E.B. Sullivan's Blog
May 3, 2015
LYTE BYTES
If Maggots Repulse You
End Relationships with Nasty People
Imagine dining at your favorite restaurant. You’re enjoying your food when suddenly you see maggots squirming around in your plate. Feeling nauseous, you rush out the nearest door never to return.
If your boy/girlfriend shows you his/her maggots—a quick temper, controlling behaviors, shallow values, addictions, infidelity—do you get sick to your stomach and quickly end this relationship never to return?
The healthy answer is YES.
End Relationships with Nasty People
Imagine dining at your favorite restaurant. You’re enjoying your food when suddenly you see maggots squirming around in your plate. Feeling nauseous, you rush out the nearest door never to return.
If your boy/girlfriend shows you his/her maggots—a quick temper, controlling behaviors, shallow values, addictions, infidelity—do you get sick to your stomach and quickly end this relationship never to return?
The healthy answer is YES.
February 18, 2015
February 18th, 2015
There are always optionsEvery option has a consequence
August 5, 2013
LYTE BYTES
A slice of life is all it takes...
Taste one bite of the pie and you’ll know if you like it.
Observe a person interacting with strangers and you’ll glean the person’s true nature.
You don’t have to eat the whole pie to know what it tastes like. One bite will tell you if you like it or not.
Similarly, you don’t have to know every nuance of a person’s personality to know if you want to be friends. Most of us reveal our true natures when we have nothing to gain or lose by our behaviors, words, or deeds. Rather than listening to a person describe her/himself you’ll learn more about a person by observing the person interacting with strangers.
For example:
How does your new acquaintance speak to a waiter?
How does he speak to the clerk in the supermarket?
Does she become annoyed when a baby cries in a restaurant?
Does he offer to help a person struggling to carry groceries?
How does she react when something goes amiss?
Does he get easily frustrated with others?
What does she say under her breath?
What does he do when he doesn’t realize someone is watching?
Taste one bite of the pie and you’ll know if you like it.
Observe a person interacting with strangers and you’ll glean the person’s true nature.
You don’t have to eat the whole pie to know what it tastes like. One bite will tell you if you like it or not.
Similarly, you don’t have to know every nuance of a person’s personality to know if you want to be friends. Most of us reveal our true natures when we have nothing to gain or lose by our behaviors, words, or deeds. Rather than listening to a person describe her/himself you’ll learn more about a person by observing the person interacting with strangers.
For example:
How does your new acquaintance speak to a waiter?
How does he speak to the clerk in the supermarket?
Does she become annoyed when a baby cries in a restaurant?
Does he offer to help a person struggling to carry groceries?
How does she react when something goes amiss?
Does he get easily frustrated with others?
What does she say under her breath?
What does he do when he doesn’t realize someone is watching?
June 12, 2013
LYTE BYTES
The Question
:
Is Everyone Capable of Appreciating Beauty?
While many people consider you special, talented, and caring are there a few who you can’t please. No matter how bright you are, no matter how nice you are, no matter how accomplished you are, do certain people disrespect you? Do these individuals discount your efforts or belittle you at every turn?
Have you doubted yourself based on their negative opinions of you?
Have you asked yourself why you can’t gain their approval?
The Answer:
If I gingerly placed a priceless Rembrandt, Picasso, or Monet painting atop the
mud in a pigsty, what would the pigs do to it?
Is Everyone Capable of Appreciating Beauty?
While many people consider you special, talented, and caring are there a few who you can’t please. No matter how bright you are, no matter how nice you are, no matter how accomplished you are, do certain people disrespect you? Do these individuals discount your efforts or belittle you at every turn?
Have you doubted yourself based on their negative opinions of you?
Have you asked yourself why you can’t gain their approval?
The Answer:
If I gingerly placed a priceless Rembrandt, Picasso, or Monet painting atop the
mud in a pigsty, what would the pigs do to it?
June 2, 2013
LYTE BYTES
Keep It Simple
Keep It Delicious
How I write a story is similar to how I cook--I keep recipes simple.
My motto: Keep It Simple Keep It Delicious
Following is a favorite recipe for making pizza and writing a story.
Pizza (Story)
Toss dough (Explore idea, let it stretch to thin out fine points)
Form crust (Lay out rough draft setting parameters)
Spread sauce (Refine with research)
Sprinkle basil, oregano,& garlic (Insert unique touches, i.e. accents, visualizations, potent emotions)
Cover with cheese (Envelop with corrections by revising, revising, revising)
Drizzle oil (Splash of passion)
How I write a story is similar to how I cook--I keep recipes simple.
My motto: Keep It Simple Keep It Delicious
Following is a favorite recipe for making pizza and writing a story.
