If there is one thing I’ve learned over the last several hundred days, it’s that trying to write during a pandemic is like trying to draw a portrait blindfolded, with a white crayon, using only your right foot. It’s hard.
Literary inspiration is a fickle creature, it doesn’t just jump out of the wallpaper and choke you. Inspiration is a tree. You plant it, you water it, you wait for the sapling to grow, you prune it, water it, and check for apples.
The pandemic, however, was an industrial wood chipper. The pandemic turned my inspiration into organic mulch.
Before the pandemic, my columns/blogs were based on social experiences, regional travel, and meeting new friends. But without socialization, I had nothing to draw from except the letters and emails I started getting.
And, boy, was I getting some humdingers.
Often the letters I received were sad ones. Some letters were downright tragic and their words stuck with me. I once received a sober card from a guy in New York City who worked in a hospital during the apex of the COVID crisis. It was almost more than I could read.
Also, I received lots of correspondence from kids—I didn’t think children even read my words. This just shows you how desperate the world became.
But the hardest part for me, by far, was finding the stamina to keep working on new books. In addition to this column I produce books that often go on to become doorstops, paperweights, and fly swatters. Writing a book is a time-intensive process for a slow guy like me. And this process gets even harder without the flowering tree of inspiration.
I don’t mean to reach for melodrama, but writing during a pandemic was one of more difficult things I’ve ever done except for loading the dishwasher with my wife breathing over my shoulder.
Until last year I never realized how much motivation I found in day-to-day socialization. I’ve always been pretty social. I’ve always been involved in local bands, gone to church, or been an active member in a drinking club with a softball problem. Without these diversions I was adrift without a tiller.
And, well, that’s where you came in.
You might never know how much you helped me, but you did. You got me through some tough days with your kind words, personal messages, and uplifting sentiments. You gave me a boost. You hung in there with me, you tolerated some bad writing, lots of misspellings, and some realy pore gramar.
But above all, you encouraged me. And someday, when we are all playing harps together on Cloud Ten, dressed in terry cloth bathrobes, I will tell you in person how much you helped me.
There were some mornings when I felt like someone had sucked the color out of my world. I would feel so down in the dumps that you could have squeegeed me off the floor. Many days I’d wonder how on Earth I was going to keep writing.
But then you’d send me a sweet email about your elderly mother’s operation. Or you’d tell me stories about angels, miracles, adoptions, pet rescues, or your personal triumphs.
You sent Andy Griffith T-shirts in the mail. You colored pictures for me (Kendall, age 7, I’m looking at you). You kept me going.
You mailed handwritten letters about what you did at school. You told me about random acts of goodwill in your neighborhood. You called me from your nursing home just to sing me “Happy Birthday.” Your book club video-called me and pretended I was important.
In other words, you gave me something to do. At times last year I thought about giving up this column. I’ve been writing every day for over eight years now and I was wondering if the pandemic was my cue to exit stage left.
I have no illusions. I know I’m no great contribution to the literary world. You don’t have to tell me that. I’m an average guy who produces 800 words each day. Sometimes they suck. Every now and then I do all right, but sometimes my words are effective non-narcotic sleep aids.
Believe me, I’m okay with this. Because I’ve met big-time authors at book events who write prose so beautifully that nobody but the “top critics” even understands what the heck they’re saying. I deeply admire these authors.
But that ain’t me. It’s never gonna be me. I don’t want to be that person. I’m a Michelob guy. A blue collar writer who used to make his living reading a tape measure and operating radial saws.
But when I thought the sun was setting on this little column, you made me keep moving. You made a hard year a little better. You improved every day with your kindness.
You reintroduced me to things I believe in. You helped me remain inspired. You will never know how sincerely I appreciate the love and friendship you have given me. For this gift I thank you.
I guess what I’m trying to say is, you have made me a better riter.
138 comments
Sarah Filliter - June 20, 2021 7:05 am
Sean, I can’t thank YOU enough for keeping me going these past hundred days. Your honesty and heartfelt storytelling helped me through some down days. Please keep riting. You are indeed making a difference in many lives.
Camilla Lee - June 20, 2021 7:42 am
Wonderful piece. Keep on keeping on, you are a pleasure to read.
Linda Walton - June 20, 2021 7:43 pm
Yep, keep on keeping on. We had a a weather guy in Macon, GA (Bill Powell) who always ended the weather with the words – Keep on keeping on!! You just never know what is around the corner, and who might just needs your words on that particular day. Love and blessings to you and your family.
Tinkabell - June 21, 2021 12:11 am
Sean, you gave us something to ponder besides ourselves and our novels. I SO appreciate a FB friend for introducing you. I haven’t enjoyed anyone’s column since Lewis Grizzard left us FAR TOO early. ❤
Carolyn Trammell - June 20, 2021 8:17 am
You are a very good and kind person. We all need more of that. Thank you, my Friend.
Laura Wilson - June 20, 2021 8:42 am
And you will never know how much better you have made every day better since my friend introduced me to your writings. Starting my day reading your column is the best part of my day and puts my brain in the right frame of mind. So thanks be to you! I just ordered one of your books and something tells me I’ll be ordering all of them eventually.
