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Two Different People; Two Separate Journeys

On By rsnoelIn Uncategorized2 Comments

This piece was inspired by a recent whirlwind of events related to immense inner-growth. Without further delay, let me share a piece of my soul with you.

 

Two Different People; Two Separate Journeys

Down by the knurled tree, right of the curved stone wall, and left of the beach-sand; stand two very different men on two separate and unlikely journeys.

One is hardworking, dedicated to achieving greatness, and prepared for the unknown.

The other one, is carefree, unassuming and full of excitement and innocent joy.

But both men stare out towards the same horizon, as their life is yet on the cusp of a whirlwind of events.

The hardworking man is ready for anything, ready for nothing, and ready for all-the-in-between.

He’s prepared; and yet he also knows that nothing will truly prepare him for what is to come next.

The unmotivated man is ready to enjoy whatever journey life throws his way. In a sense, this man is more prepared for the vast unknown than the hardworking man.

That’s the excitement of life, not knowing if one is destined for greatness or if one is destined for dullness.

For that is the big hidden secret of life. Truth be told, there is no such thing as failure. There is only greatness and dullness.

Just as much as the hardworking man may be focused to succeed; the unmotivated man may very well be the one who is thrust into greatness. He has no time to prepare for such change. He knows not how to readjust his life.

Just as that very same hardworking man has made it his life’s goal to become the lead-man of this epic lore; the other man has yet to realize that the strange workings of life have gifted him with all of the worldly secrets he needs to fulfill such a magical destiny.

For that is what the hardworking man doesn’t fully understand.

Life is not about him, or her, or even them. It is not about how well you prepare yourself with education and indoctrination. No, it is about how well you prepare your mind, heart, and soul.

It’s about knowing when to make a move to benefit not only yourself, but those around you.

It’s about understanding that some days will be filled with treachery, lies, deceit, and deception.

It’s about accepting love and compassion into your heart even when your inner-life is filled with turmoil and rage.

The light of truth is one in which is basked in dark days.

The true light, is that in which we cannot see.

It is the light in which you and I are forever blind to; but can feel through divine glimpses and visions:

Ray of hope; wash away my woes.

Beautiful song-birds; mince my ordinary life with beautiful chimes.

Ocean breeze, come and engulf me in the unheard secrets and truths that rest within your depths.

In the depths of the unknown, I found hope.

In the calamity of the end-days, I began to feel a gusto of confidence and inner-strength I never knew existed in my soul.

In the singular sound of your distant voice, I found peace and solace once again. For in this moment of unique silence – I knew I wasn’t truly alone.

Forever in Your Debt,

R.S. Noel

 

Photo credits: (Click anywhere on this sentence to view the source for the picture used in this piece!)

Transformation

On By rsnoelIn Blog Posts, Realism Posts, truth, UncategorizedLeave a comment

(Inspiration for this poetic piece, click me to listen to song)

Transformation

I feel myself disconnecting from who I am.

Who I am….

Who I…………..was?

I’m beginning to wonder: what’s wrong with me? 

Why am I losing pieces of myself?

Why are those pieces floating out of my consciousness like a stream of water flowing downstream at an unimaginably blinding speed?

I see you. 

I…..saw you?

I’m beginning to wonder if I’m starting to see you or if I’m beginning to see…….my own reflection?

Like a kaleidoscope of dizzying colors, my once dreary eyes are beginning to see the faint lights of ever-changing fates.

To see the potential of you and I. To feel the winds of unspoken truths caress my face with faulty lies.

I’ve begun to speak in my dreams of feverish nightmares borne of an indifference to what’s going on in our shared world.

I’ve begun to distance myself from who we are meant to be.

I’ve broken our promise.

I’m sorry.

I’m so incredibly sorry.

I feel like I failed who I was meant to be.

And yet…

Yet my future is bright.

What does that even mean?

Why do we cherish those who have “made it”?

One day.

One day, I swear on my very soul.

I will live my truth.

I will change this world, even if for just a flash of a moment.

I will change the collective consciousness of our society for just a second in history.

I will defend the honor of what it means to truly survive and thrive in this world, I will remind myself of why I still breathe.

No doubt the best of humanity dies young; for the old and aging continue to live and support this world full of deception and abuse. I should know, I’m becoming such a thing. Such a creature of the night.

Why haven’t I ended it all for myself?

I don’t feel suicidal. That’s likely the reason why. But still…why am I playing along with this game?

I can’t stop myself either. I’m filled with determination unlike anything of this world. But…why? Why am I so competitive? Why am I so determined? Even though I don’t wish to be, I just am?

Confusing thoughts spiral in my mind as a wave of over-confidence washes over me…or is it doubt?

But I’m not indecisive; though I wish I was at this moment.

I wish I was more confused than I’m playing it out to be.

I wish I could come up with some excuse; some tainted truth.

Thoughts intertwined with hallowed emotions. I don’t actually feel anything at this moment. I’ve become numb. And yet, my heart still beats? It beats with life, with the ever-pulsing rhythm of life.

Why has our world succumb to such devastation and derelict woes?

Why, why, why, why, why, why.

Our voices are drowned out, our opinions are non-existent, and our stories will forever be untold.

The truth will forever glimmer in the moonlit sky like a long-forgotten wish. The truth will flicker as a lone candle does in the dead of night. The truth will be unseen like the silent bird which has no voice to sing. The truth will exist, but only for itself alone. It will never be comforted, never be hugged with delight or cherished for its unique characteristics. It will never be able to shine so brightly that the sun, and the moon, and all the stars are meaningless to the bountiful life on Earth.

The truth will forever remain unclaimed. Forever untouched and despised. For truth brings inconvenience. It fosters a sense of hostility between two souls. It reminds all of us of our inevitable death. It reminds us that life is so precious; yet we are wasting it away day-in-and-day-out by working away at a job which holds no meaning to our true community; our true loved-ones.

The truth is harsh.

It is cruel and cold.

Like the nights of cold-sweat drenching your body; it is unforgiving and relentless. Like the days full of addiction and of growing numbness to life; rejection of truth brings about the calamity of your very existence. Like the darkening sky full of dread, or the mysterious secrets veraciously biting away at your soul as you try and reason and bargain with darker realities. Truth untouched is like a baby without her mother. It is like an unheard cry in the middle of nowhere. It is like the blood-thirsty eyes of a feral creature ready to devour it’s prey.

