“…… still wounded, living, feeling with a woe unutterable, still grieving with a grief intolerable, still thirsting with a thirst unquenchable – where are we to seek? For the wild tempest breaks above us, the wild fury beats about us, the wild hunger feeds upon us – and we are houseless, doorless, unassuaged, and driven on forever; and our brains are mad, our hearts are wild and wordless, and we cannot speak.”
“Silence receive us, and the field of peace, hush of the measureless land,.…..replenish us, restore us, and unite us with your vast images of quietness and joy……come swiftly now; engulf us, silence, in your great-starred secrecy; speak to our hearts of stillness, for we have, save this, no speech.”
-Thomas Wolfe, “The Four Lost Men”
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THIS WEEKEND I WILL POST MY FIRST BLOG. IRA
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NOTE: You can post your comments on the link on this page only.
POSTNOTE: ANYONE IS WELCOME TO COMMENT.
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Great Job! Seeing as the subtitle is “this time i will write it” I will be checking frequently and expecting to see many updated chapters in the future.
excellent start!
love you:)
Comment by Janice — April 6, 2007 @ 2:21 pm
Ira, man, you’ve really done it – great job! As a reader of any great manuscript, I have been drawn in, moved along on a journey not my own, but one which I have been privileged (cursed?) to have observed at it’s fateful finale…maybe not a finale, but at least it’s ‘shock and awe’ stage. Irawagler.com will be in the bookmark bar of every web browser I have. God Bless, my friend.
Comment by Patrick — April 6, 2007 @ 3:10 pm
Compliments on the website. Well written for such sad events. I will be back often, as this is too much to digest in one sitting.
Comment by Reuben Wagler — April 6, 2007 @ 4:58 pm
Ira, The man with the heart hung on the washline on a cold morning with the temperature just below freezing. Yes, the jeans will dry, but slowly, and will be stiff when brought in to thaw by the waves radiating from the old wood stove, the faint odor of lantern fuel lingers there, there in the mind like the mists of the Mississippi, on a September morning. Yet there is calmness brought on by the steady harmony of the old grandfather clocks ticking, ticking as the sound echos off the hardwood floor as the sun settles on another day. Another day , another chapter, and we empathize, together, old friends, and brothers even, we.
Comment by John Yutzy — April 6, 2007 @ 7:39 pm
It’s great to see you alive and kicking. I had a great longing many times to hear my friend’s voice again and my heart has been blessed and encouraged to read your writings. Ira, you have a small fan club just north of Rte. 23, praying and cheering you on as you continue on life’s journey. I have heard your voice as I have read. God Bless !!!
Comment by Steve aka. (Bear) — April 6, 2007 @ 8:57 pm
WELL SAID, MY HUSBAND. WELL SAID. KEEP WRITING. SO PROUD OF YOU FOR WRITING.
Comment by ELLEN — April 7, 2007 @ 2:01 am
good to hear you voice again, like Rueben said I well need to return to digest more. Keep Writing!
Comment by rachel — April 7, 2007 @ 11:48 am
I smiled and I cried……but I felt. Anne
Comment by Anne — April 7, 2007 @ 1:18 pm
Wow- very well done!Our hearts and prayers are with you.We love you!
Comment by Phil&Dorinda — April 7, 2007 @ 10:57 pm
Kudos on your website and your writings! Honest, heartfelt and moving. Congratulations on taking this step!
Comment by Wilma — April 9, 2007 @ 9:35 am
I’m glad you are writing. I too have an unquenchable rage. I too have been betrayed by the man I trusted and by E.
Comment by frieda — April 9, 2007 @ 3:28 pm
Just a clarification on “Wilma”… is not Wilma Wagler
Comment by ella — April 9, 2007 @ 4:53 pm
Time has a strange way of revealing ultimate truth. Me thinks that this one may require a lifetime. Some of it will be and has been bitterly painful for many. But for those who pursue and embrace it, ultimate truth will finally bring joy and bliss if pursued to its bitter end.
Well done Ira, I am glad you are writing!
R.
Comment by Reuben — April 9, 2007 @ 5:39 pm
You did it again..very well written! You ARE truly already an author and a talented one at that! Love you and am proud of you for stating your feeling so well! Dorothy
Comment by Dorothy — April 9, 2007 @ 9:12 pm
Honestly, Ella, is that all you could think of to write?
Comment by Ellen — April 10, 2007 @ 2:43 am
Thats right Ella…
Comment by J.... (later known as Jack, or Reuben; editor) — April 10, 2007 @ 12:55 pm
I think we should not miss the opportunity and need to pray for those involved, especially for those unrepentant. Souls are at stake, besides the fundamental, God-ordained marriages and other relationships. Relationships in the church are no less important, and the spiriutual effects are real, to which I can personally attest. “Ask not for whom the bell tolls….” (Thankfully, physical death that John Donne spoke of is not yet involved in this situation, which gives us reason to hope, and no reason to write anyone off.)