Kay Williams - June 20, 2021 8:51 am
Always happy to help out! 🤗 You’re one of my favorite riters.
Gail Yancey - June 20, 2021 9:39 am
I love your writing, Sean!!! You make me laugh and feel happy each time I read your column. You find the goodness and humor in life. And you always remember to Be Kind!!!
Gail from Richmond, Virginia
Kate - June 20, 2021 10:03 am
Sean, I like you best when you are funny, because there seems to be so little humor around these days, but you help us remember all the good things in life too, the kindness, the ladies that bake, the amazing men and women that sacrifice so others can have more, the laughter and innocence of children, all those that love, especially those who love the ones who most need it. You remind us everyday of the goodness in the world and that is a precious thing.
Donna - June 20, 2021 10:03 am
Thank you for continuing this column. I found your daily contribution only within the last few months after suffering thru six years of depression brought on by my husband’s death. It has been the salve to bring me out of the self centered isolation. Thank you, thank you. I feel as tho you are the supporting family member who gets my need for a personal conversation each day, letting me share a moment in your day.
Susan N - June 20, 2021 10:09 am
Sean,
Reading your column is like having dessert for breakfast each morning, even during a pandemic. What a great way to start the day! Love your honesty, kindness and humor. So thankful you decided to keep writing!!
Bob - June 20, 2021 10:27 am
Sean, I am actually glad you are a beer drinker, drive an old truck, have dogs, and a great wife you love very much. I am also glad that you share your struggles with us, and are honest that life is not always easy. Why, because so many of us can relate to you, you are one of us. Growing up, especially in English class it seems we are taught to be a writer or to be a success you have to be brilliant, extremely good looking, and perhaps wealthy and come from a certain family or group of people. You give us all hope by telling us and showing us that regardless of who we are, and where we may have started out, that we all have so much possibility and can achieve and be successful beyond our wildest dreams. You really are an amazing writer and how you are able to write everyday for so many years is more than outstanding, it is extraordinary, and when you add to that all the people that read you everyday and LOVE what you read, it is even more extraordinary. Thanks for being our miracle.
Suellen - June 20, 2021 10:38 am
I think all of us have been a little shell shocked over the last year and now we are coming out of the fog and realizing what is really important to us and socializing is at the top of the list. It’s so wonderful to be back in church. The other night I was almost overwhelmed to hear our congregation singing Joyful Joyful We Adore You at the top of their lungs. We’ve been locked in and silenced for a year and your words kept a lot of people going. The fact that you’re an every day guy, one of us, is what we love about you Sean. You can see the beauty in people that others overlook. Please never stop writing.
Bar - June 20, 2021 10:49 am
You’re a treasure, Sean; and you make your readers better peeple.
Catherine Birchfield - June 20, 2021 10:58 am
Oh my gracious! You scared the Bajesus outa me! I thought you were saying goodbye to this daily column!
You and coffee are my morning ritual. It should be yoga and the Bible, but it’s you. Thank YOU!
Karen Holderman - June 20, 2021 11:22 am
Sean, I saw so many words from the responses that describe your daily writing. Dessert for breakfast, heart messages and so many more. We relate to you and what you write about. I start my day with you and couldn’t imagine not doing that. You are brilliant because you relate to your readers. Thank you.
Dr. Dennis Stalvey, aka Preacher Dennis the Storyteller - www.preacherdennisthestoryteller.com - June 20, 2021 11:00 am
The advertising world has tried to convince us we are all “nobodies” unless we purchase and use the thing they are hyping. They try to convince us all their items will store neatly under our beds or in our kitchen cabinets. That inflated rhetoric has carried over into many areas of our lives trying to convince us we fall short of almost being good or an expert at something. What has spoken so well to me from what you share in your 800 words, is that many of us are more alike than we may think. There seems to be an underlying unhappiness in many people who think they have never measured up. Measured up to who? I’m not saying you should chunk the idea of “never making the great contribution to the literary world,” because we can all improve something in or about ourselves. Goals should be like stars in the heavens, look up, drive down a stake at the location of a star, and when you get there, pull up the stake and mark one just a little bit further. Sometimes we may have arrived at being the greatest and not even realize it. You write from heart to heart to heart and then more hearts. That is worth more than all the accolades and awards in the world. One thing which has helped me across the years is a quote Bishop Arthur J. Moore used at his retirement message. He said, “At a time like this, I am reminded of an inscription on a sundial in an ancient garden which says, ‘I only record the sunny moments.'” What all my diatribe and pontification means is this: if you stop speaking heart language, then you have pulled the cord on our life support. That is how important what you say is to many of us. Even if you simply sent the next communication with nothing more than your name and tomorrow’s date followed by a blank sheet of paper, it would speak to us that you are still there. Many of us already know we don’t quite measure up. I’ve got to hurry and act now so the TV commercial will double my offer for just $19.95 plus shipping and handling. I think I have a little more space under my bed to store it when it arrives. But I am leaving room in my heart to hear from you and from many of those who make replies to your messages. We understand heart messages. Thank you.