It is like the breaking of glass, as the world comes shattering down upon the weight of our lies.

But…

Once acknowledge and accepted; truth transforms it’s once ugly disguise into a beautiful soul.

Dancing in the light of day, truth can once again show us the way to salvation and holiness.

It can help us become worthy of being named children of goodness. Children of the righteous path – even if it isn’t always the easiest one.

Truth……

Truth can set us free again.

Forever in Your Debt,

R.S. Noel

 

Source of photo: (click me to view picture credits)

An Open Letter to the Universe

On By rsnoelIn Blog Posts, Online Journal Entries, Realism Posts, Uncategorized2 Comments

Hello world, it’s R.S. Noel just checking-in to see how things are going in the world currently.

I wonder…why are there so many possibilities? Why is there ab endless array of choices to choose from? There’s a bottomless list of items, destinations, and places I’ve yet to venture to – because, I’ve been so enraptured by the things I still feel are necessary to do before I ever get to that point in life. I’ve started so many things recently in my life, and oddly enough; I don’t feel overwhelmed this time around. I actually feel productive and ready to take on the world with all of its painful and glorious moments.

Feeling productive is certainly not the same as being enslaved by our limitless efforts to  find some semblance of peace in our lives; or is it? There are people who are less fortunate then me, and then, there are many other people who are more fortunate then us. I wonder, what is our lot in this life? To toil away for the rest of our days, to break our bodies down over time due to the natural progression of life? Certainly there is something more out there, or is there…?

Maybe it really is all about perspective. Maybe it truly does come down to “in the eye of the beholder.” Whatever each of us, on an individual level, seeks out in life will depend greatly on our secret wishes, dreams, and desires.

But then, there are those moments. Ah yes, those moments of complete and utter bewilderment, confusion, and delusion. I begin to feel myself slowly drifting off into nothingness, barely holding onto the single metaphorical piece of wood which accompanies me down this stream which leads to the vast unknown.

Oddly enough; in this moment of immense uncertainty, I feel more connected with the world and the universe then I have ever felt before. In this moment of absolute distortion and chaos, I see the world. I see what is and what was. I see the beauty of friendship and camaraderie grow like a wild rose in the plains of heaven. I see the injustice and cruelty of cold, callous hearts, and all of the injustices thrown onto the people of this physical world. I see the lines of society blur between the lines of humanity, for better and for worse. I see marriage between two souls forever intertwined in a moment of inescapable blessings and curses. I see the mingling of darkness veiled within the expanse of light. I see the truth, no matter the mood.

So I say on this finite note, the many esoteric words no other human dares speak.

Why are you willingly allowing the world to change who you are? Who are you even? You should be changing the world, not the other way around. There are no excuses, there are no good reasons. You must steady your hand and stand tall for what you believe in. Take your convictions and grow a garden of life, not of evil. Don’t be afraid of the darkness either, for both light and dark create the equilibrium of life. Always remember however, to tread carefully.

Lest you get lost in the void of no-return. Then, and only then, will you forever lose yourself within the abysmal and unfamiliar darkness of surreal realities…

 

Forever in Your Debt,

R.S. Noel

 

Source of Photo (Click Me for Photo Credits)

Gaining New Perspectives in Life

On By rsnoelIn Blog Posts, Realism Posts, Uncategorized7 Comments

When you write, a lot of the times there are many different angles to look at any given situation you’re focused on. Whether you’re writing a non-fiction or fiction book, you’ll usually find yourself wondering which way is the best manner in which to start or view your topic of choice. It’s always important to see something from multiple viewpoints, you never want to look at a piece of writing and wonder what the purpose behind it is.

Yet this post isn’t about writing. No, it’s about the new perspectives gained through being more aware of your environment (both imagined and real).

Some of the best methods of gaining a new perspective in your life is to imagine what your own experience would be like in a different person’s position. Better yet, you can also imagine what the world must feel like on a daily basis. Just imagine what the life of a mouse must be like. Or even how the sound of a clock ticks while an empty house remains silent amidst a time of vast uncertainty. The possibilities are endless with this type of thinking.

There’s no end to creativity, the only limit is yourself. Never be too afraid, always question the validity of a person, a situation, or even the state of our world. The more you start to question, the more you begin to realize that everything in life is permitted. With this viewpoint, you can better understand a lot of the current world affairs in today’s globalized society.

A defining moment in any person’s life, is characterized by a sense of awakening, or even a sense of understanding herself/himself in the world and where they stand in it. It can be a truly humbling, and sometimes even terrifying, realization when you begin to understand and come to terms with a lot of the realities of our existence and what it even means to be human in this ever-changing environment. To grasp your own identity is the single best thing you can ever do, not only for yourself, but for those around you who truly love you and cherish you for who you are as a human being in the world.

On a more transparent note, I want to let you know, that perspective also helps you to heighten your sense of awareness of the crueler fates amidst our globalized world. Because in some manner, you will realize that even if you’re just one person in a sea of others, you can change the world (even if it is at a micro-level, it’s still very significant in the grander scheme of life). Your actions, especially during times of hardship and uncertainty in your society, can help to further strengthen the bonds and connections you have with those around you.

Perspective of different people, different life-forms, and different ideologies, is probably the best tool to have if you are a writer. You’re able to understand so many otherwise mysterious concepts in mainstream society. You’re able to better analyze why something happened, and the many different things that caused it.

It’s kind of like being a detective, but the only thing is, no one in the entire world knows you’re paying attention.

If you choose to be naïve or willingly ignorant, I cannot judge you. I used to judge people on being ignorant, back when I was a teenager. But now that I’m an adult, I’ve come to understand that everything (and I mean everything) has a reason for being the way it is; and those things don’t necessarily change as quickly as they should. Some things can stay the “same” for a very, very long time. Inevitably, however, things do change. Whether it be in minutes, hours, days, months, years, centuries, or a millennia – everything eventually succumbs to change.

