Mack Devlin
Bio
Writer, educator, and follower of Christ. Passionate about social justice. Living with a disability has taught me that knowledge is strength.
We are curators of emotions, explorers of the human psyche, and custodians of the narrative.
Stories (97/0)
Help Our Voices Soar
Why has it taken Vocal so long to establish a Disabled Voices Community or create a tag specifically for stories about or involving disabilities? In an era where representation and inclusivity are paramount, the absence of such a community or tag is a disheartening reflection of the ongoing marginalization of select groups who have been marginalized longer than many others. However, the time for change has arrived. It is time for Vocal to heed the call, rectify this omission, and amplify the voices that have been silenced for far too long. Give us the tag.
By Mack Devlin11 months ago in Journal
- Runner-Up in Pitch Your Pilot Challenge
The CrewRunner-Up in Pitch Your Pilot Challenge
The Short Pitch: Lost in Space meets Firefly meets The Office. The Pitch: Three brothers, the anxious and pragmatic Simon Shelby, a master of navigating bureaucracy, the sarcastic hoverchair-bound Henry, a reckless pilot, and the emotionally sensitive hulk Dylan, a competent and disciplined soldier, after inheriting a spaceship from their father, attempt to make a living in a galaxy rife with crime, corruption, societal decay, and bureaucratic two-stepping. Simon wants to pursue legitimate business ventures, instead of executing Dylan’s mercenary contracts or engaging in Henry’s illegal smuggling. The season begins in the wake of a disaster, referenced only in flashbacks. Simon and his brothers are about to transition into the legitimate business of luxury transport when they discover that a wrong turn has dropped them 150 years into the future. Galactic bureaucracy has grown completely out of control and getting their transport certification is going to require six months of observation by a government functionary, Polly Whetstone.
By Mack Devlin11 months ago in Humor
Art is Where Words Fail
Art possesses an extraordinary capacity to transcend the limitations of explicit verbal communication, connecting with humans on a profound level, reaching down into their souls, and finding a point of visceral connection. We find this in the works of influential artists such as William Blake and Hieronymus Bosch, who skillfully evoke emotions, ideas, and experiences through their creations.
By Mack Devlin11 months ago in Art
Congratulations to the Winners
The struggles of African Americans and women, as important as they are, have often overshadowed the struggles of Native Americans, an increasingly marginalized minority. Between 1950 and 1970, the American Indian rights movement experienced some major civic victories, but by the 1970s, Native Americans were still living in the "gray areas of society" and facing enormous social difficulties. By tracing the course of the Native American rights movement, its success or failure should become apparent, but this is one social movement that may not be so easily judged.
By Mack Devlin11 months ago in FYI
Devil or Angel
In the world of writing, where words hatch into stories ready to take flight, many diverse voices are yearning to be heard. Among them are those who face unique challenges due to physical limitations, their bodies unable to keep pace with the rapid flow of thoughts and ideas. But in this age of innovation and possibilities, a new tool has emerged, offering a new path to empowerment: artificial intelligence.
By Mack Devlin11 months ago in Humans
Fair Hand
Jacob wheeled up to the rusty bench where Grandpa sat. A narrow beam of sunlight painted radiant warmth on his face, cold metal of his push rims contrasting with the sun’s heat. In the oak branches above, grey squirrels leaped between branches holding acorns. Amazing feats of agility. Tucked away in the safety of a high bough, a disgusted red squirrel tittered.
By Mack Devlin11 months ago in Fiction
You Can’t Boycott Jesus
The television show "The Chosen" has been met with absurd and disproportionate reactions from specific viewers due to the presence of a miniature Pride flag. The flag appeared in a behind-the-scenes photo, not as an element in the show. The overreaction, calling for boycotts or bans, undermines the show's primary purpose of depicting the life of Jesus Christ—a figure known for preaching love, tolerance, and acceptance. In examining this incident, it is crucial to reflect on the core teachings of Jesus and the need to foster understanding and compassion in our society.
By Mack Devlin11 months ago in Humans