Karen Snyder - June 20, 2021 8:13 pm
Gee whiz! Two wise, heart-touching fellas in one post! How fortunate are we?
haroldmorgan52252459 - June 20, 2021 11:15 am
KEEP ON TELLIN ur STORIES! KEEP on TELLIN ur STORIES SEAN!
MermaidGrammy - June 20, 2021 11:20 am
And you have made us all better people. Your article is the beginning of my daily devotion.
Christian Vowell - June 20, 2021 11:21 am
Your column is the first thing I read every morning. Your writing is needed. It’s honest.
Dave Williams - June 20, 2021 11:23 am
Great writers don’t “create” as much as they reflect and interpret the human experience in ways that give their readers insight. In the American tradition of Mark Twain, H.L. Menken, Will Rogers and maybe even P.J. O’Rourke, your humor and self effacing perspective cuts to the chase of every topic you share. Even the bad ones are worth reading 🙂 Keep it up, you enrich us.
Te (pronounced "Tay") - June 20, 2021 11:26 am
Hon ( I can call you that because I’m old enough to be your grandmother – I could call you “sonny,” but that would be too much), you are the start of my day, and then because a pipe burst or a tree fell on the house. I’ve laughed, bawled, chuckled and communed telepathically with friends who I know are also reading your column. So DON’T YOU DARE THINK OF STOPPING! Where else are we going to get a sane voice in a time of twilight zone/zombie apocalypse/insane-demic? I mean, like, really?
Louise Johnson - June 20, 2021 11:32 am
I can’t imagine a day without you and you wonderful musings on the world around you.
Nancy - June 20, 2021 11:32 am
You’re a real good riter. Auto correct tried to make that river.
I enjoy your work so much. We all get down in the dumps sometimes. You manage to pull yourself out and bring others with you.
Have a wonderful day.
Erich - June 20, 2021 11:35 am
Love your work! Keep that light shining bright.
Robin Royce - June 20, 2021 11:41 am
I found your column early on in the pandemic. I’ve yet to find one that sucks! Thank you for being there for all of us. Love your refreshing perspectives !
Sarah - June 20, 2021 11:43 am
Hah!! Sean, YOU are the one who made it desirable to wake up each day. YOU are the motivation to keep going so I can see what you’ll say next! I’ve had a dreadful year, husband died, got cancer, termites found in home, daughter and grandchildren moved 8 hours away from formerly 2 hours away, AND my dog was taken (stolen). But finding your words each morning in my email really has made all this trouble easier to bear. Thank you for caring for us out here in our challenging times, as we struggle to keep going. Your stories are always inspirational. Please don’t even think about quitting!!!!!
Donna - June 20, 2021 11:46 am
We may have made you a better riter…but you make us want to be a better person.
Thank you
Carolyn Waldron - June 20, 2021 11:46 am
Please don’t take away this moment of pleasure from me! Your column is a good source of “life” as it really is. You got me through the pandemic. Thakn out!
Carolyn Waldron - June 20, 2021 11:48 am
No no no…uoy
Ned Wheland - June 20, 2021 11:51 am
I found you about 6 years ago. Since that day, you and I begin our morning together over coffee. I face the new day a better person due to your column. You are an inspiration and you also love dogs; what can be better. Never give up. In 6 years, I have never commented on your column, but just the thought of it no longer there waiting for me and my coffee compelled me to let you know that in addition to those frequent commenters, there are also many of us silent readers.
Jimmy Stewart - June 20, 2021 1:53 pm
I’m with you NED!!!
JUDY E KIRKPATRICK - June 20, 2021 11:52 am
I started reading your columns after being introduced to them by a friend I met through dog rescue. The dog has now passed away, but we have remained friends. In fact, he is my best friend and I love him dearly. We both read your column every morning. And often text each other saying things like, “Sean has a good one today” or “Sean is going to make you cry this morning.” I suffer from depression like you. You have kept me going many days. In fact, I have a folder on my Ipad called ‘Saved Messages.’ It’s full of your columns. You’re just what we need sometimes with your down to earth, common sense, no BS columns. You give me a reason to get out of bed in the morning. Don’t ever stop.
Helen - June 20, 2021 11:53 am
I would love to write something validating and meaningful and give you the ump you need to write just one more column. (I’m a psychotherapist and want-to-be writer, so tests what I do, every day). I too get dry-spells and don’t feel like I’ve helped enough or a client quits me when I’ve zigged instead of zagged. Most pandemic days, I just wanted to quit, but a little voice in my head, or my husband sitting in his broken recliner said, “well, you’ve got to do something, so keep doing this until something else happens.” I just want you to know that you keep me going and on many days my clients need you to keep me going (no pressure intended). If you are ever north of the Mason/Dixon line, and literally in Mason, Michigan, reach out to me and I’ll make you THE best lasagna you’ve ever had! Your words means that much to me!
elizabethroosje - June 20, 2021 11:54 am
Sean, also thank YOU, I have been so blessed to be able to read your column every day ❤
Sharon Stevens - June 20, 2021 11:55 am
I love your writing I should have already told you that on Memorial Day we had some of our older friends over. After we had eaten, my husband read your column from that day and everyone loved it and wanted to know who had written that. Thanks for your ability to inspire us each day. You really get it!
joan moore - June 20, 2021 11:55 am
I bet most people enjoy reading about people like them, by a person who has his fingers on the pulse of the country, who probably doesn’t give a flip about ” top critics!” Put another way, you are the life support for many, keep writing for us!
