This month's theme "Remember" is a multi-faceted topic. Remembering can run the gamut from the worst to the best of life. There is great peace to be found when we remember people, places, and events that encouraged us to do better, to be better. And I suppose that the times that were unpleasant also played a role in shaping us.

I remember three personal events each May. My next younger brother was born in May, and tragically also died in May, six days before his 61st birthday. My father was born in May. If his health holds up, he will celebrate his 94th birthday on the 10th. From him I learned that being tough is 10% physical and 90% mental. I don't know anyone who worked harder and longer than he did, providing for a family of eight children. He taught me integrity, honesty, dedication, and tenacity by his example. He didn't preach much, he just walked the walk.

The thing I try most to remember is this: Of all the things that you can be in this life, be kind.

SUBMISSIONS for June open on the 1st of May and will close when I have 40 submissions or on the 10th whichever comes first. Given the recent changes to the guidelines, you really should take a minute and review them. The optional theme for June is "Addiction/Recovery". Any type of addiction, any kind of recovery.

Jim