Likewise, “tell it not in Gath, declare it not in Ashkelon!,” lest the enemies of God rejoice, but do, DO, make it known in the courts of heaven, not for vengeance, but restoration and healing. God will chatise as only a loving, personal Father knows how. We must pray for free agents to wake up and escape the snare of the devil (see 2 Timothy), as our prayers are another means for the Spirit to work. Repentance is a requirement for salvation, sin-excusing theologies notwithstanding, and those who would “chance it” and not fear are the very ones in danger; this goes for all of us. Tragedy is possible for the very reason that our choices are our own.
Believers in Christ, now is not the time to spectate, speculate, and whisper down the alley (and not even to philosophize and make a post like I am doing), but it is a clear and necessary time to PRAY.
For those who find this too trite and spiritual, I pity you.
Ira, you are a great writer. I stand with you shoulder to shoulder, as I have quietly even before this exceedingly difficult time.
Comment by Pat Henry — April 10, 2007 @ 3:11 pm
Yes, indeed, well written. You have been dealt a harsh and bitter hand. As you said, I can not know the place you are in, so I won’t attempt to say anything. Hey cousins, how about a better showing here on the comment board?
Comment by mervin — April 10, 2007 @ 4:55 pm
Pat Henry, (whoever you are), I couldn’t agree with you more! You hit the nail on the head. God bless you for your comment!
Comment by Phil&Dorinda — April 10, 2007 @ 5:03 pm
to clarify on comment #16 above, it’s not mine. If I have any thoughts to add to this page, I can promise you this. I’m not afraid to sign my name.
to Ira, website is still fabulous. will be back soon:)
Comment by janice — April 10, 2007 @ 8:56 pm
This is becoming quite addictive…Thanks uncle for the stimulating, shall we say, entertainment!
Dorothy
Comment by Dorothy — April 10, 2007 @ 9:07 pm
Superfood testimony! What a wonderfull invention! (See Links page on this site.) After being on Superfood for approx. 30 days, my wife has announced she feels more like a morning person. Less grouchy, more energy, getting up much earlier. She also got her sister started on it, also has an aunt that has been on Superfood for 15 yrs. (I also take Superfood daily) Advice to Phil Graber; get off your Walmart vitamins and take Superfood immediately. You will become a much better golfer!
Comment by John Wagler — April 10, 2007 @ 9:42 pm
Aside from the horrific tragedy of your “nightmare” (it IS a war out there–for the souls of people–guilty and innocent!!) your website cracks me up–glad that you still (amazingly) have a sense of humor AND GOD! We’d love to sample some of your grilling–hey, I’d even bring carrot cake and some name brand ice cream! Whenever you do “return”, we will still be here with open arms–no we don’t understand, but we feel your pain, it was like a rock to my heart, must be a boulder in yours. Rosie.
Comment by Rosie — April 11, 2007 @ 7:49 am
And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free…..and you will be free indeed.
Love this site…..some of this has become kind of bizarre, but I can’t stay away….kind of like when you pass by an auto accident on the highway, and crane your neck to assess the carnage….except in this case, I know the occupants of the vehicle, and care about them…so my curiosity at the wreckage is tempered by the pain I feel as I empathize with them over their misfortune….
Ira, you’re a much better writer than I am, and I’m sure you would find a much more elegant way of tying your thoughts together than my little…whatever you call them…..
As far as SUPERFOOD goes…amen to the props that have been given. Ira said he would give me a container to get started with, if I commit to taking it for a month. I love this stuff! It almost gives me a little ‘buzz’ when I take it. My appetite is not as big as it was, and I’ve cut back on my coffee consumption, because this stuff gives me a lot of energy. I would recommend it to any and all. My 2 yr. old son begs for some when he sees me drinking mine, and I happily let him sample it, of course.
Comment by Patrick — April 11, 2007 @ 10:59 am
Kudos to SUPERFOOD etc. Hang in there Ira, you obviously have a large and loyal fan base including me.
Comment by Nate Wagler — April 11, 2007 @ 3:33 pm
Don’t know what to say, uncle, but hang in there. You have a small but devoted fan base in Minnesota.
Comment by jason yutzy — April 11, 2007 @ 5:26 pm
John w. What’s this superfood,does it have a site? How’s it for giving more energy? I’m getting ready [tomorrow morning] to dive into something called ‘All Day Energy Greens’ All natural,etc.etc…..Daughter Roberta convinced me to try it.One scoop mixed with juice supposedly equals 5 servings of high energy greens.maybe I’LL work past 4 tomorrow if this thing works.At this age any things worth a shot.ha.
