AN OPEN REPLY TO BOB PIPPIN

[David Sparenberg]

Well good morning Bob. Eva thought you insulted me with your recent comment. I do not feel insulted but will treat your question seriously. Unfortunately, it appears you, like most others, are not such a careful reader, which is a problem that needs some development to counter a culture of distraction and "short attention span." And this is a serious concern. When I write, I am a careful writer/speaker, aware that I am often sending my words out to listeners in a hurry. But please let me go over again what upset you.

In the first instance, I invite everyone I share a free preview of this new book of mine. Secondly I do suggest that if they (you) wish to purchase a copy of the book the price has been set low by me and that for this month there is also a publisher's discount and some terms of free shipping. Most importantly, I am looking to sell copies of this book in order to fund a performance project addressing realities and alternatives to planetary destruction, violence and war. By having "friends" pick up  copies I am propsoing to use the small profits (about $2 per volume) to fund this performance project over the next several years, which would allow me also to offer the performance in poor coumminities and countries where it might not otherwise reach.  Tomorrow, 22 May, is my birthday.  I turn 64 and think that if I can keep my health over the next six years, perhaps I can go about with this very serious "entertainment" I might contribute something motivating to the lives and directions of others. 

Is this a bad thing, a selfish opportunism? I would hope you do not see it as such. That is far from my intention.

Do not know if you are familiar with Jean Houston, the international author, human potential researcher and teacher? Jean has become a fan of my work, especially the poetry, and is offering to help get me and that work out before large audiences. I am honored, humbled and truly grateful for this, but do not wish to be merely "preaching to the choir," as the saying goes, but to reach out into the forgotten places and try to trouch in some good way the lives of those who are struggling there. Not being a rich man, I ask friends to consider joining me in a project to apply my skills, talents, if I may say so, to contribute what I can to move, inspire and awaken others to our shaed endangerment, necessary solidarity and commitment to creative and healing changes--the work of reconnecting, the great work, as it is called, toward a sustaainable civilization, a global green culture of peace and responsibility--a life way of simplicity, freedom, fulfilment and respect.

So you decide Bob: Is it wrong to invite others to have a look, to share, to perhaps pitch in and help make this little something else happen for the possible good it (myself and my work) might contribute?  Please remember--what I send out is only an invitation.  Like any other invitation, one ignores, denies or accepts.