Jan - June 20, 2021 11:56 am
Thank you, Sean, for sharing both your life and the lens you see life through. You gave us something to look forward to each morning and more importantly showed us how to see the people and activities of daily life with love and patience.
Debbie - June 20, 2021 11:57 am
Keep on writing, Sean! I just purchased the Summer Issue of OKRA magazine because your name was on the front cover. Can’t wait to read the article on Storytellers of the South!
Clay Bishop - June 20, 2021 11:59 am
You will never know the multitudes of people you have helped get through the pandemic, have made us smile, and have inspired us to keep going. Thank you.
Suzi - June 20, 2021 12:08 pm
Don’t ever stop, Sean, you kept US going thru this dark time!
Janet - June 20, 2021 12:08 pm
Before I even begin my spiritual reading and time with the Divine every morning, I read your column, Sean. You are truly the boost I need to start my day. You make me laugh, cry, ponder and grateful! Thank you so much for the time and energy you take to share with us a little bit of Heaven, YOU!
Nancy Buckler - June 20, 2021 12:10 pm
Haha😂 You are the best kind of writer … you’ve lifted me up during this year! Your words make me laugh, Thryve made me cry. Don’t sell yourself short, Sean… you make a difference in my day and I’m sure in many lives♥️ Never stop writing or singing or finding the good or misspelling words😂on purpose.
love from a fan in FL🌤🌴
Nancy
Molly - June 20, 2021 12:17 pm
Each day you open our eyes to the beauty around us. Just sitting there waiting for us to see it! Thank you! Thank you for being here each day to help us see the beauty!!
Jimmy Stewart - June 20, 2021 1:56 pm
Beautiful sentiment Molly. So true! Sean helps us really see people as they truly are, all around us every day. That’s why I don’t miss. Sean’s helps me be a better me every day.
Jean - June 20, 2021 12:19 pm
Sean…..riter…..I look for your email every day. You are a blessing to so many. I don’t think I would feel right if I didn’t read your blog every day. Keep on keeping on……we love you!
Martha Stewart - June 20, 2021 12:23 pm
I just discovered a few weeks ago. I was born and raised and still live in Northeast Florida. I love my space. I truly enjoy your work and it reminds me of so many parts of my life. Praying you have a blessed day. Keep on writing!
Nick - June 20, 2021 12:26 pm
Sean, as I mentioned in your Miracle column, those of us who claim to follow Christ must do so using the talents He has given us to serve others, that we might encourage one another unto love and good deeds. You do this wonderfully! Keep on keeping on!
Al Cato - June 20, 2021 12:30 pm
Often in the real world, the people who make the biggest difference in the lives of others have no idea of their impact. They continue to do what they do because that’s what they do. Softly, quietly, no fanfare but consistently and predictably they show up always. I say this about you with great love and respect for what you do for us.Blessings always for you and family.
Christopher Smith - June 20, 2021 12:31 pm
Thanks Sean. You’ve made us better readers!
Leslie in NC - June 20, 2021 12:41 pm
Sean, your tender heart is reflected every day in your stories. Your column is what I read first thing every morning before I ever open anything else, so I can get a dose of what is good in this crazy world we live in. Please don’t ever stop writing your stories of hope, humor, love and the goodness of people you encounter. I think I speak for most of us who are your dedicated readers when I say I love your honesty and the way you share your feelings with us from your heart. And contrary to what you might think, to me you are indeed a great contributor to the literary world.
KAY JENKINS - June 20, 2021 12:41 pm
We cannot all do great things, but we can all do small things with great love. This quote from Mother Teresa exemplifies your column. Thanks!!
D masmar - June 20, 2021 12:45 pm
I couldn’t start my computer day without your thought provokinig articles–
Joyce Anders - June 20, 2021 12:49 pm
Thank you, Sean, for persevering. You help this 84 year old gal remember to not give up.
B. D. Daniel - June 20, 2021 12:58 pm
Back at you! At age 84 I have to admit the last year has been rough from an emotional point of view. My visual contacts, other than my beautiful wife, have been mostly through Zoom. But the highlight of my day has been your column. Boy howdy, how much you have meant to start my day. May God continue to bless you and your wife and dogs and the people who share their stories with you. Makes us all one big community.
Mary - June 20, 2021 1:04 pm
You have kept me going everyday and I thank you, again, for writing your columns. They are so very uplifting! Thank you and never stop righting😜😊.
Timmy D - June 20, 2021 1:09 pm
You need a “donation” button! The value we receive from your daily column is priceless (I didn’t saw worthless!!!)
It would be like that diner you wrote about. We could leave you what we can.