Comment by Jesse from s.c. — April 11, 2007 @ 9:13 pm
Has anyone had the chance to read the essay section?? must comment…my personal favorites would be “at dusk in winter” and the “retreat”. A very vivid picture is painted in both essays. Good reading I say!
on a different note I will add this. anything that you mix into your drink and has “super” or “green” in the title is usually not a pleasant experiance for the taste buds. so good luck uncle Jesse:)
Comment by janice — April 11, 2007 @ 11:23 pm
This I gotta see,Pat cutting back on coffee.Ira,your writings are good.Thanks for the job referrals.Love,thoughts and prayers,Elam
Comment by Elam S Lantz — April 12, 2007 @ 7:46 am
Whew, janice,you’re right,it did taste awful,but Roberta assures me it’s good for me.I figured if i was in it long term [at least 2 days] I needed to announce it to the world,at least the narrow waglerworld,ahead of time ,to keep motivated… Well,we are planning to load the Hyundia mini van [A gussied up Kia] shortly,head to pa. for a wedding on sat.It’s mid 70’s here today nice and sunny.We plan to stay at Steve’s mt. house. Sure hope it’s nice up there.Had a great time at the fl. wedding trip [A great wedding is one that lasts less than an hr.] Though the motel rates about ate us up.Here we go .bye.
Comment by super green uncle jess — April 12, 2007 @ 8:32 am
Good Heavens Ira — I was silent too long, I didn’t call or harass you to write, because I knew you were working hard at your marriage. ….The failure of a relationship for whatever reason cuts deep and leaves something more than scars. Scars might indicate that the gnawing nagging feeling of unquiet can go away. It is sad that your connection to the place that you came from is so battered. Those of us who have completely walked off the map of our childhood sometimes walk alone, neither part of the culture that bred us nor a part of the culture we operate in. Anyone who knows my stories knows that I have no Faith in the Christian-in-quotes way of doing things it leaves nothing but pain and is at best disingenuous. Be St. Francis kiss the leper.
Comment by Glo — April 12, 2007 @ 10:04 am
To everyone who was freaking out, as I was, at the site “hits” counter, a new one has been installed. This one should go up a bit more slowly, at least I hope so. If not, I’ll have to make some changes. The new counter was started at 286, so don’t freak out again. My webmaster calculates that the current counter shows close to the accurate number of “unique” hits, whatever that means.
Comment by Ira Wagler — April 12, 2007 @ 6:43 pm
Hey its good to see so many good people taking Super food 🙂 Ira introduced it to me several months ago, and I’ve been taking it every day since. Of course i haven’t taken any vitamins for years, so anything would probably have been good for me.
On a side note, any correspondence from me will include my last name.
Comment by Reuben Wagler — April 12, 2007 @ 7:07 pm
I totaly disagree with comment by Glo. The Christian way is the only way that does not leave pain.Jesus said:Ye must be born again. If you are truley born again your joy will be full.Iets pray for each other.
comment by a friend DLY
Comment by David L yutzy — April 12, 2007 @ 7:28 pm
Ira,
It hurts me to hear of the things that happened and just wanted to let you know that I will Pray for you. And for Ellen too. Our lives are not our own but Gods alone and in that end it only matters if we have lived for him. So live for our Lord and Savior and never ever stop believing in him . God Bless you Richly and Keep you in his loving care.
Comment by Alma Hershberger — April 12, 2007 @ 8:20 pm
DLY – The last time I checked scripture said “by His stripes we are healed” – not our own bloody mess. It is a Christian- in – quotes thing to turn to a “how saved are you contest” — so if we are “truly born again” we will never deal with the reality of living in a fallen world? Please consider the genesis of this forum…
Comment by Glo — April 13, 2007 @ 6:40 am
When you set out on your journey to Ithaca,
pray that the road is long,
full of adventure, full of knowledge.
The Lestrygonians and the Cyclops,
the angry Poseidon — do not fear them:
You will never find such as these on your path,
if your thoughts remain lofty, if a fine
emotion touches your spirit and your body.
The Lestrygonians and the Cyclops,
the fierce Poseidon you will never encounter,
if you do not carry them within your soul,
if your soul does not set them up before you.
Pray that the road is long.
That the summer mornings are many, when,
with such pleasure, with such joy
you will enter ports seen for the first time;
stop at Phoenician markets,
and purchase fine merchandise,
mother-of-pearl and coral, amber and ebony,
and sensual perfumes of all kinds,
as many sensual perfumes as you can;
visit many Egyptian cities,
to learn and learn from scholars.
