It’s okay to dream big. It could be the start of something big. Dream about it, think about it, dream about it. Keep it fresh in your mind. Write It Down. This will help you focus and ponder how to make it come true. Yes, you can make it come true. As you go along, a path will develop on how to get there.
Introspection
Thoughts On Writing
Thinking about writing, but not writing at all. You must begin to write, try to write, even if it’s just a few thoughts. Write them down.
Apples to Oranges
We are more than a figure of speech; we have substance, and we have appeal.
It’s been said that comparing apples to oranges is not possible because they have nothing in common. So you can’t compare them. It’s like comparing walnuts to zebras. No way can you compare the two because they are completely different.
As a phrase, ‘apples to oranges’ is a figure of speech, an idiom, that is used in reference to two other incomparable things.
So why not compare them anyway? The only thing they have in common is that they are fruit, so they say. But what else do they share? An apple is not an orange, and an orange is not an apple. That’s a known fact.
Are they alike, and how are they different?
First of all, we need to know what an apple and an orange are. What are the distinct characteristics of each?
An apple is tender, crisp, sweet, and mild in flavor. An orange is sweet-tart in flavor and high in vitamin C.
An apple is an edible fruit produced by an apple tree. An orange is an edible fruit produced by an orange tree.
The apple fruit is celebrated for its sensory appeal, nutritional density, and deep-rooted cultural symbolism.
The visual appeal of an orange lies in its vibrant, warm color, which is universally associated with energy, health, and sunshine.
Apple to Orange, “We have substance.” Orange to Apple, “Yes, we do. I have a thick skin, but juicy inside.” “I may be thin-skinned, but I have a crunchy, edible flesh inside, high in fiber, and vitamins too,” said Apple proudly.
“You know, Apple, come to think of it, we have appeal,” said Orange amusingly. “For being so different, we have visual appeal,” said Apple.
This appeal of an apple is characterized by a combination of vibrant, glossy skin and a range of appealing colors. Frequently, the red apple is depicted in, and symbolizes, themes of freshness, nutrition, and wellness
The appeal of the orange lies in its bright, vivid color, which is considered joyful, optimistic, and stimulating to the senses.
Although the apple and the orange share some similarities, they are not alike. They are in contrast to each other. The best comparison is in their differences.
They are fruits of choice and are usually displayed next to each other at a produce stand or in a supermarket case. Yes, their contrast in a produce case makes them very appealing.
Yes, apples and oranges are used in other figures of speech. Let’s allow Apple and Orange to boast about themselves.
Apple to Orange: “Many expressions include my name. For example, ‘you are the apple of my eye’ and ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away.’ Favorable impressions about me. What about you?”
Orange to Apple: “Some favorable sayings in reference to me. ‘The squeeze of the day,’ meaning get the most out of the day. ‘As bright as an orange’ means very bright or eye-catching. By the way, ‘orange is the happiest color,’ according to Frank Sinatra. Pretty impressive, if I might say so myself.
Copyright 2026 Frank Clark
Truckers and Sunflowers
What do truckers and sunflowers have in common? They have a cultural connection. Sunflowers are a symbol of the open road. They are often associated with agricultural landscapes and “big trucks” traveling through rural areas. Lastly, sunflowers contribute to truckers’ identity as a group. There seems to be a natural affinity between them.
Did you know that sunflower seeds are among the most popular snacks among truckers? They are easy to carry, contain the vitamins they claim to, and are affordable.
Another thing about sunflower seeds is that they give the driver something to do. Believe it or not, chewing sunflower seeds helps the driver stay focused. Actually, the way a truck driver eats them is essential. Cracking the shell open, usually with his teeth, he removes the kernel and disposes of the shell by spitting it out. This process, while simple, can help the driver stay focused by providing a small, repetitive task to do mindlessly.
You know, there are two kinds of truck hauling: short haul and long haul. Short hauls use smaller trucks and are usually local, with daily pickup and delivery, traveling fewer miles and spending less time on the road. Long-hauls use larger trucks, also known as “18 wheelers,” that travel “over the road,” meaning truckers travel long distances and spend long hours hauling heavy loads of freight.
A trucker’s time on the road can be physically and mentally taxing. Driving an 18-wheeler can indeed be monotonous, often leading to fatigue, reduced focus, and long-lasting boredom. To counter this, a driver may chew on, you guessed it, some sunflower seeds. As mentioned before, sunflower seeds can be easily carried and are an affordable way for a driver to stay focused and less distracted.