Pizza (Story)
Toss dough (Explore idea, let it stretch to thin out fine points)
Form crust (Lay out rough draft setting parameters)
Spread sauce (Refine with research)
Sprinkle basil, oregano,& garlic (Insert unique touches, i.e. accents, visualizations, potent emotions)
Cover with cheese (Envelop with corrections by revising, revising, revising)
Drizzle oil (Splash of passion)
May 2, 2013
LYTE BYTES
Love Comes From a Heavenly Place.
Therefore, love has its own lofty-language.
“Sticks and stones will break your bones, but names will never harm
you.” Regardless of what this quote says words can harm us, and probably have.
Hurled at us in anger, fear, or out of prejudice they can inflict injuries deep
and lasting. Like a barrage of sharp stones they can break through the surface
of our skin, make us bleed, and scare us for life. Akin to sand in a wet bathing
suit, nagging words can irritate and chafe. Negativity can rob a person of hope.
Silence can scream at us so loudly our insides cry out in pain. Belittling or
disparaging statements can diminish our self-esteem. Yelling can intimidate,
terrorize, and humiliate. Nasty comments, swear words, and taunting teasing can
erode away the foundation of close relationships. Insensitive verbalizations can
cause acute discomfort in the present and lead to future permanent
damage.
Once said, ugly, mean, or cruel words become
indelible. Saying, “I’m sorry,” neither removes the sting nor erases the
unpleasant memory. A profusion of compliments or gifts cannot eradicate any
unkindness. Although it’s important to speak from our hearts, it is of equal
importance to think with our heads before speaking. Since words have the
potential to devastate, damage, or destroy, we have a grave responsibility to
use them wisely. In addition, the way people hear us is the way people see us.
Our words act as self-portraits. They paint permanent images of who we are.
Furthermore, our words provide positive or negative role models for our children
to emulate.
Love comes from a heavenly
place. Therefore, it is no surprise love has its own lofty-language. This
universal language transcends culture. The language of love has the power to
promote goodness, peace, and unity in our homes. It’s the cornerstone of any
solid caring relationship and a necessary daily tool. In order to maintain and
foster the integrity of healthy loving interactions it’s imperative to speak
this angelic language fluently.
The following simple recipe can strengthen relationships:
Rice Pudding
(A dreamy way to communicate)
100 % stone free words
Sprinkle with comfort
Dash of compliments
Pinch of humor
Top with magical expressions
Whenever speaking to your loved ones use the
language of love 100% of the time. There is no place in these sacred
relationships for random thoughtless glibness. Nor is there room for the silent
treatment. This passive-aggressive isolating behavior can loudly condemn,
frighten, and/or alienate. Adoring words akin to warm nurturing blankets
provide coziness. Compliments boost morale. A liberal dose of humor makes home
life relaxed and easy. In addition, a light-hearted attitude can prevent or
diffuse arguments. Since our loved ones deserve to receive respect, shower them
with the tried and true magic words: please, thank you, and you’re welcome. By
consistently combining all of the above ingredients, you will really be cooking
with LOVE.
Therefore, love has its own lofty-language.
“Sticks and stones will break your bones, but names will never harm
you.” Regardless of what this quote says words can harm us, and probably have.
Hurled at us in anger, fear, or out of prejudice they can inflict injuries deep
and lasting. Like a barrage of sharp stones they can break through the surface
of our skin, make us bleed, and scare us for life. Akin to sand in a wet bathing
suit, nagging words can irritate and chafe. Negativity can rob a person of hope.
Silence can scream at us so loudly our insides cry out in pain. Belittling or
disparaging statements can diminish our self-esteem. Yelling can intimidate,
terrorize, and humiliate. Nasty comments, swear words, and taunting teasing can
erode away the foundation of close relationships. Insensitive verbalizations can
cause acute discomfort in the present and lead to future permanent
damage.
Once said, ugly, mean, or cruel words become
indelible. Saying, “I’m sorry,” neither removes the sting nor erases the
unpleasant memory. A profusion of compliments or gifts cannot eradicate any
unkindness. Although it’s important to speak from our hearts, it is of equal
importance to think with our heads before speaking. Since words have the
potential to devastate, damage, or destroy, we have a grave responsibility to
use them wisely. In addition, the way people hear us is the way people see us.
Our words act as self-portraits. They paint permanent images of who we are.
Furthermore, our words provide positive or negative role models for our children
to emulate.
Love comes from a heavenly
place. Therefore, it is no surprise love has its own lofty-language. This
universal language transcends culture. The language of love has the power to
promote goodness, peace, and unity in our homes. It’s the cornerstone of any
solid caring relationship and a necessary daily tool. In order to maintain and
foster the integrity of healthy loving interactions it’s imperative to speak
this angelic language fluently.