Always keep Ithaca in your mind.
To arrive there is your ultimate goal.
But do not hurry the voyage at all.
It is better to let it last for many years;
and to anchor at the island when you are old,
rich with all you have gained on the way,
not expecting that Ithaca will offer you riches.
Ithaca has given you the beautiful voyage.
Without her you would have never set out on the road.
She has nothing more to give you.
And if you find her poor, Ithaca has not deceived you.
Wise as you have become, with so much experience,
you must already have understood what Ithacas mean.
Constantine P. Cavafy (1911)
Ira,
“Ithaca” sprung to mind as I read your words. As I have found comfort and inspiration in it, so may you and others. A life’s journey, a certain leg of that jourrney, are they not really the same? Just longer or shorter- from whichever perspective you choose.
Pain subsides. Questions will or will not have answers. Events will or will not be resolved. You will once again emerge to the fullness of life’s many ambiguities, joys, pains, loves, warmth, chill and feelings. We will wait patiently (well, most of the time) as the process unfolds, offering such support as you may request. My friend, you are in our prayers.
Thorne & Margaret
Comment by thorne — April 13, 2007 @ 11:54 am
well now, first i did not read your nightmare, i dont feel i would need to, but even just hearing your name brings me pain, since you tried to make me feel as if i am so awful in the treatmant of my beloved brother, anyways i do try harder sometimes to communicate with him but mostly we just exist with little talk, so pain is real and when we cannot make it go away we just deal the best we can and ask God for lots and lots of mercy–by the way i usually have lots of leftovers–saw you at the mall the other week,you look preoccupied- life is short , life is hard——-
Comment by Judy B. — April 15, 2007 @ 3:53 pm
The eaves dropper,
I’m impressed with your writing and amazed on how well you’re handling this problem. Well done. Who am I? I’m sure you’ll probably wonder – I’m no one, just an outsider. I came across your website while searching for something else and I couldn’t help but read. I have nothing to do with your family and will probably never meet you so I will take it upon myself to give you my comments….I might not be as educated as you are and wasn’t brought up in a golden carriage but my mother showed us how to find the biggest treasure of all. GOD. I have peace in my heart that no one else was able to provide…He will comfort you while others can’t, He will listen while others speak, He will forgive while others judge, He will cry in your pain while others laugh. He will carry you while others step on you; He is there for you while others aren’t. He is the almighty powerful GOD the Prince of Peace…Seek Him and you shall find Him.
To Ira: Stay strong and move on, don’t look back…. this lady is not worth your pain. God has provided since Adam and Eve, He will provide for you as well. A real Lady will not put herself in a position like this (especially between best friends) She has no morals and principles. Thank God you found out sooner then later. You are young and have a lot to look forward to. Don’t let any one tell you otherwise.
To Ellen: Shame on you, how dare you…..but your time will come. Money isn’t everything, it seems to me that’s all you’re after –WHY if you don’t love him WHY move in with his niece??? Is it because your family can’t afford your high maintenance needs? With all due respect – grow up and worry about better things. Learn what you haven’t learned, respect like you’ve been respected, practice principals you’ve never practiced, find the dignity you haven’t found, give trust that was once given to you.
To R: You should know better, if she isn’t good enough for your best friend what makes you think she’s good enough for you? Is that how low you think of yourself? What makes you think you will change her? Trust me, Find your friend and apologize, he is probably the only true friend you’ll ever have. DON”T look for her, you will bring nothing but bad luck to your life and I mean BAD LUCK.
Comment by eaves dropper — April 17, 2007 @ 10:28 pm
Oh that all men could have such “BAD LUCK”
Comment by Jack (later known as Reuben) — April 18, 2007 @ 7:33 pm
Ira- I am almost speechless. For you to leave another attorney and friend close to speechlessness is quite a feather in your cap! Ira and the Special Ks need to meet even for a short while. Closure in one sense but expansion as well –just a thought.
Comment by Kelly — April 19, 2007 @ 10:11 am
Ira, good writes, not interested in your truck, have one ’06 chevy crew 1500 gas guzzler. Still in the military (AirForce), 20 yrs in June. Married, for the 2nd time & last, found a mini-mom (Margaret) her name is Sherri. Have 4 kids, Lacey (college), Kyle (graduating, then AirForce), Meagan (17) Christian (6) and a crazy airedale terrier (1 yr). Live in Des Moines, work at the AirGuard Base by the airport. Email me and we can recount the past of life in West Grove…..
Comment by Charlie Leonard Jr — May 10, 2007 @ 11:00 pm