RALPH CISSNE

RALPH CISSNE

Author, Creative Strategist

Moments of Gratitude

Moments of Gratitude

My new book, Prudence in Hollywood, will be released June 1. A collection of fourteen short stories explores the often humor-filled matrix of modern American relationships. Intended for an adult audience, three of the stories are about coming of age, about who we are...
Results: A Beautiful Practice

Results: A Beautiful Practice

“I don’t believe in love,” a man said. I did not comment. There is always more to the story. In my experience, love is the creative force that drives a purposeful and satisfying life. Satisfaction is a low bar, an achievable state where we may manifest whatever we...
The Tower of Inspiration

The Tower of Inspiration

The Tower Theater in Oklahoma City represents a rite of passage. Recently repurposed for music and special events, the balcony retains the original seats. I arrived early for a screening of Francis Ford Coppola’s The Outsiders. Remembrance stuck resonate chords as I...
What I Have Learned About Love

What I Have Learned About Love

I was a lucky one. My parents were not alcoholics or addicted to food porn. They coached me in schoolwork, sports and the larger lessons of life. They taught me that bullies are acting out their frustrations and inadequacies. If you are offended, if someone “hurts...
Eulogy for Louis H. Jullien III

Eulogy for Louis H. Jullien III

My dear friend died of a heart attack on Interstate 40, September 14, 2017. This is the eulogy I delivered at Faithbridge Church in Spring, Texas, October 5. I thought I was Lou’s only friend. That is how he made you feel. We meet in 1974 a few years after he had...