I could go on, but my time is limited today. I have a lot of work to do, and so little time to finish it. If anything, I’ll leave you with one simple thought: hold the deepest parts of yourself close to your soul, but also let the world see a part of who you truly are. In this way, you can better build your own personality through the different tribulations and trials out there in our shared environment.

After all, we show only the parts of ourselves which we want the world to see. Ultimately, this is what makes perspective so fascinating and intriguing. Different perspectives are the only hidden truth worth discovering in this estranged and chaotic world.

Forever in Your Debt,

R.S. Noel

In Times of Darkness

On By rsnoelIn Blog Posts, Online Journal Entries, Realism Posts, Uncategorized3 Comments

Some days are more difficult than others; but I’ve recently discovered that no matter where you are in your life, you can always make the best of any situation no matter the adversity. After all, there’s no true end-goal in our lives; there are only opportunities to succeed or fail.

Hi everyone, it’s me R.S. Noel coming to you with another post, and today I’ll be discussing the amazing power within you and me.

In times of darkness, we can become more than just ordinary people. We are all incredibly talented in one way or another; and as human beings, we have the chance and opportunity to truly take what is ours. In this society driven by pure competition and favoritism; we as people can still find ways to make a difference in the world. We need 3 things: hard-work, opportunity, and luck. Even if people try to sabotage you in some way, or even if you feel under-appreciated in your work, or even if you think you’ll never succeed; the truth of the matter is that you have to try first in order to know what you can do to better your chances of success at whatever it is you’re actively working at.

I’ve realized at 24 years of age, that nothing is impossible. Truly nothing. You can quite literally materialize whatever you so desire into the real world without any opposition. One way or another, you will succeed – even if it’s not the way you had once originally envisioned it to be like.

I think the beautiful thing about life right now is that we’re living in a very unique period of vast-knowledge and also a time of grave uncertainty. It is a clash of both something good and something incredibly bad. Of course, that’s how life usually works. There must always be a Yang to every Yin. No matter how bad we want life to be this easy road to success, we have to remember that reality is much harsher than that. We must make sacrifices in order to achieve whatever it is that we want. We must also remember that we must put in the necessary time in order to make things work.

For example, my older brother who is just about to turn 31 years old, has had a plan set in motion since he was 20. He has already completed college with a degree in graphic designing. But he’s content with his job, which is working at the local supermarket. He has gained about 12 years already with his store, and he plans to retire from there and eventually find another job to coincide with his retirement checks from the supermarket. This is something that he has actively worked at and I am really proud of him. Of course, other people may see this as a failure, but I see it as an achievement. He’s part of a union, and he’ll likely never get fired or laid-off, so he has more security in his job than many other people his age. That is certainly something to be proud of, especially since we live in an age of massive instability.

I digress though, back to the main topic at hand.

In times of darkness, we are faced with a multitude of personal questions which we must answer in order to move ahead in our own lives.

Like; where do I want to be in 5 years? In 10 years?

What kind of lifestyle do I want to live by?

Do I want to be married and have kids one day soon? Or am I a free spirit who would rather travel around America or the world?

These are the kinds of questions we must all ask ourselves as we grow older and more aware of our own surroundings. Life has never been easy or simple; that’s the truth of it. That’s why every time I hear “why do humans have to make life so difficult” I merely laugh to myself in silence. Humans were meant to make life difficult. We aren’t a docile or even quiet breed of creatures. We are intelligent, proud, and even opinionated (some more than others). EVERYONE’s lives are difficult, no matter what kind of government system we have. no matter what societal rules we construct, and no matter what expectations we place on our people.

Life for humans was never designed to be “simple” or “easy”. It was created to be challenging. It was meant to be a life-or-death experience. It was meant to be cherished and scorned. Life for humans was meant to be a life-long journey wrought with happiness and pain all mixed together. To push ourselves further than we could ever imagine. Life is a roller-coaster with only one end, that being death. So you might as well get out there and take life by the horns.

Nobody will make that choice for you; only you can make those hard decisions in life yourself.

That’s what I think is a potential problem with our modern day society. Our parents, grandparents, etc., etc., have really coddled us into being “too soft”. Four years ago, I was a completely different man than I am today. Sometimes I can’t even begin to fathom how I used to be. I would have never survived in the world by myself if I never evolved and matured. And even still, I have much left to learn and grow from. That’s a natural process to life after all. If you try and stop the inevitable change from happening, than you’ll never be fully prepared for what life has to offer us.

In times of darkness, there are moments which escape us that can never be recalled again. If we let slip those opportunities of hardship, we may never grow if we don’t accept the challenges that await us on the other side.

I once dated a girl for 3 years who was older than me and was afraid to live life. She was shy, a bit on the quiet side, and wasn’t completely sure of herself. Rest assured, after the 3 years we were together, she had blossomed into a woman who was sure of herself and of her goals in life. She wanted to go to New York City and live there; she wanted to experience and learn new things in life beyond college since she finished. She wanted to become an active participant in her own life story. That’s what I love to see; growth. Even though it didn’t work out for us, and we had our differences, I’m still glad that I was able to get her out of her shell. Whoever ends up with her as a partner will be very lucky to have her. She was an incredible young woman, and had become very communicative and open.

Things happen in life; and as you go through changes in your own life, you’ll begin to see the differences around you. You’ll begin to see the many different possibilities out there for you to grab. You’ll begin to understand that you’re bound to make mistakes. More importantly, you’ll begin to appreciate living your life a little more than you might take for granted now.

Conclusively, I think it’s safe to say that you owe it to yourself to go do that thing you’ve always wanted to do. Start that project you’ve always wanted to finish; see where it leads you. Perhaps you’ve always wanted to travel yourself; starting making a financial goal for your traveling needs. It’s never too late to start something new; we as human beings are never done learning. We are ever-evolving and always learning new concepts, ideas, and truths. Don’t let the fear of failure overrule your desire to try something new. That’s the biggest issue in the world, and especially at a time of vast uncertainty as we’re currently facing in our world, there really is no better time to get started on your life then right now.

So go out there and make a difference, even if it’s a small one. After all, all great things in the world have relatively small and insignificant beginnings.

