Jim Vuksic's Blog
February 12, 2024
My Last Blog Post - 'Good-bye Goodreads'
My first blog post was published on November 18, 2013. This, the 198th. and last blog post, is being published today, February 12, 2024.
I wish to thank my 150 Goodreads followers. Your comments, opinions, and suggestions have been very helpful and very much appreciated.
I became a member of Goodreads in 2013 and have thoroughly enjoyed following and occasionally participating in the various discussion groups. Unfortunately, many of the discussion groups no longer have anything to do with literary-related subjects. They have evolved into never-ending, political and social debates. Perhaps arguments would be a more accurate description.
Rather than posting their personal opinion within a group and then reading the various opinions of other participants, many now post several messages a day, every day, ad infinitum, some of which include personal attacks and criticisms of those participants whose opinon differs from theirs.
Some members have posted no book ratings or reviews or even indicate that they have ever even read a book.
For the most part, I have enjoyed my time on Goodrreads, but lately, not so much. So the time has come to say goodbye. At 76 years of age, my time is too precious to waste. There are other intresting, worthwhile things to do, people to meet , and places to visit.
Goodbye Goodreads,
Jim Vuksic
I wish to thank my 150 Goodreads followers. Your comments, opinions, and suggestions have been very helpful and very much appreciated.
I became a member of Goodreads in 2013 and have thoroughly enjoyed following and occasionally participating in the various discussion groups. Unfortunately, many of the discussion groups no longer have anything to do with literary-related subjects. They have evolved into never-ending, political and social debates. Perhaps arguments would be a more accurate description.
Rather than posting their personal opinion within a group and then reading the various opinions of other participants, many now post several messages a day, every day, ad infinitum, some of which include personal attacks and criticisms of those participants whose opinon differs from theirs.
Some members have posted no book ratings or reviews or even indicate that they have ever even read a book.
For the most part, I have enjoyed my time on Goodrreads, but lately, not so much. So the time has come to say goodbye. At 76 years of age, my time is too precious to waste. There are other intresting, worthwhile things to do, people to meet , and places to visit.
Goodbye Goodreads,
Jim Vuksic
December 27, 2023
It's A Discussion, Not A Debate!
A few of my 149 Goodreads followers have commented upon the fact that I no longer parrticipate in Diccussions Groups nearly as often as I once did, so I decided to respond via my blog rather than within each group.
When I first joined Goodreads more than a decade ago, with few exceptions, the established Discussion Groups provided a valuable learning opportunity.
After reading the messages already posted, I would post my personal opinion regarding the subject, along with the reasons and logic which I believed supported the opinion.
More often than not, none of the other messages convinced me to reconsider my beliefs; however, occasionally others would provide information, along with the sources, that would convince me that my previous belief was invalid so my opinion changed accordingly. Such discussions were interesting, informative, and, as previously stated, an occasional valuable learning opportunity.
That has changed dramatically. All too often participants now are not satisfied with just posting their personal opinion regarding the topic and then seeing what others think. They do not appear able to accept any observation that does not agree with their own. Rather than posting just one or two messages, they post numerous comments, often for days, weeks, or even months. They have transformed the discussions into debates, or perhaps a more accurate term would be never-ending 'arguments'.
The above mentioned paticipants seem unable to avoid insulting, haranguing, and sometimes issuing personal challenges to those with whom they disagree.
So, I will continue to occasionally participate within a discussion if I feel it is constructive and informative, but not nearly as often as before.
When I first joined Goodreads more than a decade ago, with few exceptions, the established Discussion Groups provided a valuable learning opportunity.
After reading the messages already posted, I would post my personal opinion regarding the subject, along with the reasons and logic which I believed supported the opinion.
More often than not, none of the other messages convinced me to reconsider my beliefs; however, occasionally others would provide information, along with the sources, that would convince me that my previous belief was invalid so my opinion changed accordingly. Such discussions were interesting, informative, and, as previously stated, an occasional valuable learning opportunity.
That has changed dramatically. All too often participants now are not satisfied with just posting their personal opinion regarding the topic and then seeing what others think. They do not appear able to accept any observation that does not agree with their own. Rather than posting just one or two messages, they post numerous comments, often for days, weeks, or even months. They have transformed the discussions into debates, or perhaps a more accurate term would be never-ending 'arguments'.
The above mentioned paticipants seem unable to avoid insulting, haranguing, and sometimes issuing personal challenges to those with whom they disagree.
So, I will continue to occasionally participate within a discussion if I feel it is constructive and informative, but not nearly as often as before.
November 12, 2023
No One Wins or Loses a War
A verse, repeated often, within a very popular song when I was young went "War! What is it good for? Absolutely nothing!"