The following simple recipe can strengthen relationships:
Rice Pudding
(A dreamy way to communicate)
100 % stone free words
Sprinkle with comfort
Dash of compliments
Pinch of humor
Top with magical expressions
Whenever speaking to your loved ones use the
language of love 100% of the time. There is no place in these sacred
relationships for random thoughtless glibness. Nor is there room for the silent
treatment. This passive-aggressive isolating behavior can loudly condemn,
frighten, and/or alienate. Adoring words akin to warm nurturing blankets
provide coziness. Compliments boost morale. A liberal dose of humor makes home
life relaxed and easy. In addition, a light-hearted attitude can prevent or
diffuse arguments. Since our loved ones deserve to receive respect, shower them
with the tried and true magic words: please, thank you, and you’re welcome. By
consistently combining all of the above ingredients, you will really be cooking
with LOVE.
April 5, 2013
LYTE BYTES
Thunder Storms
I live in the middle of a forest far from neighbors and a long drive
from town. On rainy days I keep busy. I find inclement weather the perfect
opportunity to write. As thunder rattles my windows and lightning illuminates my
rooms I try to incorporate the surrounding energy into my stories.
Soon our power goes out and cold air chills our bones. No Internet, no
television, no heat, no water. My attention shifts to discovering ways to
pleasantly pass the upcoming hours. I built a fire, cuddle up to my husband. We
talk, reminisce, and kiss. “Let’s play cards,” I suggest. We enjoy each other’s
company into the night. Next morning we’re greeted by sunshine.
During emotional storms including illness or loss I keep busy. I
attempt to use surrounding adverse energy to seek solutions, rectify wrongs, or
mourn. As a tempest persists, normalcy fades leaving me in a state of
discomfort. I redirect my attention to my blessings. Their abundance inspires me
to reframe my situation. Bolstered by hope I reach out to those around me.
Together we enjoy passing moments. These precious times invite sunshine into our darkness.
I live in the middle of a forest far from neighbors and a long drive
from town. On rainy days I keep busy. I find inclement weather the perfect
opportunity to write. As thunder rattles my windows and lightning illuminates my
rooms I try to incorporate the surrounding energy into my stories.
Soon our power goes out and cold air chills our bones. No Internet, no
television, no heat, no water. My attention shifts to discovering ways to
pleasantly pass the upcoming hours. I built a fire, cuddle up to my husband. We
talk, reminisce, and kiss. “Let’s play cards,” I suggest. We enjoy each other’s
company into the night. Next morning we’re greeted by sunshine.
During emotional storms including illness or loss I keep busy. I
attempt to use surrounding adverse energy to seek solutions, rectify wrongs, or
mourn. As a tempest persists, normalcy fades leaving me in a state of
discomfort. I redirect my attention to my blessings. Their abundance inspires me
to reframe my situation. Bolstered by hope I reach out to those around me.
Together we enjoy passing moments. These precious times invite sunshine into our darkness.
February 25, 2013
LYTE BYTES
Springtime
At this time of year, melting snows swell rivers and fill ponds.
Buds burst forth, grasses sprout up, and wildflowers bloom. Shades of green
paint landscapes, blossoms explode with delicate scents, and winged creatures
flit about.
Even within this enchanting season, unresolved traumas can
freeze us in an internal endless winter. As if infused with ice crystals,
paralysis sets in. Our immobilized emotions suspend us in time.
Fortunately, our inner sunshine can help melt our fears and lead
us to new opportunities.
For example, at age twelve, Sally not only lost her mother, but
her grief stricken father withdrew from his children. Sally tried to perform
household chores and care for her six-year old brother. A child herself, she
felt inadequate. As she grew into adulthood, Sally attempted to forget her former difficulties. Unconsciously she feared she would repeat the mistakes she made
while mothering her brother; thus, she avoided serious romantic relationships.
One day Sally reflected upon her childhood. She allowed herself
to cry about her great losses. She was surprised to discover by remembering, her
pain was less than when she struggled to forget. Next, she wrote a list of the
good, which came from her bad experiences. She realized, as a child she
expressed concern for the welfare of others. She felt proud of her kind acts
done without guidance or instruction. She realized she was a genuinely giving
individual, a self-starter, a quick learner, and an independent person. A person
she could always rely upon She put into perspective her mistakes and forgave
herself. Her fears began to melt, her confidence began to grow, and she allowed
romantic love to enter her life.
The following simple recipe can usher springtime into any season of your life:
Sunny Side Up
(a bright way to greet the future)
One cracked egg (a traumatic experience)
Pound of reflection (in order to forget you must first remember)
Magnum of positive outcomes (there are always many)
Handfuls of self-praise (well deserved)
Abundance of self-appreciation
*Sprinkle with self-forgiveness
Choose a safe place and time to recall a trauma from your past.
