Changing Times

While looking for one of my stories on Vocal this morning, I noticed that my latest story was published 23 days ago. I was sincerely surprised that nearly a month has passed since I've submitted so much as a random thought here, much less a poem or story. It's been exactly a month since my last Top Story and that's really no surprise, considering. You gotta' write 'em to have them recognized, right?

Life has been upside-down for a while, but that usually doesn't keep me from writing here. I was also invited to submit an original story about one of my favorite things to an online outdoor magazine and it was accepted and paid for, and I've just completed a second one to be submitted soon. So, some of my time has been spent on good things.

To top things off, I've been working a temporary side job in the afternoons. How many readers know (or care) I'm proficient with drywall patchwork and finishing among other construction-related things? Those old-school skills come in handy when you need to finance a move. The old bones move a little slower, but the touch hasn't been lost yet.

When I honestly consider the reason for the lapse, though, I have to admit that it's been at least a semi-conscious decision. The fact is, there's been a shift in the paradigm on the platform and it's messing with my head a bit. At least one friend here has noticed it, too and has been silent.

Don't worry; I'm not going to go on a rant about the specifics. Those of you who know me will probably already know, and others will probably dismiss it with “Okay, Boomer!” Feel free. I wear the label proudly and I hope you'll be as proud of whatever yours may be after being around for 68 years.

I'm also not going to quit writing on this platform, because I still believe it's the best of its kind around. (Sorry, kids, you're stuck with me!)

I have been spending as much time reading your work here as possible, and I've managed to sneak in a comment or two. I have a lot of catching up to do and I will get there. It's not an obligation, but a pleasure. I'm still amazed to be surrounded by such talented creators. I love you guys and gals.

So, the point of this story and its title are related to the song I've posted. It's all about change and no one wrote about it more poignantly than Bob Dylan, in my humble opinion. What's more, it's a timeless song with a title to match. Change is inevitable and we either roll with it or get rolled over. I've been rolling for a long time and I don't intend to stop. On the other hand, I don't have to like it.

I do, however, like being here. So I'll be ramping up my publishing again and I'll try to keep things interesting. I've also been neglecting unofficial challenges and I'm guessing I'll be able to find some to contribute to.

Doc has not left the building. There's more to come, including the comments on your stories that have been absent. I'm not ready to throw in the towel. Not by a long shot. Or a short pass. Or – well, never mind. At least I won't run out of clichés.

Maybe it's time to stretch my legs a bit and see what other communities I can wander into. Maybe not. Time will tell. (Not out of clichés yet) One thing you can probably count on is, whatever comes up probably won't be “normal.”

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Thanks for taking a few minutes to read this nonsense! If you enjoyed it or care to offer some feedback, you know the drill. ;)