Forever in Your Debt,

R.S. Noel

Arkanim: Tales of the Enlightened Ones

On By rsnoelIn Blog Posts, Online Journal Entries, Realism Posts, Uncategorized3 Comments

Hello everyone! It’s me R.S. Noel coming to you with another post. For today, I’m going to make it short and also provide another excerpt from Arkanim: Tales of the Enlightened Ones. This is another work-in-progress book that I’ve been writing for a while now. To be honest, this is the very first work-in-progress book I had originally started on when I was young. But through the years, growing-up got the better of me, and I had put this story aside.

Now, however, it’s come into my life once again.

 

The following is a work-in-progress by me, R.S. Noel. I hold and maintain all the rights for the work presented below. Thank you for your interest and understanding. Enjoy!:

 

It was growing. All around her, she could hear the sounds of light footsteps, of silent windy whispers gliding through the jungle’s vines, of the many different sounds of nature that were now engulfing the foreigners. Rhea couldn’t distinguish between what noise belonged to a human and what noise belonged to the wild life of these unruly jungles.

There was no doubt in her mind that they were being watched closely, it was only a matter of time before something immensely uncertain happened.

Rhea could hear Merthus beginning to breath slightly faster now as the boy had undoubtedly noticed the subtle changes in the Flurrus Jungle as well. Rhea wished at this very moment that she could just comfort the small child, but she knew that it was hopeless to even pretend that everything was all right. She knew that they just needed to survive through this experience. Their lives had become nothing more than the basic instinct of survival. Nothing else mattered; just their willpower to make it out of this mess alive.

Moving a bit quicker through the narrow path they were walking upon, Rhea could tell that Zante was increasingly growing worried as he appeared to turn his head slightly left and right from time to time. Rhea knew that the man was surely trying to figure out if the hidden Urksinians were going to show themselves right now or not.

She knew now at this very moment that Zante Qitzo truly did care for their wellbeing. If Rhea had any doubts before, they were put to rest as her eyes maintained a steady gaze on the back of Zante’s head. This was the only thing that Rhea could manage to look at, as she feared trying to avert her gaze even slightly away towards the noises that were only continuing to grow around her. It would only serve to bring more trouble to them.

In the distance from this curving road riddled with dark soil, Rhea could see two large arching gates that were closed shut. She could not see beyond that point, as there appeared to be plenty of large vines and roots covering the otherwise visible sight of the village certainly behind the gates.

Some of Rhea’s hair covered her face lightly now, as a tailwind swept to the left side of her. She knew that this was no natural occurrence. Her eyes grew wide with fascination. Someone was running unimaginably fast now behind the veil of the thick jungle life to her left. Rhea did not dare to remove her hair from her face, as she now looked dead straight ahead without even entertaining the thought that she could look elsewhere. Her eyes were wide with paralyzed fear. She knew her inner fear was showing, and she cursed very silently underneath her breath as she wished for nothing else but to hide such vulnerable emotions.

It was without question that Rhea, Merthus, and Dasca were simply not welcomed here. Even before she had seen any of the Urksinians within the village of Kinkuly itself, Rhea was now starting to understand the workings of different people from different parts of the world.

As the group neared closer to the heavily vegetated gates that surely led into the village of Kinkuly, Rhea could see four guardsmen standing ever so silently amongst the vines. Rhea had not seen them before, and likely because they were wearing armor that was the same shade of green as the verdant gates. She was in awe at how unmoving they were, better than statues. Certainly the messenger that Zante had sent ahead of them had let these guardsmen know that they were nearing the village. And by they, Rhea knew she was thinking more along the lines of Dasca, Merthus, and herself.

Gorgirians were not exactly on friendly terms with Urksinians.

Rhea could feel the intensity of those behind her, as she momentarily shut her eyes to allow her fears to subside just a little more.

Then, that’s when it happened.

Jumping from the many trees that were grouped tightly together on both sides of the narrow path – came down about nine native Urksinians. They all appeared intimidating and full of untapped energy. Most of them were men, broad shouldered and towering in size. About two of them were Urksinian women, still equally intimidating with their bulging muscles and unfamiliar physiques.

Yet it was one of the Urksinian men that started to walk straight up to Zante that really caught Rhea’s fearful attention. This man had the broadest of shoulders amongst the newfound Urksinians, thick arms the size of tree trunks, and powerful legs that could likely crush even a newborn gorgus.

He landed squarely in front of Zante as he stared at the man with an unflinching gaze that appeared to bulge out with deep hatred. “Zante Qitzo…vena’lu hega nemno qora-dod belsion!” [Zante Qitzo…you’ve come back home with slaves in tow!].

Though Rhea had no idea what this unknown new man had just said, she could tell Zante was guarding any sign of emotions as he responded back clearly and with a deepened voice. “Jersde leme’neleno, cirlee; nem belsion.” [They are foreigners, guests; not slaves].

 

Forever in Your Debt,

R.S. Noel

 

Source of Photo: (Click Me to View Photo Credits)

A New Writer

On By rsnoelIn Blog Posts, Online Journal Entries, Realism Posts, Uncategorized5 Comments

To be a new writer is to be born into this world for the first time ever.

It is to experience the wonders of such light and dark places. It is a thrill, a wave of feelings and emotions which drown you until you are reborn again, over and over. The process never changes, and the feelings never fade away. Yet new emotions will always take over old ones; making your heart beat wildly with silent joy, with unheard excitement, with untold fears. It all builds up in momentum and tempo, as you begin your journey with gusto and zeal.

To be a new writer means to stumble and make mistakes. Mistakes, however, that need to be made. Because without mistakes, there is no progress. Without imperfections, you will never attain the true potential housed deep within your heart, soul, and mind. To stumble recklessly and with feverish devout, is to be a new writer.

To find your voice, and your path, is what makes us new writers.

To see other people for the first time; to really see them, is what makes us new writers. 

We may never meet, yet I feel as though I’ve known you my whole life. We share an interest, a singular experience known to us as writing. What makes us so unique is this experience alone. We are the scholars of the world, the educators of generations yet to come into existence, and the dreamers for those who are not fortunate enough.

We teach others what life is truly all about. To remind people that if we were to lose everything; society, materialism, structure – all that is left is us.

Us; who have felt naked and lost for centuries upon centuries.

Us; who have been misunderstood by those who are not in-touch with their human emotions and thoughts.

