Jason S. Harry

I walked into a Family Dollar Store this afternoon, intending on replenishing my supply of body wash. Lost in the aisles, I found myself alone by a shelf where they keep pens. It instantaneously caused me to become self-aware of something someone recently told me about writing: “Always write in pencil on paper, the way it has always been done. A machine only gets in the way.” I was never against the idea- the first serious thing I ever wrote was written on a paper pad in the backyard and became an instant hit among the close family members I showed it to. Over time, I did stray to my laptop. It seemed easier, the way professionals might do it even though it’s doubtful I will be become skilled the way they are. A true writer finds his or her own way of doing things. (Leave them alone at all times if you happen to stumble across one. I’ve heard they can become dangerous if they turn against you.) As I stood in the aisle that didn’t contain soap, I wondered if they h...

I have no religion that belongs to me or me to it. For many years, however, I have studied the Tao Te Ching and will likely do so for the remainder of my earthly existence. The Tao was written long before the Bible. I often think humanity should have embraced the Tao and stopped there, but I understand that a good many people needed more. Surely someone could write something better that did not involve such simplicity. (Man loves to complicate the world.) Many religious texts followed as did war because some folks see their god as all-knowing, better than any other god and will fight ferociously to make you believe it. I am fond of the Tao because there are no rules. Taoism is not a religion. It’s not suggested that I idolize one god for I am god and so are you. So is every flower in every garden or the faintest star that causes you wonder in the night. By seeing everyone as god, I live to serve all people instead of one. By observing nature as god I appreciate and v...