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David Nelson's avatar

Wow, John/Mr. Wright! I'm sorry for your loss of Cathy. I cannot imagine the blow.

Reading your, I will guess shortened-for-the-purpose, list of accomplishments, I keep asking myself "Why don't I hate this guy yet?" I'm surprised--and over-joyed--that I don't. I've admired you from afar through your comments, but now I'm glad, in the extreme, to learn that you are you, and have been here being you, in America, for as long as you've continued. And I'm enjoying the likelihood that, because of America, there are even more, like you, leading, succeeding, exceeding. What you've got... I hope it's shedding, and infecting future generations. I wish you profound peace of soul, and the gentlest reminder of the way of all souls. Thank you for sharing/baring it.

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Jenna McCarthy's avatar

Nobody gives better comment than David Nelson. 😭🩷

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David Nelson's avatar

There is the one (and of course all the countless others) whom I cannot believe you have not noticed is the centerpiece of today's spotlight. I am not fit to lick the salt from the discarded wrappers of John Wright's Payday candy bars. (BUT, I am moving forward to be someone John and those better commenters can be proud of.)

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John Wright's avatar

😇

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John Wright's avatar

Why don't you hate me yet? C'mon, there is always *something* to hate about everyone if you look hard enough! Seriously, this is an important point: we need to look for the good in others, not their flaws. That right there is a key to a good marriage! Love your partner, don't spend your time finding their flaws (we all have them!). Except Flip Flop Fauci... sorry... I just can't bring myself to find anything positive about that monster.

Jenna encouraged me to write more but I'm quite sure nobody wanted to spend their morning reading a novel!

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David Nelson's avatar

John, there was certainly enough fodder there for a person suffering from envious inclinations to chew on, but "It's the package, John, the totality." that makes followers of otherwise-enviers, which also no doubt explains your success in "schmoozing customers." We don't mind if our heroes can't help swaggering some: "t'aint braggin' if'n it's true" (as I have often quoted an expression I first heard in West Texas).

(I have also previously reminded folks of the Gahan Wilson cartoon featuring an attorney at the U.S. Patent Office standing at the window aiming a long glass tube wrapped with other tubing, and wiring, saying, "Death ray, hell! It's not even slowing them down!!" I have to ask, "Did Gahan Wilson ever drop by Starfire Research?'")

Go along, then, John: make 'em rich, make 'em well, make us proud!

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John Wright's avatar

{laugh} Unfortunately I've never had a visit from Gahan Wilson. Wow, are those cartoons still around?

Those words have been said to me as I've questioned writing a book based on my life. It sounds like bragging to me, but friends have said "It isn't bragging when you've actually lived it".

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David Nelson's avatar

John, every single soul who shuffles off this coil without leaving a "record," and "impression," takes a little something out of me. I've had this impression since high school when a class assignment required visiting a nursing home and "writing the story" of one of the residents. The old woman who agreed to talk to me described her family's experiences during the Great Depression of FDR, and as profound as the impact was on me, more profound was the realization that, I was one of a relative few who were going to know it. Of course, I've forgot the details, the building, where we sat, the story, her face... but I remember ...her and her struggle and her survival. And I love her still...

And now I think of it, it doesn't have to be a book, John. You can "write on other people," as I suppose you know and have indeed done. Socrates comes to mind. And Millard Fillmore. (You should probably write a book however because people are otherwise going to be left wondering, "If he was so smart, why'n't he ever write a book?")

I for one would like to be sure I say, "Thanks, John, for what you've done."

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John Wright's avatar

Some people appear to be content just living. That's cool, good for them.

I love the story of your class assignment! Too much of the wisdom of history is lost because nobody recorded it (or listened). The world is full of viewpoints. We should experience as many as we can, not just the textbooks that are mandatory reading in school.

Too much of our youth is wrapped up in "making money". I'm hoping that my substack articles encourage people to think (and thus improve the world). Once I "retire" then I hope to have time to write a book (or two).

Also, I do consider my photography to be a contribution to the world. I might be a tech nerd but I appreciate art and beauty and it's importance in the world.

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David Nelson's avatar

I suppose "travel" has been recommended, by such folks as Mark Twain, for the same purpose of experiencing other points of view.

And, benighted as I am, I of course completely missed that "photograpsh are writing," as are substacks. In fact in a real way, social media are the new, democratized, interactive, 'books.' It looks like I'm mostly going to be leaving blocks of wood.