Us; the truth seekers of the very fabrications that make up our collective existence.

This is what it means to be a new writer.

It is, to be human.

This picture you see in the header, is the very same one I took one year ago when I embarked on my final journey to become a writer for life. I’ve never looked back since that day I made this singular promise with myself. Life has never been the same since then.

I can feel the sun’s rays falling on my shoulders as I make my way down this familiar path.

This place, which I will not name, is the single place I come to whenever I have the free time to do so. To be able to wonder and imagine all the different worlds and lives I can experience life through. To be lucky enough to see different people for who they truly are at the core of their beings. To find strange and quizzical creatures who have a mind of their own. The gardens I get to walk through are timeless, the forests I can explore with my imagination take me to places I never knew existed; and most importantly, the lakeside that resides in this mysterious place holds a special place in my soul.

I can only imagine what life would be like if I never began writing.

I would probably never know the true meaning of friendship, or the real depths of hard-earned love. I would have never sought out to make a difference in this sometimes very estranged world. I would have never felt the need to stop time in my life and truly work on the only thing that has ever held any relevance in the world of reality.

Because in the end, all that really matters is you and I.

Don’t you ever forget yourself, or the power you hold inside. Because at the end of the day, only our memories and emotions for those who have passed, and for those who have yet to come, are the only things in life worth fighting for.

Forever in Your Debt,

R.S. Noel

Photo credit: (picture taken by me)

An Ode to Her Soul

On By rsnoelIn Blog Posts, Realism Posts, Uncategorized30 Comments

The soul of her existence inspired life in me.

The energy of her presence reminded me of the true meaning of life’s quarrels.

Her unique aura reminded me of a time when chaos and harmony clashed together to create beautiful and wicked life as it once was before.

Her doubts and insecurities reminded me that we’re all just humans full of emotions which I may never fully understand and will never completely appreciate.

But my manhood is the compliment of her womanhood. Her soul is the Yin and my mind is the Yang. Her ethereal being is the light to my darker reality which I will never show her. Her blossoming life force is what attracts people to gather together and become happier. My life force reminds people of the necessary harshness of our natural world and order.

My coarse hands interlace with her soft and reassuring palms. Her existence is both significant to me and a nuisance. For she is both as necessary as the air we breathe; and ironically so, she is also the metaphorical pain in my heart reminding me that we must deal with emotions even if we wish emotions could just disappear.

Her emotional intelligence far exceeds my mathematical mindset. Her natural intuition senses things I’ll never see. In contrast, the man’s perception of the physical life we live will never quite phase her own life force. For her heart is beyond the physical manifestations of our being. Woman is not of bleak reality. No, she is of boundless creativity ready to burst open at the seams with unapologetic life.

Yet she also has a strange way of keeping me grounded when I begin to try and live past the physical manifestation of this existence. For I will never know the world a woman lives in; and I’ve accepted that I am okay with such a truth.

I will never know her secrets, her wisdom, her thoughts, or her own personal desires for a truly balanced life.

But in that same regard, she will never know the secrets I know, the adventures I go on, or the memories created. She will never know the many loves of my life. For even though she is a huge part of my life- she isn’t my entire life. I appreciate her existence and presence, but I also must have my own space just as much as she needs hers.

I feel selfish, and I wish I didn’t feel this way.

But life is about the golden memories we create, not the overarching society. It’s about enduring through the pains and heartache and remembering that as a man, I can’t afford to stop and remorse for lost loved ones.

For the same society that hinders her personal freedoms, also forbids my emotions and thoughts. For she may not realize it yet; but her existence far exceeds my own. She is the bearer of all human life, and I am merely a man. A man who can certainly do great things; but does not care for pandering to the society which holds us all back.

For I champion not my own success, but the success of brighter and smarter individuals. We are all faced with adversity, and in this ever-changing world full of automation and machine; I have reverted back to being human. I have been reminded of the true world of possibilities and imagination once again. It rests with humans, not with machines.

Through these last couple of years, I’ve come to realize that a woman’s life is full of so many interesting, sad, funny, horrifying, amazing, unique, and miscellaneous moments. Her existence is one of pure good and evil. She lives knowing the truth of our being, knowing that humans are her children to raise. To know that the world will one day take her children’s innocence away without her consent or forewarning. She knows that all of her loved ones will fade away, and one day, she will find herself alone and reminded of our boring, bleak, and uneventful reality.

But unlike man; she will also have her own secret memories to cherish forevermore through time immemorial.

And moreover, she still has purpose in her life. She will guide the hand of the misguided, the abandoned, and the forgotten. For she will remain steadfast in her judgment of what’s truly right and what is wickedly wrong. For even though my own judgment may be clouded by unchanging circumstances a man must go trough in his life; she will fight with a voice mightier than any lion; louder than any howling wind, and more potent than any poison. For her words sting the hardest, grow the thickest, and blossom the brightest. For she has a way with her presence that sways me to secretly believe her every word. Love has a funny way of blinding a man from otherwise obvious signs of danger or misgivings.

I know she will never truly understand a man’s world – but at the end of the day, as long as we both know that our love burns brightly in this small moment in time; then I can live with the fact that we may never see each other again.

My days are filled with meaning only because of her joy. My sorrows only exist because of her true and feigned emotions. My heart only beats due to the boundless love and bottomless anger she makes me feel at times. It’s passion, and I don’t know what I would do without her love. I would find another, and another, and another. For I could never live without a woman’s love. A woman’s love is the purest form of love there is in the world. She may not realize it right now, but her heart and her thoughts are what makes this world magical again.

We see eye-to-eye and understand that we will forever be at-odds. She understands we have roles to play; temporary parts to a fading play. She knows that this lifetime is short, so she makes the best of her days. I may have just realized my own mortality; but she knew of death the moment she realized she could create life.

I could go on about my admiration and amazement at woman’s existence; but I won’t. I know she understands our existential manifestation, and our never-ending love for passion. She knows man is nothing with woman, and in that same regard- even if she never voices it; she understands that life would be meaningless without man’s toil and aggression.

But in the end, when the curtains of this fading play finally drape down at the end; I will die knowing that I’ll never find another one of her. She was my first love, and she’ll forever be my last.