The Israelie/Palestinian (Hamas) war is being followed closely by national leaders and citizens world-wide as the death toll, irrational behavior, and destruction increases daily on both sides. Emotional outbursts are becoming extreme, especially among those with family and/or friends living within the war zones.
As a former U.S. Marine and Vietnam War veteran, I can testify that some military personnel serving on both sides occasionally exhibit teririble and unjustifiable behavior during combat. During my first couple of months of combat, I did the things I did because I had to. However, after awhile, I came to realize that I was doing the things I did because I wanted to. That is not a proud statement. It is an honest one.
I have posted this personal comment within various Goodreads discussion groups before, but I feel it is worth repeating: When the last shot is fired, peace treaties are signed, and a war is declared officially over, there are no winners. There are no losers, There are only survivors.
The Israelie/Palestinian (Hamas) war is being followed closely by national leaders and citizens world-wide as the death toll, irrational behavior, and destruction increases daily on both sides. Emotional outbursts are becoming extreme, especially among those with family and/or friends living within the war zones.
As a former U.S. Marine and Vietnam War veteran, I can testify that some military personnel serving on both sides occasionally exhibit teririble and unjustifiable behavior during combat. During my first couple of months of combat, I did the things I did because I had to. However, after awhile, I came to realize that I was doing the things I did because I wanted to. That is not a proud statement. It is an honest one.
I have posted this personal comment within various Goodreads discussion groups before, but I feel it is worth repeating: When the last shot is fired, peace treaties are signed, and a war is declared officially over, there are no winners. There are no losers, There are only survivors.
October 14, 2023
An Atheist's Poetic Explanation
Within a Goodreads discussion group in which the subject of religion or a Deity has come up, a member will occasionally question what led me to become an Atheist. I choose to not provide a detailed response. Instead, I hope that the following poem which I wrote will suffice. Each verse references an actual personal experience.
Hey God!
Hey God! Where do you go when a Mommy is crying because her baby is dying and the Daddy feels so low?
Where do you go? I would like to know.
Hey God! Where did you hide while the priests were molesting those little boys and the Pope just stood aside?
Where did you hide while they all lied?
Hey God! What do you say when a homeless man dies alone in the gutter because he has no place to stay?
What do you say, besides: "Let us pray!"?
Hey God! Where are you at when a man with a knife takes another man's life over a simple little spat?
Where are you at? I'd like to know that.
Hey God! Do you ever cry when a young man or woman marches off to war, knowing that they might die?
Do you ever cry, or at least say "Good-bye!"?
Well God, I've had my say; and we won't be talking any more, 'cause I don't ever pray.
But that's okay. I''ll be on my way.
God, I don't believe that you exist.
But, if you do, stay away from me 'cause I'll be really pissed!
Hey God!
Hey God! Where do you go when a Mommy is crying because her baby is dying and the Daddy feels so low?
Where do you go? I would like to know.
Hey God! Where did you hide while the priests were molesting those little boys and the Pope just stood aside?
Where did you hide while they all lied?
Hey God! What do you say when a homeless man dies alone in the gutter because he has no place to stay?
What do you say, besides: "Let us pray!"?
Hey God! Where are you at when a man with a knife takes another man's life over a simple little spat?
Where are you at? I'd like to know that.
Hey God! Do you ever cry when a young man or woman marches off to war, knowing that they might die?
Do you ever cry, or at least say "Good-bye!"?
Well God, I've had my say; and we won't be talking any more, 'cause I don't ever pray.
But that's okay. I''ll be on my way.
God, I don't believe that you exist.
But, if you do, stay away from me 'cause I'll be really pissed!
September 26, 2023
Experts With No Expertise
Throughout my life I have satisfied my curiosity regarding any subject through diligent research and listening to people who have actually experienced a situation I wished to learn about.
The above practice has resulted in three profound observations:
1 - The time, energy, and financial resources expended to learn are well worth the self-satisfaction and knowledge obtained.
2 - Most of my best ideas have come from others.
3- Many people who feel obligated to express their personal opinion upon every subject vociferously and redundantly talk a lot, but seldom listen. They also tend to be wrong more often than right.
The most difficult yet most rewarding life lesson I have learned during my 76 years of existence is that proving your self to be right is satisfying and rewarding, but a willingness to admit when you are wrong is even more so.
The above practice has resulted in three profound observations:
1 - The time, energy, and financial resources expended to learn are well worth the self-satisfaction and knowledge obtained.
2 - Most of my best ideas have come from others.
3- Many people who feel obligated to express their personal opinion upon every subject vociferously and redundantly talk a lot, but seldom listen. They also tend to be wrong more often than right.