Really appreciate finding you (Don Surber blog mentioned you a few weeks back)
Charaleen - June 20, 2021 1:11 pm
❤
Rich Owen - June 20, 2021 1:11 pm
Maybe not a “great contribution to the literary world” but a larger than life contribution to humanity. Keep it going, Sean
Melanie - June 20, 2021 1:12 pm
You know that sound the record player makes when the needle is dragged over the record? That’s what everybody heard when they envisioned a world without your writing. But I do think you should take at least a week or two off every year for writing-free vacation. We all have our favorites and a “Best Of” column for a week or two would be fun. (Michelob? really? never would’ve guessed that one). And Happy Fathers Day, Sean from all your four-legged babies. They’re the only kids we’ve got too and I make sure that my hubby enjoys his day all the same.
Nick - June 20, 2021 1:15 pm
You made a hard year a little better. You improved every day with your kindness.
Lorene - June 20, 2021 1:16 pm
HAH! You got it all wrong, my BRFF (better riter friend forever). It is all of us out here wherever we are who can’t wait to read your words of the day who should be thanking you. THANK YOU!
Rhonda Hooks - June 20, 2021 1:25 pm
Sean. Have you ever visited the Ava Maria Grotto in Cullman Alabama?
You might find inspiration there as well
Martha Gwen Sibert - June 20, 2021 1:35 pm
Sean, PLEASE don’t stop writing this column!! Your words touch my heart every day.
Sharon - June 20, 2021 1:36 pm
Sean, I recently saw one of your posts on FaceBook and I was intrigued. I immediately subscribed to receive a post everyday in my email box and I want to tell you how much I look forward them every morning. You are down to earth and really touch my heart, please don’t ever stop. I don’t care who the people are who are critical, what do they know? I’m a Special Ed. teacher with a masters degree who has been an avid reader my entire life. I only wish that I’d found you sooner. Please continue spreading your love, wisdom and joy to the world. You are truly very special. Have a beautiful day:)
Susan Marler - June 20, 2021 1:37 pm
You kept us going! I look forward to your email every morning, it’s one of the first things I do to raise my spirits to move on through my day. Thank you Sean
Bob E - June 20, 2021 1:41 pm
Sean,
Keep plugging
Keep writing
Keep inspiring
Keep entertaining
Keep loving
Keep your chins up
Keep being a positive asset to your faithful dependent needy readers.
Bev London - June 20, 2021 1:43 pm
Keep on, keeping on. I love that one day you make me laugh, another day you make me cry. I love that you make me realize we all have our challenges, but most importantly – I love that you, even though you don’t know me, make me realize just how blessed I am.
I am happy to have met MM, the Math Teacher and the whole host of others you have happened upon since I found your missives.
I’m glad you and your writings have weathered the storm we will remember as COVID, may it soon become a distant memory for all of us.
Dee F.Hoomes Wichman - June 20, 2021 1:44 pm
I always enjoy your writing because you are real. I saw the pictures of East Brewton after the tornado yesterday and it made me sad. I do hope your wife’s family had no problems. My own out in Damascus is just suffering from no electricity but that is okay. That’s why kerosene lamps exist. When I was young there was no tv, no running water or indoor plumbing but I scarcely noticed because I was too busy playing outside or shelling peas or beans. Today’s children are sadly lacking in imagination so I am really pleased to hear that many read your stories and consider you a friend. I love you and I consider you a friend so please keep up the good work.
C Maddox - June 20, 2021 1:46 pm
Your words make me feel badly that I haven’t let you know how much I look forward to your daily writings. So glad others have!
Lander - June 20, 2021 1:49 pm
Glad to hear it. That’s gooder’n snuff.
Joan Lewis - June 20, 2021 2:05 pm
You are one of the few writers I would ever care to meet just because you seem so down to earth. Others may write lofty, well-written prose, but I’d rather meet the one who writes like my life. Thank you, Sean, for keeping us entertained!
SARAH - June 20, 2021 2:06 pm
Sending you a big ♥️! THANK YOU! Erin Napier of hgtv/Discovery+ shared one of your posts in December 2020 and I’ve been hooked ever since. You’re writing was salve for my broken empty heart. Each morning, I look forward to reading your words. A gift every morning. You’ve been such a blessing to me. Thank you for pushing through your struggle and sharing with us. It made our struggles more bearable.
Sharon O - June 20, 2021 2:17 pm
I love your ✍️ I have many of your books sitting on my shelf above my computer. Don’t give up, or in or stop. God has given you a gift. Bless others now and receive that amazing gift.
From a reader in Oregon
Paula - June 20, 2021 2:27 pm
You make the world a better place. I can “feel” your writings, and that is good. Thank you for checking in on us, and inviting us to be part of a family!
Richard C. - June 20, 2021 2:37 pm
The ghost of Lewis Grizzard will haunt you if you stop writing this column.
Beverly Wynn Bua - June 20, 2021 2:40 pm
Sean, Please don’t stop
Your daily column…. I’m 86 years old (young) and look forward every day to taking a moment &!read your words… I feel like I’m listening to an old friend telling me stories….. most of my long time friends have passed…. Thank you
Lisa - June 20, 2021 2:48 pm
Do NOT stop your column… PLEASE!! My name is Lisa & I am a pediatric social worker from Mobile. This past year has been heck personally & professionally. I lost my Dad in January due to C-19. I sent him your books for Christmas & we loved them. Not as doorstops but a real life look at things we have experienced. Thank you for writing them down & sharing with those outside of you circle! Know that you are a BLESSING!! Happy Daddy Dog’s Day!!!