 

Forever in Your Debt,

R.S. Noel

 

Source of photo: (click me to view photo credits!)

Mythos of Azernos (Poetics 1)

On By rsnoelIn Blog Posts, Greek and Roman Mythology Inspired Epic, Online Journal Entries, UncategorizedLeave a comment

Accompanying music to listen to while reading the excerpt: (click me once you’ve put on your headphones and are ready to read some more of this epic known as the Mythos of Azernos)

Warning: Content may be graphic for younger readers, discretion is strongly advised

Inspiration: The sometimes absurd, outlandish, crazy; yet vastly entertaining Greek/Roman Mythologies of the ancient world.

 

Poetics 1 (Excerpt from Mythos of Azernos)

“Captain, we’ve lost the citadel!”

“We must pull back, we’ve soon to lose the entire city!”

As the crisscrossing Athenian soldiers spun around to face the new threat from behind them, they soon thereafter faced their death as a huge eruption exploded right in front of them.

An unseen bomb had fallen through the night sky from a gliding airship above. It had landed with a devastating blow to all the soldiers and innocent bystanders still amidst the City of Athens.

This sprawling ancient city was slowly beginning to become overrun by technological weapons and the humans from high-above; the Heaven-bound humans, as they had been labeled so long ago. As such, the Earth-bound humans were no match for their opposition.

Yet unbeknownst to either side of this deathly war; the gods and goddesses were also fighting throughout the battlefield amongst their mortal counterparts.

A few thousand yards behind the now two deceased Athenian soldiers; was Goddess of Opportunity and Prosperity – otherwise known as Change.

She had transformed herself into a mortal man. As strange as this transformation had been, Change had disguised herself well enough – for no mortal eyes could ever see her true form.

She had moved upon the battlefield in this disguise for quite some time, as she made her rounds in protecting any such soldier who was unfairly outnumbered; comforting any such souls who were to pass onto their eternal slumber; and guiding those who yet still had a fighting chance to survive in this lifetime. Unfortunately for her though, her ruse wouldn’t last for much longer.

For truth be told, she was not the only immortal upon this field of drylands and dead bodies.

For opposing her at this very moment, was both War and Death. War was God of Discarded Life. He was a god worth a million tales and feared by many mortals and immortals alike. Having seen every battle conceivable to man and woman; he had plagued the lives of so many innocent souls throughout the eons. But perhaps the most disheartening actor to come onto the scene of this newfound and unfolding situation, was that of Death. Death was the Goddess of Tainted Souls; for she was precise in her extraction of any mortal life. Though she feigned a false sense of sorrow, once she had her prey within her grasp, Death was as wicked and mischievous as any god or goddess. She never left any opportunity open for Change to intercept her actions; for Change and Death were sworn enemies.

“Well, well, well – it appears the lonely Goddess has come out to play now?” Death stared curiously at Change as she spoke these haunting words with relative ease and comfort.

Change, not one to buckle down from mere emotions, slowly begun to revert back into her true form. All the while, Change had grasped her Spartan’s sword tightly in her right hand and tightened the hold on her Aspis shield in her left hand. “You think your words have any meaning to me? You’re a fallen Goddess; Death. You live amongst the darker side of Utopira now. Nothing you say or do will ever matter to me anymore!”

Change was getting heated up, as she felt her immortal blood boil for just a mere second.

War remained silent as he readied his large battle ax. Yet he did begin to walk towards Change as he grunted shortly with unknown displeasure.

But as the God of Discarded Life came ever the closer to Change; something was different about him now. War now slowly bellowed out in full-rage as he began to rush towards Change ever-the-faster. Change, not one to be clumsy; was quick on her feet as she leaped out of War’s way just in time to counter-strike War’s bulky head-on attack.

Spinning around with ease, Change agilely leaped at War and struck him right in his left shoulder blade. Temporary anger seeped through Change’s face as she glared at War with a knowing stare. Change knew War was the reason Death had left the ranks of the holier gods and goddesses.

Change could hear a deep guttural laughter build up within War’s mighty chest, as he laughed at Change’s seemingly foolish endeavors to ward off their advances on her.

“You’ll never learn Change! You’ll never see the truth of our shared dilemma. We’re living through troubling days full of dangerous possibilities. Yet you have still not realized the truth of Judgment’s call!”

Change stuck her sword even deeper into War’s shoulder blade as War let out a deep roar of pain. Responding to War’s forward comment, Change glared daringly at the hefty man in disgust. “What gives you the right to change such a fate? Whatever Judgment rules as fair and morally right shall eventually come to pass!”

Before War could say anything in response, Death had glided silently behind Change and was about to stick in her a small sword drenched in godly poison.

But just before Death could make another move, an arrow came whirling from behind Death and Change; just as War had turned around to face the two goddesses.

The direct arrow was followed by an unknown voice. “Watch your back, Death was upon you.”

Change leaped airily out of the way as she had quickly caught sight of Death’s poisoned drenched sword. She just barely dodged her foe’s otherwise swift move; thanks to her unknown ally.

Turning her head to where the unknown voice had originated, she could see that it was Risk, God of Fortuity.

Raising his angled bow once more, Risk aimed it right for War’s head now.

Letting his arrow fly valiantly through the winds, Risk closed one eye as he watched his arrow jettison through the air. Nothing in all of godly life made Risk more at peace with himself than his bow and arrows. He was a hunter by nature, ever the willing and hungry to capture his prey; no matter what side they were on.

As this was going on, Death smiled shortly behind her veiled mask. The Goddess of Tainted Souls knew when it was time for her to take her leave from a scene. And as such;  a dark swirling portal appeared beneath her feet at this very moment. 

Falling deep within the confinements of The Unknown, Death had just as readily left the battlefield as she had entered it.

The arrow, which had been let loose from Risk’s bow, had hit War directly between the eyes.

Change thanked Risk sparingly as she spun around to see War bellowing out his infamous cry of battle.

Enraged by the unexpected turn of events; War caused a rippling affect of unyielding aggression and deathly recklessness to befall any mortal who’s ears could hear his calling.

Change, not leaving anything to chance, took Risk’s hand and began to run at inhuman speed as both goddess and god made their way far away from this battlefield.

