WORDS TO BELIEVE [AND FEEL] Short Stories about Words to Believe, from a simple guy from Deer Isle, Maine. FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS All net profits from this E-Book will be donated to Maine Behavioral Healthcare. Thank you for saving, and rebuilding, lives. WHAT THIS BOOK IS ABOUT Many years ago, my son asked me a tough question: ‘Dad, what else do you believe?’ I couldn’t answer it, and so began writing short stories to answer his question for him, and for me. For some unknown reason, I have found writing to be therapeutic, urges me to clarify feelings, and enlightens in some ways. Many of these stories were born along the shores and islands of Eggemoggin Reach, which borders the western shores of Deer Isle, Down East Maine. In order to provide a family heirloom, I consolidated some of them to put together a little book which tries to wrap my arms around a theme from all those teachings of the great books and wise men, perhaps best described by a quote from the most influential philosopher of his time, whose name was Aristotle: ‘Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.’ It is the most consistent theme integrated in all revered teachings. That is what this simple book is mostly about... Together with thoughts, guided in part by me writing this book, on ways to move grief and heartache to soften, rather than harden, a heart. BACKGROUND Many years ago, my son innocently asked me a tough question when I shared my feelings about the importance of being honest and kind. After a long pause, he then asked: ‘Dad, what else do you believe?’ And I knew, really, at that moment, he was asking me: ‘Who am I?’ I actually stuttered, and was self-embarrassed, and changed the topic to the Boston Bruins, which he and I knew all the answers to. But it bothered me so much I began writing down some answers to his question that same night. I thought of simple words, and found that a single word, in the right context, and shared by real stories, may provide a tool to guide. And as I was defining my words and writing my stories, I understood I was writing it not only for him, but also mostly for me. There is, in my mind, no more important [and answerable] question, because when you are able to effortlessly and comfortably express what you truly believe and feel, out-loud and clear, you will know who you are…. and then, this world, becomes your world. For a hardcover version visit amazon.com or wordstobelieve.com