Helen De Prima - June 20, 2021 2:54 pm
Never give up your daily offering; your words are the unseen glue that holds the world together.
Barbara vallejo - June 20, 2021 3:00 pm
Thank you from all of us who are just trying to get through another day. You make it easier and always give us something to look forward to.
Patricia Schmaltz - June 20, 2021 3:05 pm
Sean, there is nothing more comfy/cozy than a terrycloth bathrobe.. with Duluth sheepskin slippers. .. Oh, wait, there is YOU! You continue to pay it forward by prying my eyes open to the kindness of man.. and the charming area where we live (FWB). Thank you! PLUS.. you’ve inspired me on multiple occasions when my book writing was slow. When I get published, expect a signed copy on your doorstop.. which will also make a Sweet Tea coaster.
Keith Beard - June 20, 2021 3:08 pm
Good column Sean I saw that a tornado hit Breton Alabama hope everyone is ok. Old Man in Louisiana that cares
Carol Fowler - June 20, 2021 3:10 pm
I “found” you during the pandemic and would have been heartbroken if you had stopped writing your column. I can’t tell you the number of times it has given me a lift I needed. I look forward to reading your column each and every day and often share it with others, Thank you so much!
Julie Moreno - June 20, 2021 3:23 pm
I work in a hospital. For the past year your daily words have made me smile, tear up and laugh out loud. THANK YOU for continuing to do what you do!!
Fleming Straughan - June 20, 2021 3:30 pm
Hang in there
Just like Our Daily Bread (for me)
Your writing makes my day (sometimes with a smile, sometimes “where’s my sleeve to wipe something,”
And sometimes a way Jesus puts understanding in my heart
Thank you
GodBless
Adele Maureen Brown - June 20, 2021 3:34 pm
I’m basically agreeing with everything everyone has said. Yours is the last email I read each morning and the only one I save for re-reading. I love you and am waiting for the arrival of the first boook of yours I’ve ordered. Got a feeling it won’t be my only one. Thank you and bless you and yours.
Barbara - June 20, 2021 3:52 pm
Rite on Sean! We needed you more than ever during this crazy pandemic time.
Erv Riley - June 20, 2021 5:00 pm
Bless you.
Maggie Priestaf - June 20, 2021 5:17 pm
I’m so glad…
Linda Moon - June 20, 2021 5:27 pm
Life is difficult. It’s been a very hard year. UNloading the dishwasher is My Guy’s job after several…I repeat…SEVERAL reminders from his wife (me). Every day my LIFE is improved after the kitchen’s cleaned up, and then I read “Sean of the South”. You see, it’s food for my soul. The words from your columns cleanse me. I thank you, Sean….oh, and God too, for making a part of my LIFE less difficult as I read and contemplate the words from each Author’s ritings.
Don - June 20, 2021 5:38 pm
Keep up the good work. I read you daily and should let you know more often how much I appreciate your skills. Especially when you describe things I often brake for granted. You make me stop and think and appreciate life more.
Hey, I’m an old Lewis Grizzled fan and I’m so happy to know you are too. He was great and you are too.
I sense you are discouraged but believe me, no one is writing the “southern-way-of-life” any better. Keep it up!
Lulu - June 20, 2021 5:41 pm
Aw Sean! Honey, your writing goes to so many hearts…you write straight to the heart and I pray you’ll not stop writing until God calls you home. I love, love, love your touching words. Thank you so much…and please continue writing every day so I can start each day with your sunshine.
Robyn - June 20, 2021 5:43 pm
Dear Sean, Thank you for getting me through the last 8 years. Since Sept 2019 it’s been the hardest. My mom died then and my brother in May 2020. Don’t know what i would have done without your daily thoughts. You make me smile and/or laugh and/or cry every day and i’ve needed that. You are and have a gift and i’m so grateful you share it with us. Always very sincerely, Robyn
Faye - June 20, 2021 5:50 pm
Sean, you light up the lives of your many fans! We love you because you reflect the times past where values, ethics and kindness was a given. With the onslaught of political correctness, hate and self centeredness that prevail in most social media, we find you to be a breath of fresh air. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us daily.
Martha Black - June 20, 2021 6:01 pm
And Thank you, Sean for staying in this race of life and doing what you do. You look inward & out and give us a perspective that assures us all along the way, we are all in this human race. Not a race of speed, but one of endurance. Everybody that runs this race and observing and passing along what they hear & see & learn & wonder about, enduring & encouraging is valuable to the other. It’s not a race of speed but one made up of all these things that uplifting & pushing us all to keep going at our pace & never give in. Not a race of speed, but finish & everything we did between. Everyone across the finish is a winner, regardless of placement. Keep going, keep observing, reporting, wondering, telling………… we need you.
Steve McCaleb - June 20, 2021 6:10 pm
Sean, I think you sell yourself waaaay short son. You provide hope, optimism and big dose of humanity to a world that has lost it’s everlovin’ mind. And hey, I could be wrong but from where I’m standing that’s a lot more important than a Pulitzer or a book of the month selection.
Easy for me to say…huh ?