They were moving at the speed of light almost. Change could easily ride the rippling currents of winds better than any god or goddess in existence. She had found comfort in knowing this truth. For if there was anything Change had learned, it was that she could never trust War to be sympathetic – not even to his fellow gods and goddesses.

****

As this had been going on; on the opposite end of the battlefield – where the City of Athens was now in shambles and torn into millions of pieces, there were two other gods facing off with each other.

They were rivals since the day they had been born. Bad immortal blood had run deeply between their families, and even through the ages; these two gods were a testament of that deadly rivalry that had fostered between their separate families.

“You think Love has any such feelings for you? You think she even cares that you’re still among our ranks? Ha! You’re more of a fool than I had originally thought.”

“Our relationship is of no concern to you Triumph. Though she may very well be your sister, she is the light of my life!”

Opposing one another, Triumph, God of Victory; and Passion, God of Livelihood, were at adds with one another.

“Failure as always; even though you try so valiantly – you’ll never be god-enough to protect her. I won’t allow it my young, foolish lovebird.”

Triumph was instigating Passion, trying to coax some sort of slip-up.

For Triumph, this was merely his way of preparing for his eventual victory. To make his opponent second-guess himself and to make him mentally weaker than humanly imaginable. 

But Passion was not one to be taken down so swiftly. He was a god not taken to provocation so easily. He had learned his lesson long, long ago during the War of the Immortals. The very same catalyst that had caused the wide chasm of hatred between Passion’s family and Triumph’s own to grow wider and wider with every passing century.

As Passion remained silent, he readied his hidden daggers. He glared at Triumph with a cold, and somewhat blank, stare.

All the while, Triumph brought forth his spear. A mighty weapon if any. Even Passion knew that his opponent was well-beyond his level of battle expertise.

But Passion had one thing Triumph would never understand fully. God of Livelihood knew all the secrets of life. He knew every weakness, and every strength, to his opponent. Even if his opponent happened to be his lover’s older brother.

Moving in an almost-hypnotic dance of battle, both Passion and Triumph were now slowly maneuvering around each other with hidden honor.

But just as readily as the two Gods were matched to fight, the sound of rain began to echo throughout the ruined city.

From high-above, came the low, yet booming, voice of Judgment.

“Lay down your weapons. Neither of you belong here amidst the battlefield on this day.”

Triumph looked the most displeased as he maintained his steely gaze at Passion while simultaneously speaking firmly to Judgment. “Judgment – this isn’t your battle to interrupt!”

Without even another moment’s notice, the sound of a loud thudding noise was apparent as a huge boulder had fallen seemingly out of nowhere.

It nearly took out Triumph’s head. Passion had flew out of the way quick-enough to avoid an otherwise catastrophic; yet temporary, godly-end.

“Turn back now, else I won’t miss next time.”

Triumph; grunting with massive disapproval, took his leave as he turned-tail and rushed out of the scene. Passion, looking onward at his escaping opponent, sighed in silent relief as he grunted in small displeasure himself. Passion was not always so foolish as to believe every situation looked promising. He could be just as level-headed as any of the other gods and goddesses if he tried hard enough. And today was one such day in which he knew better.

*****

Change and Risk had made their way far away from the City of Athens. Change had taken them to the east-end of The Alps. Yet she was not out of breathe, for the immortals had more energy than any mere mortal could ever wish to harness in his lifetime.

Glancing over her shoulder, Change sighed with small relief as Risk questioned Change’s actions.

“You were suppose to be at The Banquet tonight? Yet you chose to disobey Judgment’s order. What of his wife, Intuition? Did you not think of helping her likewise? Surely she would have welcomed your presence. You know better than anyone else that she’s temporarily sick; as gods and goddesses are want to do from time to time.”

Change scoffed lightly as she looked out to the distance now. “You can’t assume every time Intuition falls ill, that I’ll be at her beck-and-call. Anyways, Honesty and Hope are by her bedside.”

Risk looked somewhat suspiciously at Change as he questioned her motives. “Surely it was at your behest?”

Change closed her eyes and smiled slightly. “I’m the lone goddess for a reason. Wherever I’m needed here in the mortal world; I’ve no ties to bring me down. We’ve all our own parts to play, and you have yours certainly.”

Now Risk knew Change was speaking in double-meanings. There was something alluring about her, but also, something strange. Either way, Risk knew that Change never wasted her precious energy. She always had a rhyme for her reason.

Shrugging lightly now as he placed his arms over his head, Risk stared at Change as he begun to try and decipher what she was after.

“So, what was it that brought you down here anyways? You’ve yet to answer me directly.”

Change was quiet for a moment before responding in short. “Personal business, that’s as far as you’ll get with questioning me on this day.”

And with that, Change had left Risk’s presence in the blink of an eye. Risk was now alone.

But he knew what to do next. He also had personal business to attend to. A trio of special guests were waiting for him back in a different place; but not too far off from where he was standing at this very moment. He would be off to the City of Rome; and not a moment too soon either. For two other gods and a single goddess were awaiting his most pressing message. He certainly couldn’t waste anymore idle time; least of all on this night of nights…

 

Forever in Your Debt,

R.S. Noel

 

Source of photo: (click me to view photo credits!)

Music Monday! – Birth of a Mythos

On By rsnoelIn Blog Posts, Greek and Roman Mythology Inspired Epic, Uncategorized4 Comments

Hey everyone; it’s time for another Music Monday! post. This is R.S. Noel here, and I felt inspired by recent philosophical thoughts of mine pertaining to the possible future of our world.

Though this year was full of important and memorable events for all, there seems to be something looming just over the metaphorical hilltop which makes this one a seemingly insignificant year.

This track is what inspired me tonight, on the eve of this weeks Music Monday! 

As per usual, I recommend listening to this track with headphones on, so you don’t disturb anyone around you, or in the same room as you. I suppose you could categorize this music as “epic orchestral”: (Click me to listen to soundtrack!)

Warning, what you are about to read may be graphic in intensity. Moreover, this is just a summarized piece of a book I’m writing entitled “Mythos of Azernos”. Please read at your own discretion.

Inspiration behind this work-in-progress: Greek/Roman Mythology, current global affairs, and an imagination as expansive as the universe itself.