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SteveO's avatar

Man of Mystery. I envy the life you lead. I am happy with being boring and retired. But I have often dreamed of being a free spirit. But my fear of instability keeps me grounded. I have all that I need, not want. But you are living a curious life that sounds so interesting. Keep on being free and explosive.

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John Wright's avatar

Very understandable! Humans value security (and comfort) very highly! A few of us jump off the cliff of adventure and scream all the way down. I hope it doesn't hurt too much when I hit bottom (again).

Enjoy your retirement Steve! A boring life can be a wonderful life!

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Heather B's avatar

Wow, John! I've admired your comments for some time now, but had no idea of the breadth of your accomplishments! What a fun read!

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John Wright's avatar

😇 Hi Heather! I love how Jenna brings so many of us together to feel like "old friends". Your memes are fantastic! I've loved them for a long time now! Oh, I finally shot some photos of a model in one of your t-shirts. {grin}

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Heather B's avatar

Thank you so much! I would love to see that photo. Did you know you can upload photos in the chat function here on SS? I'll send you a request there. Yes Jenna's subscribers feel like extended family.

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Jenna McCarthy's avatar

😭💕🫠

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John Wright's avatar

Oh that's right! We can share photos in chat. I'll pop over to chat, that must be you there now!

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Juju's avatar

Where’s “chat”? I’m confused.

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John Wright's avatar

Ah, one of the flaws of Substack. The user interface isn't always easy to use. On a browser, chat is the little "dialog bubble" at the top right of the screen in between the search and notifications buttons.

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Juju's avatar

Thank you. I have many other newsletters in that chat area. Is the one you speak of for Jenna’s Side? How do I find it?

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Roberta Stack's avatar

Truly a remarkable man! And leading a full life is an understatement. I too, am content with my simple retired life, and I always enjoy learning about all of Jenna's colorful subscribers. These Spotlights are a delight, often opening my world to people I would otherwise never experience.

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Jenna McCarthy's avatar

Seriously, as a mom I have a million proud moments, but nothing tugs at my heart more than watching my girls champion and support one another. And that is EXACTLY how I feel reading these spotlight comments... I'm legitimately verklempt. ;)

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John Wright's avatar

Oops... Jenna, I forgot to mention studying 22 foreign languages (that's what you get when you date women from various cultures!) (but only a half dozen languages seriously). Now ver klempt? Huh? "very clamped"? I'm not familiar with that term / phrase.

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St. Alia the Knife's avatar

I believe it is Yiddish for "overcome with emotion". At least, that was the context in which it was used by Mike Meyers on SNL's Coffee Talk with Linda Richman. 🤣🤣

Mrs. "the Knife"

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John Wright's avatar

Roberta, I must agree, I really enjoy "meeting" Jenna's other subscribers! There are a lot of wonderful people here!

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Roger's avatar

John, your resilience and tenacity are the underpinnings of your continuing success. I've met many people who flamed out after meeting adversity because their inner voice gave up on them. You inspire others, not to be you, but to be their best self, no matter the circumstances. Thank you for sharing your story.

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John Wright's avatar

Thanks. Reading Michael Easter's book "The Comfort Crisis" would be good for everyone! Most of us need a bit of a nudge to get out of our comfort zone!

"Hello Mr. Adversity, so good to see you again. We seem to have become well acquainted." (almost seems like a daily conversation around here)

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Anthony S Burkett's avatar

John, I love your style, brother!... The Tango, in my estimation, is perhaps the most well-defined illustration of style that I am aware of.... and I admire your accomplishments... Well done, Sir! Kudos and Golf Claps!

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John Wright's avatar

Thank you! {grin} Yes, Tango is a lot of fun (also I really enjoy the Waltz!). If you are bored, look up the music videos that I've danced in (although in those I'm not the feature just part of the entertainment). Heck you can even see me dancing as a background actor in one scene in Forbidden Power.