Cheryl Andrews - June 20, 2021 6:17 pm
Sean, please don’t stop writing!. And please stop putting yourself down. I love true Southern writers and you are one of the great ones. I can hear the rocker on the porch, see the lightening bugs in the night sky, taste the sweet tea , smell the fried chicken and feel the cool breeze on my face after a shower when I read your pieces. But most importantly, i can feel your love and compassion in my heart. Thank you.
Tawanah Fagan Bagwell - June 20, 2021 6:20 pm
Back at you, Sean’ I look forward to your daily writings. You mean something to me and so many. Don’t ever think you aren’t good enough. You are uniquely you and that’s a good thing!
Carolyn D Cursio - June 20, 2021 6:33 pm
“I know I’m no great contribution to the literary world.” Oh, dear Sir, you have no idea how you are much, much more than that. A single sentence and you change someone’s entire thought process. Their day, their minds, their life.
Don’t cell yoreself short.
I found your books in the library this past year and I know of no other author who could hook me with their words. You are simply….real.
Carolyn
Catherine - June 20, 2021 6:47 pm
You are welcome! I just ordered Sean of the South Vol 1 and 2 for my mother in law and her sister. Keep writing, Sean
Sallie Snyder - June 20, 2021 6:56 pm
And YOU IMPROVED EVERY DAY WITH YOUR KINDNESS. Thank you! ❤️
Bruce - June 20, 2021 7:01 pm
See you on cloud 10😎
Cathy M - June 20, 2021 7:13 pm
Hey Sean, you better not stop writing. You would leave a hole in my heart and I don’t need that. You have it backward. You are the person who got your readers through the pandemic. Especially during the winter months and gray days. You were my church every morning when I could not go on Sunday. My two cups of coffee, your volume and a good devotional. After those were taken care of, I was reminded of all my blessings and gave g to hanks for each and every one of them. Nothing like a pandemic to put your priorities in order. So the thanks goes to you and don’t forget it. You are loved by many
Merry Lyn - June 20, 2021 7:15 pm
If you ever need material, contact me. Growing up, the baby of six kids, I have seen and heard a lot. As I told my mom once, the difference between us and other families is that our skeletons escaped the closet when other families didn’t. I love your column.
lynda - June 20, 2021 7:21 pm
Love you Sean. I’ve told you that before but its true. I don’t even know you in person; only the written word. Most of the time you make me cry, then other times a laugh out loud. Never stop writing. You are more awesome than you know.
nebraskannie - June 20, 2021 7:25 pm
Oh, Sean, I can’t say more than has already been said, but thank you. You’re one of us, you make me laugh out loud (nobody else does), and although I totally understand needing breaks, I hope you can continue reminding us to be better people.
Belinda Crowell - June 20, 2021 7:26 pm
Keep riting, Sean. I would miss you so much if you stopped. ❤️
Marilyn Mason - June 20, 2021 8:50 pm
🙂
Elizabeth Dunn - June 20, 2021 9:12 pm
Thank you, Sean, for helping to keep us sane these past months!
Curtis Daughdrill - June 20, 2021 9:19 pm
Some days you my eyes sweat, some days you make me laugh, but everyday you make me care! Thank you!!!
farm mom - June 20, 2021 9:58 pm
like I’m sure many others have said, YOU have been a bright spot in my life in the past year. and in many others’ lives too. I love to write, and am inspired to read another writer’s scribbles. especially since they are always positive. please never stop.
J scott - June 20, 2021 10:18 pm
Please.Do.Not.Give.Up! Your colum (see what I did there) is a big, BIG, part of your readers day. We have coffee together every morning. Love you!
Pps Heard that Brewton was hit pretty hard yesterday. Hope your wife’s family is ok.
Love from Georgia, jscott
Jeanette Powell - June 20, 2021 10:55 pm
Well now, this is interesting. My brother sent me a text telling me to go check you out and that I could thank him later. So it’s been great meeting you (and your commenters) today. I look forward to getting to know you! This sounds like just the place to start my day.
Bill Harris - June 20, 2021 11:24 pm
Dear Sean,
Your stories and the Bible are the only things I read on a regular basis. I get a blessing from both. Please never stop writing.
Thank you Sean
Steve McCaleb - June 21, 2021 1:14 am
Almost forgot….May the Lord bless and keep everybody affected by yesterday’s tornado in Brewton.
Debbie g - June 21, 2021 1:21 am
Sean without the storms. We could not appreciate the rainbows and you are definitely our rainbow. Please know how much we your readers love you and Jamie
Ann - June 21, 2021 1:26 am
I really think YOU have made a better US…. thank YOU,
Sherry Rodgers - June 21, 2021 1:26 am
You’re an amazing writer that I discovered during this pandemic and amidst the pandemic, election and racial injustice in the news each day, your column was like an oasis, a breath of fresh air. I love reading each and every one of them.
Stephen Disney - June 21, 2021 2:28 am
You have given us average people so much in your writings. Thank you -thank You so much.
Lucy Long - June 21, 2021 2:52 am
Thank YOU, Sean! Keep on riting please Sir!!