It may help to have someone you trust at your side. Write down a list of
positives, which have come from this traumatic event. Praise yourself for the
unique ways you got through this trauma. Praise yourself for the sensitive ways
you reacted to this trauma. Praise yourself for the remarkable paths you chose
to take after this trauma. Appreciate your strengths, value your wisdom, and
love your miraculous self.
*Remember to forgive yourself for any mistakes you think you made due to this trauma.
At this time of year, melting snows swell rivers and fill ponds.
Buds burst forth, grasses sprout up, and wildflowers bloom. Shades of green
paint landscapes, blossoms explode with delicate scents, and winged creatures
flit about.
Even within this enchanting season, unresolved traumas can
freeze us in an internal endless winter. As if infused with ice crystals,
paralysis sets in. Our immobilized emotions suspend us in time.
Fortunately, our inner sunshine can help melt our fears and lead
us to new opportunities.
For example, at age twelve, Sally not only lost her mother, but
her grief stricken father withdrew from his children. Sally tried to perform
household chores and care for her six-year old brother. A child herself, she
felt inadequate. As she grew into adulthood, Sally attempted to forget her former difficulties. Unconsciously she feared she would repeat the mistakes she made
while mothering her brother; thus, she avoided serious romantic relationships.
One day Sally reflected upon her childhood. She allowed herself
to cry about her great losses. She was surprised to discover by remembering, her
pain was less than when she struggled to forget. Next, she wrote a list of the
good, which came from her bad experiences. She realized, as a child she
expressed concern for the welfare of others. She felt proud of her kind acts
done without guidance or instruction. She realized she was a genuinely giving
individual, a self-starter, a quick learner, and an independent person. A person
she could always rely upon She put into perspective her mistakes and forgave
herself. Her fears began to melt, her confidence began to grow, and she allowed
romantic love to enter her life.
The following simple recipe can usher springtime into any season of your life:
Sunny Side Up
(a bright way to greet the future)
One cracked egg (a traumatic experience)
Pound of reflection (in order to forget you must first remember)
Magnum of positive outcomes (there are always many)
Handfuls of self-praise (well deserved)
Abundance of self-appreciation
*Sprinkle with self-forgiveness
Choose a safe place and time to recall a trauma from your past.
It may help to have someone you trust at your side. Write down a list of
positives, which have come from this traumatic event. Praise yourself for the
unique ways you got through this trauma. Praise yourself for the sensitive ways
you reacted to this trauma. Praise yourself for the remarkable paths you chose
to take after this trauma. Appreciate your strengths, value your wisdom, and
love your miraculous self.
*Remember to forgive yourself for any mistakes you think you made due to this trauma.
December 27, 2012
LYTE BYTES
EACH HEART IS DIFFERENT
&
EACH HEART HAS A DIFFERENT STORY
Have you ever wondered about your great, great grandparents? Where did they grow up? How did they meet? What were their dreams?
Someday, someone will be wondering about you. Someone will long to hear your tale, understand your values, and learn from your experiences.
No matter your age, now is the time to write your story. One way is to separate your life into stages: early childhood, childhood, teen years, young adulthood, middle years, and onward. Share a memory from each timeframe.
Besides factual data like birthplace, include your emotional reactions to your surroundings. Open your heart and let your feelings, ideas, and beliefs spill out.
Besides milestones like marriage, include ordinary incidents especially those, which made a difference. Often small events make the biggest impact.
Besides established accomplishments like graduations, include personal achievements. What were your quests? What brought you joy? What made you laugh? What made you cry? Who were your heroes? What gave you peace?
While I’m certain your story will be an inspiring gift to future generations, I warn you, your story will surprise you.
&
EACH HEART HAS A DIFFERENT STORY
Have you ever wondered about your great, great grandparents? Where did they grow up? How did they meet? What were their dreams?
Someday, someone will be wondering about you. Someone will long to hear your tale, understand your values, and learn from your experiences.
No matter your age, now is the time to write your story. One way is to separate your life into stages: early childhood, childhood, teen years, young adulthood, middle years, and onward. Share a memory from each timeframe.
Besides factual data like birthplace, include your emotional reactions to your surroundings. Open your heart and let your feelings, ideas, and beliefs spill out.
Besides milestones like marriage, include ordinary incidents especially those, which made a difference. Often small events make the biggest impact.
Besides established accomplishments like graduations, include personal achievements. What were your quests? What brought you joy? What made you laugh? What made you cry? Who were your heroes? What gave you peace?
While I’m certain your story will be an inspiring gift to future generations, I warn you, your story will surprise you.