What is the real life of a long-haul truck driver? One who particularly likes to chew sunflower seeds and spit them out to keep himself occupied as he travels over the road. Chester finds sunflower seeds a dandy treat because they are tasty and keep his mind occupied. “It’s something to do, and I don’t have to think about it.”
“Yeah, I’m a real-time sunflower, I mean, I enjoy a couple of sunflower seeds as I travel over the road. They are clean, healthy, and crunchy, and I like them salty.” By the way, what is your name? “I’m Sunflower Sadie. It’s my CB handle. It’s how I identify myself with other truckers. When on long hauls, I sing to Jesus. He is always with me wherever I go. By the way, do you know Jesus?” Thank you, Sadie. I will remember you.
Hello, Sir, are you a Sunflower Seed Connoisseur? “I crave them particularly on long hauls across the road. They relieve stress, combat fatigue, and give me the energy to stay focused and alert.”
Hello folks, are you long-haul truckers? “I guess you could say that. We are retired and take turns at the wheel. Since we have been together for a long time, we found long-haul trucking suited to us,” said Jack. Do you enjoy sunflower seeds? “Yes, we do. I like to crack, chew, and spit them out,” said Rosie, and Jack nodded in agreement. How do you identify yourselves with other truckers? “I’m known as Cracker Jack,” and Rosie says, “I’m Crackin’ Rosie.” Appropriate names since you like to crack, chew, and spit.
So, it seems to prove true that truckers do have an affinity for sunflowers. It’s a cultural identity that promotes camaraderie among them. But consuming sunflower seeds is a unique habit for them. Whatever the reason, crack, chew, and spit is a practical habit that helps them to stay focused and safe on the road.
Copyright 2026 Frank Clark
Mind Your Manners
In the South, manners do matter.
Children are told from an early age to be nice to everyone, especially to those who are nice to them. Being nice means being kind, friendly, and respectful towards others.
Mom Jaylene reminds her children to use their manners at the family gathering this afternoon, “Both of you, Mary Ellen and Billy Bob, mind your manners. Gram is hosting the event. It’s a reunion with her brothers and sisters. Many of them will be there. Show them respect and use your manners. They’ll be watching, and it will be a reflection of me. So, please be nice.”
“Mary Ellen, I know it’s hard for you to be polite. Please try not to talk over others in conversation. Allow others to speak as well. Otherwise, it implies that you aren’t listening or that their thoughts are less important.”
“Yes Mom, but it’s hard to talk to Aunt Hilda. I feel like she’s not interested in me. She’ll say ‘bless your heart dear,’ then turns her head and continues her conversation with her sister, Aunt Maggie.” “Yes, she can be rude, but acknowledge her respectfully with a polite nod of your head, then move on to someone else.”
“Billy Bob, use the table manners I taught you: sit up straight in your chair, keep your elbows off the table, place your napkin in your lap, and use the utensils provided while eating.” “Yes Mom, I will do my best.”
“Both of you, use table manners, place your napkins in your laps, and be courteous in passing plates of food to others. Remember to say please and thank you. These are simple tasks, but are important, know that I’ll be watching and will be proud to see you using proper etiquette.” Both reply, ” Yes Mom, we will make you proud.”.
Mary Ellen says, and Billy Bob nods his head in agreement, “I noticed that many of these elder relatives don’t use much etiquette in conversation. All I hear them say ‘Is that right and bless her or bless his heart.'” Billy Bob says, “They seem to talk at each other and not to each other. One sister would say something not nice about another sister and the sister next to her would agree saying bless her heart, but doesn’t seem to mean it.”
Mom responds, “Yes its not nice, not good manners, to say something unkind about another. Better to say nothing at all, if you can’t say anything nice. We can learn from others what not to do. I’ve taught you good manners. Be nice.”
“Mom, I don’t mean to say it, but these relatives are old and seem only interested in each other and their memories of long ago. I don’t understand,” said Billy Bob as he scratched his head.
Mom explains, “For most elderly people, memories are all they’ve got. Many have fond memories of past events with each other and enjoy reminiscing about them. It’s only natural. Even though both of you have memories of recent events you have enjoyed together, you will one day reminisce about them.”
“Well, are you prepped and ready for the family gathering this afternoon?,” said Mom enthusiastically. Mary Ellen and Billy Bob respond, “Yes, we’re ready to get it over with, we mean, we’re ready to have a delightful time at Grams being nice to everyone there.”
Good manners are important across most cultures. In the South, manners are held to the highest importance. It’s a learned social grace. Being nice is to be polite, respectful, and considerate toward others.
Copyright 2025 Frank Clark