Deborah - June 21, 2021 3:32 am
Awww!! We love you too Sean!!😘😘😘
Christina - June 21, 2021 4:41 am
You are a gift, Sean!
Susan Kennedy - June 21, 2021 6:28 pm
We love you Sean!! Don’t quit!
Rob Mason - June 21, 2021 6:37 pm
Thanks for not stopping your blog.
There have been few columns I look forward to reading on a daily/near daily basis. Since Lewis Grizzard gave up writing for heavenly golfing, I have not had any that I particularly cared for. Then a friend introduced me to your blog.
I truly find it hard to commit to doing anything every day, except for eating and loving my wife, but, reading your blogs (almost daily) have been a reminder of the good stuff of life and community.
Keep up the good work…Hope it is not just work…keep up the good.
Rob
Joann Thompson - June 21, 2021 6:59 pm
I forwarded one of your emails to a church group of senior citizens last year, and several of them subscribed. They have told me how much they enjoyed them. You have lifted a lot of spirits in the past year. You keep up the good work, too.
Anne Arthur - June 21, 2021 8:36 pm
Well, the sheer amount of comments tells you that you cannot stop writing, Sean. You wipe the dirt off our world-lens and that’s so needed to see clear again. Write on, my friend, write on.
Cathy Williams - June 21, 2021 9:49 pm
I started reading this thinking you were gonna give us the terrible news that your were dropping your blog and I was prepared to be devastated. I was so happy to hear that you get inspired from your readers and that you will stick with it. Some folks compare you to Lewis Grizzard and I suppose, that in a way, you do communicate like he did. I had the opportunity to see him twice in person and to read his books and as good as he was, he didn’t have the compassion and warmth that you have and are able to articulate to your readers. Please, don’t ever think you aren’t worthwhile because you are. I start every morning with a good cup of coffee and your column
Patricia Schwindt - June 22, 2021 3:01 am
Cathy Williams, you said it perfectly. I used to read Lewis Grizzard, too, and he was great. But Sean – he tops anything I have ever read! I would be devastated if he quit this blog. I suspect a lot of us would. So, Sean, if you’re listening, don’t even think about it!
Erin Whitener - June 21, 2021 10:30 pm
You Mr. Sean are a creator and giver of real life stories providing laughter, Hope, joy, kindness, wit, giggles, imagination, empathy, a dose of reality, humble pie, teardrops and other human emotions too numerous to mention. Most people have to go to Disneyland (of course we couldn’t during the height of the pandemic) to get all of this, but all we had to do is tap or swipe each day and receive your special gifts. Don’t sell yourself short, because from where I sit, your special gift of literary work is food for the weary isolated souls who follow you. God blessed you greatly with this gift and knew just when we needed it most.
This weary soul thanks you!
Erin in Idaho
Leesa - June 21, 2021 11:27 pm
Last year my AL sister-in-law sent me your column about Apalachicola a city of which we have fond memories. I immediately subscribed to you column and ordered several of your books. Read those (no doorstops there!) Ordered more of your books. Read those. Please don’t stop writing. Your words inspire. They remind us of childhood memories, long forgotten neighbors or church members. You remind us of the gentle spirit of our world which can all too easily be overshadowed by the loud, demanding everyday world. Please don’t stop writing, Sean. We appreciate you. We need your observations and viewpoint. You’re a great riter.
Patricia Schwindt - June 22, 2021 3:11 am
Sean, a number of years ago, I worked as a hospital public relations director. Until one day, I quit and went to work for a man starting up his own hospital PR company. He was going to get me an office downtown, but meanwhile, I was to work at home. It took me about ten days to figure out that without the busy and active human interaction I was so accustomed to at my hospital job, my creativity simply dried up and blew away. I couldn’t write squat. The man I had quit a perfectly good job so I could start branching out in this field turned out to be what the Germans call an “Arschloch”. Luckily, I was able to get my old job back and worked happily for another couple of years until I stopped so I could get my master’s degree. Inspiration and creativity feed on human interaction! Even if it’s emails and letters! Please. Don’t. Stop. We. Need. You.
Cyn - June 22, 2021 1:57 pm
You did (and are continuing doing) the same for us. Thank you. 😍🙏🏻
Cyn - June 22, 2021 1:58 pm
And you did, and continue doing, the same for us. Thank you.😍🙏🏻
Shirley Jensen - June 22, 2021 9:19 pm
I love and look forward to reading your column everyday. Your stories arwbinspiring, encouraging and at times they make me cry, but that’s okay. Keep on doing what you’re doing!
Sheri K - June 23, 2021 2:51 am
Your writing inspires me to be a better member of this planet. You are a bright light that God has blessed our mornings with, full of love and beautiful emotion. Thank you for sharing yourself with us, your grateful friends! Love love love you!!
Kathy Sloan - June 23, 2021 1:47 pm
How in the universe I haven’t known about you until now escapes me. Please don’t ever stop writing your eight hundred words a day. I love to read them, laugh, tear up and wax nostalgic.
Catherine - July 5, 2021 1:17 pm
Thank you for hanging in there~your daily writings were instrumental in getting many of us through those down days when we could have little interaction with the outside world! BTW, you ain’t no pore riter, no matter what you say.