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Anthony S Burkett's avatar

I will look up those music videos, John ... But I must admit that for the most part, I wasn't looking at you...(BIG grin)... I was watching your dance partner, Kristina... I've always appreciated the Tango for its intricacy and its refined delicacy... but even more so because it spotlights the elegance of the woman.... FAR more than any other style of dance that I am aware of... The Tango is ALL about the woman!~

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John Wright's avatar

A lovely dance partner is essential! 😇

To save you some frustration, here are some of the links (YouTube sometimes takes them down so no guarantees):

Winter Showcase 2011 - Merry Christmas 007:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eI-kVe2XcUg

Summer Showcase 2012 - Custom Waltz dedicated to the memory of my wife Cathy:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YI33QwajsgM

Bad September - Aschenlied

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Po0hNq7brGY

Chris Rupp - First Dance

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjEmabIqAbE

Others I only have on DVD (not online).

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Anthony S Burkett's avatar

Thank you!!!

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Anthony S Burkett's avatar

Was that a Walther PPK? NICE!!! :)

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John Wright's avatar

Yes, Walther created an excellent design for a "carry" weapon. The Second Amendment was created for a reason!

I'll toss in one comment here about "gun control". While I oppose "gun control", I do very, very strongly advocate (gun) education and training! These are not toys! (although the one I used for dance performances is a replica and not my carry PPK)

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Anthony S Burkett's avatar

I LOVE the PPK! As well as the Polish Randon and the Bersa Thunder... both built on the original Walther design... such a shame that those beautiful "blow-backs" don't come in 9x19... :)

YES, Weapons education and training is not only a MUST... It's an absolute imperative!!!

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John Wright's avatar

It's a tool. Tools must be used wisely in trained and skilled hands.

I'm not a "gun guy". I looked up the Bersa Thunder and it does indeed look like a PPK. Bersa is low cost, I don't know how their quality compares. I spent $1,000 having my PPK "tuned" so it operates flawlessly. Gun malfunctions are not something you want to have in a crisis!

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Anthony S Burkett's avatar

You should check out the Polish Randon...if you can find one... It's a Polish-manufactured handgun (go figure) that the Russians designed around their standard submachinegun round, the 9x18... it has a little bit more Umph than the .380 (9x17)... It's equally well made... and highly sought after.

We could have a long conversation about handguns if you like... off-line... but for now... Back to the Tango! Argentine Style!!!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0ufIlbrpBI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3vsiiRK5GU

And My Favorite... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tir5_m6E4lc&list=RDtir5_m6E4lc&start_radio=1 ... (the older gentleman is me............................ I wish! 🤣🤣🤣~)

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Anthony S Burkett's avatar

Just so you know... There's a reason the Bursa Thunder looks like a PPK... when WWII was coming to an end, and Nazi Germany was crumbling... a great number of the former Nazis (both official and civilian) fled to Argentina... the home of Bursa... the Bursa is a weapon designed on the PPK, and tooled by the original makers of the Walther... despite it's relative lower price compared to a PPK... the Bursa Thunder is a very well made handgun... very reliable and... as all blow-backs are... very accurate.

Yes, Indeed! I wholeheartedly agree, and I meant to comment previously on the "tool" aspect... All weapons are tools, and just like hammers, screwdrivers, and saws... they are made for a specific purpose in mind... that purpose is to destroy and/or kill... whether it be an aluminium can or pop bottle or paper target... or anything else... Firearms are NOT toys!

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Cfahrnbauer's avatar

I wish the world were full of these kind of people. Wow!! 🤩

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John Wright's avatar

Oh I doubt it... too many of us might drive you crazy. 😇

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Anomalous Anonymous's avatar

Ballroom dancing kicks a**!

Right up there with Wing Chun kung fu.

You certainly do have some awesome and interesting subscribers Miss Jenna. A reflection of the author I posit.

Thanks for sharing! 🙏💖

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John Wright's avatar

Jenna truly does rock! I think she attracts some absolutely awesome people!

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Jenna McCarthy's avatar

Just call me a human Covid shot (magnetic)! 😉

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John Wright's avatar

🤣🤣 Magnetic yes, toxic or deadly... hopefully not! Although you did inspire me to share some of this drivel, now I'm waiting for the haters to come out of the woodwork and shoot me in the backside!

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Anomalous Anonymous's avatar

I thoroughly concur on both counts! I have in the past told her that very thing.

Rock on Miss Jenna, rock on…..

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Jenna McCarthy's avatar

🥰

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Bridget's avatar

This was quite the thing to read! It qlmost sounds like the essay you'd write in high school when a teacher said, imagine if you could do EVERYTHING you want in life, and a little you don't, just make it very interesting and then write an essay from your point of view later in life. This is amazing!

