles it presents. Yet, through unwavering determination, self-belief, a positive attitude, patience, and sheer hard work, I have triumphed over these obstacles to achieve the seemingly impossible dream of becoming a published writer. Dyslexia, a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects reading, writing, and spelling, can cast a long shadow over one’s academic and professional pursuits. From a young age, I struggled to grasp the intricacies of written language. Words seemed to dance on the page, elusive and taunting, making it a formidable challenge to decode and comprehend text. This struggle not only affected my academic performance but also took a toll on my self-esteem. The journey to becoming a writer was paved with countless moments of frustration and self-doubt. A simple Facebook p

 Addiction is a powerful force that can cast a shadow over families, perpetuating a cycle that spans generations. Breaking free from the clutches of addiction requires courage, self-reflection, and a commitment to making amends. In this article I’d like to explore the transformative journey of overcoming addiction, making restitution for past wrongs, and forging a path to redemption. It delves into the generational nature of alcoholism and the profound impact it can have on families. For many, addiction is more than a personal struggle; it’s a family legacy passed down through generations. In my own life, I witnessed the pervasive influence of alcoholism as my father, despite his tremendous success in other aspects of life, battled with alcohol throughout his entire existence. Alcoholism seemed almost “handed down,” an insidious inheritance that shaped our family dynamics and fueled a destructive cycle. Understanding the impact of addiction on my life required a deep dive into self-awa