The most difficult yet most rewarding life lesson I have learned during my 76 years of existence is that proving your self to be right is satisfying and rewarding, but a willingness to admit when you are wrong is even more so.
August 10, 2023
The Marriage Vow - Then and Now
The marriage vow used to say "Till death do we part!" Today, all too often, the marriage lasts until the first fight starts.
I am no expert on marriage; however, I was fortunate to be a partner in a wonderful 35-year marriage until my wife died. So, I offer the following advice to increase the chances of having a successful marriage until death do you part.
Your spouse is also your room mate. Room mates occasionally disagree, argue, and get on each other's nerves. When you experience those situations, consider the following advice.
Rather than shouting at your partner, giving them the silent treatment, or storming out the door, take a deep breath, calm down, and take the time to remember what it was that made you fall in love with your partner in the first place. What was it about them that made you want to marry them?
No two people agree upon everything every time. One must put aside their ego, or initial irritation when a disagreement occurs and simply agreee to disagree.
Compare the things you love about your partner to those that irritate you. I bet the good things will far outweigh the bad.
Heed the previous suggestions and I believe you and your partner will remain together until death do you part.
I am no expert on marriage; however, I was fortunate to be a partner in a wonderful 35-year marriage until my wife died. So, I offer the following advice to increase the chances of having a successful marriage until death do you part.
Your spouse is also your room mate. Room mates occasionally disagree, argue, and get on each other's nerves. When you experience those situations, consider the following advice.
Rather than shouting at your partner, giving them the silent treatment, or storming out the door, take a deep breath, calm down, and take the time to remember what it was that made you fall in love with your partner in the first place. What was it about them that made you want to marry them?
No two people agree upon everything every time. One must put aside their ego, or initial irritation when a disagreement occurs and simply agreee to disagree.
Compare the things you love about your partner to those that irritate you. I bet the good things will far outweigh the bad.
Heed the previous suggestions and I believe you and your partner will remain together until death do you part.
June 10, 2023
Intelligent Disourse Versus Emotional Tantrums
I have always enjoyed observing and occasionally participating in spirited debates. Considering opposing opinions is the key to learning. Many of my best ideas have come from others.
What I cannot tolerate are those who love to argue merely for the sake of arguing. Usually they rely upon exaggerated, misleading, and often totally false statements to challenge one's comment regarding almost any subject.
Some people like rainy weather, some do not. Neither is right or wrong, they merely have differing opinions regarding the same situation. What I cannot tolerate are those who, though soaking wet, blatently claim that it is not raining.
"It is better to remain silent and be thought a fool, than to open your mouth and remove all doubt."
George Eliot aka Mary Ann Evans (Author) 1819 - 1880
What I cannot tolerate are those who love to argue merely for the sake of arguing. Usually they rely upon exaggerated, misleading, and often totally false statements to challenge one's comment regarding almost any subject.
Some people like rainy weather, some do not. Neither is right or wrong, they merely have differing opinions regarding the same situation. What I cannot tolerate are those who, though soaking wet, blatently claim that it is not raining.
"It is better to remain silent and be thought a fool, than to open your mouth and remove all doubt."
George Eliot aka Mary Ann Evans (Author) 1819 - 1880
April 19, 2023
Determining Right from Wrong - Fact from Fiction
There are five major religions/spiritual philosophies in the world today: Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism. Each is absolutely certain, through prayer, meditation, and/or Divine Revelation, that the other four got it wrong.
There are more than 750 formally recognized demonitations and sects within Christianity alone. Each is absolutely certain, through prayer, meditation, and Divine Revelation that all the others got it wrong.
Most business courses include the study of statistical analysis. One of the basic tenets of that discipline declares that if each member within an organization or group firmly believes that all the others are wrong regarding any subject, it is likely that everyone is wrong.
Wanting something to be the truth does not make it true. Believing something to be reality does not make it real.
Would it not be better to accept the world that exists and strive to continuously improve it than to waste precious time and resouces seeking access to a non-existent alternative?
There are more than 750 formally recognized demonitations and sects within Christianity alone. Each is absolutely certain, through prayer, meditation, and Divine Revelation that all the others got it wrong.
Most business courses include the study of statistical analysis. One of the basic tenets of that discipline declares that if each member within an organization or group firmly believes that all the others are wrong regarding any subject, it is likely that everyone is wrong.
Wanting something to be the truth does not make it true. Believing something to be reality does not make it real.
Would it not be better to accept the world that exists and strive to continuously improve it than to waste precious time and resouces seeking access to a non-existent alternative?