I will begin without further delay:

 

A mythos as old as time itself, this is yet one which should never be told. Only during times of vast uncertainty and darkness does this tale make its presence known to our world.

This is a story of two mortal lovers separated by technological warfare; platoons of soldiers destined for death; a secret trio of two gods and a goddess moving in the guise of silence and darkness to attack at the perfect moment; and of the robotic dictator-like board of inhuman rulers who have the final say in the human lives they watch over.

Yet, this mythos is not just full of sorrow nor of gods and goddesses alone. It is not just a tale of the connection between the physical and spiritual world. Nor of hatred or of war, nor of the ever–impeding doom the humans face in their very existence. And it is not even a tale of desperation. No, this is one of much more.

During times of war, of famine and famish, and of widespread death – our physical world is torn between what is right and what is conquered. It faces the dilemma of choosing the value of human life over that of machination and automation.

And so….it begins.

The wicked machine lifelessly and unknowingly plots alongside the sinister human tacticians whom rule over the lives of all who remain complacent with such twisted rules. Deception, Goddess of Intelligent Lies, directs these misguided intellects towards false destinies and deathly fates. She favors inquisitiveness and cleverness above all else, not saving even an ounce of sympathy for the fool-hearty or naive lover of life.

Opposing the Goddess of Intelligent Lies; is Honesty, Goddess of Naive Truth and Strength. She fights with a brave heart and protects any such mortal she deems worthy of a passionate battle. Honesty also holds the hands of all those who were lied to or left for Death‘s door. She, unlike Deception or Death, is one to give way towards forgiveness and happier days.

And as the war between the gods and goddesses in the spiritual world rages on; the physical world is yet one full of mortal misery and misfortune.

The wealthiest human beings, those belonging in the 1%, live in floating castle-like landscapes. Man-made structures which took centuries to build. Long ago, all humans were born onto the land they would eventual die on. But in this modern world, those who are fortunate enough can live their entire lives completely oblivious to the pains and ills of those below who’s only wish is to live comfortably enough to enjoy life’s most basic blessings.

Of course, these so-called “wealthy” individuals are nothing more than forced slaves. Forced to exist against their wishes; for they were not born from other humans. They were born from technologies which replaced the role of man and woman.

With technology, humans can create human life without the presence of man or woman. They can create a false community, full of lonely offsprings with no parents to love them. Society’s rules are upside-down; favoring the old and forgetting the young. Putting importance on those who have ailing health and discarding those who are healthy and able-bodied. Favoring those who are silent and studious; and casting aside those who show even an inkling of creativity or sympathy. Indeed, this reality was brought upon due to the lack of love and affection the older humans received when they were young themselves.

Yet how could they grow up normally? They too had no parents themselves; they were also born from machines and automations which replaced their otherwise natural parent’s roles.

Favoring the fearful, and hindering the bravest of brave souls; this reality has fractured the very equilibrium of human progression. Because truth be told; in this sickened reality; healthier human beings are seen as a liability. A threat to the very stability and structure of this intentionally weakened society. A reality which was calculatingly fostered about by the policymakers of this new world.

Yet far down-below, away from the strange oddities of the modern world, is a world plagued with other horrors. Natural nightmares.

Humans in the world-below are savages and unintelligent to the ways of science or mathematics. They are uncivilized and cruel. Taking whatever they so wish to, and having no regard for their rival cities, villages, and tribes. But unlike their counterparts living high-above in the material-like castles; these humans experience life as it should be.

These humans, down below in the midst of natural water and landscapes, may very well have a truer sense of community and a truer sense of love and affection. With the good, also comes along the bad and the ugly.

Such hostility and brute force has overshadowed any sense of protection or safety. Either way, they live lives full of truth and risk.

But like everything else in life, change is inevitable.

Change whispers amongst those belonging to the natural world below.

Change, the Goddess of Opportunity and Prosperity, embraces the deceased old man who has starved to death. She comforts and warms the soul of the woman who is bleeding out as she gives birth to her only hope worth living for. Change wraps her delicate and understanding arms around the lost children of an ancient city down below; as they rummage through the piles of old technologies and resources worth scavenging for. She delights the young man and young woman who have each other in this otherwise cold and desolate world. 

Change works alone.

Yet as day turns to night, Change sees her opposition clearly now.

As the sounds of discarded blasts and tainted gun-fire ring out, War and Death have begun their onslaught on the humans down below. War, God of Discarded Life, and Death, Goddess of Tainted Souls, begin their ultimate campaign for ruination.

Yet Change is amongst those soldiers who are missing an arm, a leg, a soul, or a heart. She reminds them during their passage to eternal slumber, that their life was yet one of great sacrifice. She reassures them that the future generations to come will prosper once again after this long and dreary drought of human progress.

Change hurriedly protects every man and woman who’s life hangs in the very balance of Judgement now. For Change knows all-too well that Judgment holds no bias.

For unlike Change, War, Death, or any of the other gods and goddesses – Judgement speaks the final word on every matter. Judgment is God of Ultimate Authority and Rule. He is the very leader of the gods and goddesses, watching closely on every action imaginable and exacting his powers upon those he deems evil beyond repair; or even those who are good beyond reason.

As the mortals and machines of the physical world fight for survival, and as this play of truth and lies wages on; the true beginning of this mythos yet unfolds on the most auspicious of days.

For a single mortal man and a single mortal woman, have come together in union to exchange words which have long since been forgotten about in this world and reality of devastation and death.

For Passion, God of Livelihood, and Love, Goddess of Faithfulness, have granted a rare gift upon their otherwise mortal baby. Indeed, Passion and Love brought together these two brave and determined mortal souls to foster forward one such son who is at the center of this sprawling and epic tale of cheer and woe. A hero amongst the greatest of heroes. He will be one who’s name shan’t be forgotten even through the passage of time itself. For his mythos; his very legacy; spans multiple tomes, crosses paths with many different lores, and intersects with countless epics.

A son born of true love, born of real passion. His heart and soul are brighter than any such star, than any raging flame or fire, and stronger than any man or machine. His life, infused with the sacred powers of a half-god, is one of an underdog story.

His name…..

Azernos.

 

Forever in Your Debt,

R.S. Noel

 

Source of Photo: (click me to view photo credits!)