There Is Nothing Else
Awakening from a lost past in a surreal present, I realize that I really have nothing more to say out here in the world of modern technology and the internet. I started this blog a few years ago, thinking that I knew something and others might find it interesting. I have since learned that I knew so little that I should have just kept my mouth shut (which is my current personal rule, as I bet in my present life I do not say 50 words in an entire day). So, no advice, suggestions, proverbs or predictions, because whether it be from one's own actions or those of people you do not even really know, life can be completely altered until it's not even recognizable as any part of a reality once taken for granted, despite what you read or think you're prepared for. Thus, I no longer see any point in trying to comment on what goes on in the bizarre world that most people choose to accept.
I believe this: treasure your friends, if you have any. There are damn few friends. If you ever get in a position where your life has come apart, you'll learn just how few. Not much else matters. Those few people really do matter. Everyone else can just go away and believe me, they sure do run away. It's kind of like having a lot of tattoos. If somebody looks at your ink and immediately dislikes you, that's fine, you wouldn't have liked their company anyway. If you knew 100 people, be happy that one remains with you. The rest don't matter.
May life reward you with peace and wisdom. Peace comes from your soul at rest. Wisdom comes from experience. Once you have enough experience to learn that you have a whole lot more to learn, you'll be wise enough to allow your soul some rest and you can ultimately be at peace, at least for a while and maybe for a long time. That is the ultimate goal and there truly is nothing else.
Dave, you need three things:
1. a stiff drink
2. a good steak
3. to get laid
Seriously, we miss you out here in the flatlands. Mike, Don and I were at the Eagles the other night and it wasn't near the same without your wiry butt on the stools with us. Just remember this: you may not think so right now, but you've still got lots to say and we're still interested in hearing it and being your friend. If I ever get my professional act together and am in a position to offer you something to do, rest assured that's going to happen. Don't say I didn't warn you. Let us know when you're tired of being a hermit.
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Mr. West,
I have been reading your blog for quite a while. I was pleasantly surprised to see you on the cover of my latest USCCA magazine. I was sorry to read of your marriage trouble. I have used your insights to help further develop my selfdefence philosophy as well as that of my Wife and 4 children. I have shared your thoughts with my selfdefence instructor and he has in turn used them to help other students. One is a man who is a public defender here in Indianapolis who come from a anti-gun and anti-violence culture. His family/college culture was one that viewed self defense as violent behavior. Your articles we a great help to him and again to myself and my family. I thank you for the wisdom as we are all in dire need of Wolf Sense. Also, the posts of the last several months have been sad as to the heartbreaks in your changes in life, but, encouraging as I saw a man picking up and carrying on. Despite changes, despite losses, despite mistakes. I will continue as I have in the past to wish you well and hope for better. And, to be deeply grateful for all you have shared with me and those I care most. I understand the feeling of having nothing left to offer. I cold not remain silent and allow you to possibly not consider all you have given.
Thank you sir.
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Dave,
Keep in mind the words of Winston Churchill: "If you're going through hell, keep going."
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Don't stop writing Dave!! I agree with Brian and Iron M. You've got plenty more to say. Take care of yourself and keep writing!
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