March 10, 2023
'Goodreads' Members' Behavior That Impresses Me and That Which Does Not
I have been a Goodreads Member since November, 2013. I have learned a lot and been quite impressed by most of the comments and information provided by fellow members. I have also been quite irritated and turned-off by the behavior and comments exhibited by some other members.
Examples:
- Most discussion groups include topics specifically designated for authors to promote their novels, blogs, and accomplishments. I have been impressed by many of the contributions. However, some authors utilize almost every other topic, regardless of the subject matter it was created to expound upon, to flagrantly plug their work when it has nothing to do with the discussion.
- There are discussion group topics specifically designed to allow authors to request a review or rating. However, many novice authors constantly solicit reviews and often even blatantly violate Goodreads TOS by offering some sort of compensation (Gift Card - Free Book - Reciprocal Review) in exchange for a review - often within a discussion topic that has absolutely nothing to do with books.
- Some who claim to be professional writers often provide evidence to the contrary by including numerous mis-spelled words, poor grammar, improper punctuation, a typo, and jumbled paragraphs or sentence structure within their posts and promotions.
Granted, even well-established, talented writers occasionally make such mistakes; however, they tend to be the exception, rather than the rule.
Some may believe me to be too judgemental. However, Goodreads is a literary website, you would think authors and avid readers would be more conscientious regarding proper, well-established technical writing rules. Most are. Some are not.
Examples:
- Most discussion groups include topics specifically designated for authors to promote their novels, blogs, and accomplishments. I have been impressed by many of the contributions. However, some authors utilize almost every other topic, regardless of the subject matter it was created to expound upon, to flagrantly plug their work when it has nothing to do with the discussion.
- There are discussion group topics specifically designed to allow authors to request a review or rating. However, many novice authors constantly solicit reviews and often even blatantly violate Goodreads TOS by offering some sort of compensation (Gift Card - Free Book - Reciprocal Review) in exchange for a review - often within a discussion topic that has absolutely nothing to do with books.
- Some who claim to be professional writers often provide evidence to the contrary by including numerous mis-spelled words, poor grammar, improper punctuation, a typo, and jumbled paragraphs or sentence structure within their posts and promotions.
Granted, even well-established, talented writers occasionally make such mistakes; however, they tend to be the exception, rather than the rule.
Some may believe me to be too judgemental. However, Goodreads is a literary website, you would think authors and avid readers would be more conscientious regarding proper, well-established technical writing rules. Most are. Some are not.
January 24, 2023
Your Work Speaks for Itself. Don't Interrupt!
During my time as a Goodreads member, I have been very impressed by quite a few of my fellow avid readers and professional authors. That said; I have been quite irritated by members who expound upon every subject except books and unprofessional authors.
Why anyone would join a literary website to discuss everything except literature is beyond me, so I will not belabor the subject. I will, however, offer some unsolictied advice to those who claim to be a professional author, but consistently act unprofessionally.
A published author is technially a professional author, regardless of method of publication. However, many self-published authors often act unprofessionally.
Examples
1. Posting a rating/review of one's own work.
2. Offering compensation in exchange for a review (free book - cash - reciprocation - gift).
3.. Aggressively and constantly soliciting ratings and/or reviews.
4. Publishing work rife with technical errors: mis-spelling - poor grammar - improper punctuation - disjointed sentence/paragraph structure.
No book I have ever read, regardless of method of publication, was totally error-free; however, those written by a true professional contained very few errors.
Take the time to write, proofread, have others proofread, and rewrite as often as necessary. Obtain the services of a copy editor and conceptual editor, if possible.
Once your book is published, promote and market to gain public awareness. You have done your part. If a reader wishes to purchase your book they will. If they wish to then post a rating or review, they will. Your work speaks for itself. Don't interrupt.
Why anyone would join a literary website to discuss everything except literature is beyond me, so I will not belabor the subject. I will, however, offer some unsolictied advice to those who claim to be a professional author, but consistently act unprofessionally.
A published author is technially a professional author, regardless of method of publication. However, many self-published authors often act unprofessionally.
Examples
1. Posting a rating/review of one's own work.
2. Offering compensation in exchange for a review (free book - cash - reciprocation - gift).
3.. Aggressively and constantly soliciting ratings and/or reviews.
4. Publishing work rife with technical errors: mis-spelling - poor grammar - improper punctuation - disjointed sentence/paragraph structure.
No book I have ever read, regardless of method of publication, was totally error-free; however, those written by a true professional contained very few errors.
Take the time to write, proofread, have others proofread, and rewrite as often as necessary. Obtain the services of a copy editor and conceptual editor, if possible.
Once your book is published, promote and market to gain public awareness. You have done your part. If a reader wishes to purchase your book they will. If they wish to then post a rating or review, they will. Your work speaks for itself. Don't interrupt.