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Jenna McCarthy's avatar

👏👏👏

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John Wright's avatar

Uh... can I have a few more lifetimes? I've got so many things I want to do! Never enough time for all of them! That's probably a good thing or I might drown my subscribers with more articles than they have time to read!

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Karen Bandy's avatar

Don’t worry, subscribers to substack are already drowning in things to read. What’s a few more? 😉

Substack should be renamed ‘whole nuther world (out there)’.

Or ‘political awakening, a lesson in critical thinking’. It has been for me.

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John Wright's avatar

Karen, yes indeed, this is a whole world here on Substack!

Along with "critical thinking" we also need to exercise "considering other viewpoints" even if we disagree with them!

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KatWarrior's avatar

Renaissance Man! Bravo, John! I absolutely loved hearing a few bits and pieces of your glorious journey. I am sad that your beloved Cathy is no longer here to enjoy the adventure with you.

Curiosity is the key and apparently it is forever embedded in your being!

Learning, thinking, learning more, thinking more, etc., etc.

I don't believe we have one purpose in our lives. I believe our path is strife with twists and turns where we live and adjust, adapt or die.

I know this because I, too, have learned, acquired, and adapted. I have no idea which chapter I am entering as there are too many to count at this point.

Thank you for sharing your fascinating adventure thus far. You have inspired me to keep on keeping on! Bless you, John.

I look forward to paying more attention to your comments!

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John Wright's avatar

Kat! So good to "see" you again. Forget chapters, keep moving to the next book! Yes, dang it sure is easy to lose count!

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Candace Lynn Talmadge's avatar

You sound like a John Milton man. "But what more oft, in nations grown corrupt and by their vices brought to servitude, than to love bondage more than liberty. Bondage with ease than strenuous liberty." (Samson Agonistes) My condolences on the death of your wife. I share a similar loss.

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Jenna McCarthy's avatar

Big hugs to you, Candace. 💕

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John Wright's avatar

Great quote Candace! That applies to our world so well, the struggle with corruption appears to be timeless and endless. It baffles me how anyone can enjoy slavery!

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Sandra Knauf's avatar

I'll chime in with another "Wow"! I loved reading about the life of this supporter. What a fascinating mix of vulnerability, honesty, daring, and accomplishment! What a beautiful human. Thanks, John, for supporting Jenna, and thanks, Jenna, for making all this possible.

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Jenna McCarthy's avatar

What a lovely thing to say! 🩷 Not gonna lie, I was just patting myself on the back for coming up with the idea. People are so fascinating and we might never even know it! 🤣🤣🤣

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John Wright's avatar

I'll echo Sandra, this was a truly brilliant idea Jenna. It has been so wonderful to read the other people you've featured. This is real community building! Something that is very, very important to our world!

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Sandra Knauf's avatar

You should be patting yourself on the back! It's a brilliant idea that's creating genuine community.

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Jenna McCarthy's avatar

🥰

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Richard schoenenberger's avatar

I am in awe and feeling so inadequate…

I’ve only lived one life. Pleased to meet you John Wright.

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Jenna McCarthy's avatar

Don't sell yourself short, Richard! Some of us are multi-taskers and some are specialists. The world needs both. :)

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John Wright's avatar

Hopefully you've had a wonderful life.

My fourteen years with Cathy as a husband and father was moderately uneventful and the best part of my life! I'd gladly go back to that! It was a wonderful break from the chaos of before and after.

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Richard schoenenberger's avatar

Thank you for your kind reply John. I have had a great life, married to my one and only sweetheart for 58 years .

Looking forward to many more enjoying grandchildren.

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John Wright's avatar

Awesome Richard! I'm envious! 58 wonderful years with a great partner is terrific. That sounds like a delightful life!

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Victoria Bell's avatar

Wow, John Wright, you rock! It's good to be able to put a face and soul behind the often-read comments. I can't say I've accomplished nearly so much, but, and I say this with pride, I've dressed MYSELF every morning of my adult life (grin).

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John Wright's avatar

Thank you Victoria. Self responsibility is important! It's sad to see our nation drifting away from that and expecting the government to babysit us.

"Accomplishing [nearly] so much" might be a way of saying that the decades have flown by! I'm not "young and foolish" anymore, now I'm "mature and foolish"!

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Teresa Parmenter's avatar

A most interesting man. Thank you for sharing!

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KC & the Sunshine's avatar

Intriguing!

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