by Ralph Cissne | Jul 10, 2023 | News
On my June 30th birthday I shared a glorious afternoon with my son and granddaughter, exactly as I had envisioned. Late that night I learned Ed Hanson, 88 years young and one of my closest friends, had died after a fall in his home. A sudden and heartbreaking loss,...
by Ralph Cissne | Jun 15, 2021 | News
I posted this parody, referencing Don McLean’s classic song, on Facebook a few weeks ago. The tune and first line were stuck reverberating in my mind until I woke up at 2 a.m. one morning compelled to write the rest. Journalism, like science and stand-up comedy,...
by Ralph Cissne | Jan 22, 2021 | News
For decades I have worked from home, social distancing alone with my thoughts. I write so I am familiar with rejection, disappointment and moments of triumph. During the COVID-19 isolation, our time of great unknowing, it became clear that my days are numbered. So are...
by Ralph Cissne | Nov 11, 2020 | News
Trust your process. Accept responsibility for the brilliant cosmic singularity that you are. Shine on.
by Ralph Cissne | Nov 26, 2019 | News
I stopped to give thanks. The weathered backstop at Monroe Elementary School rose into the bright blue sky. This was my field of dreams where, at age seven, I first played baseball. My father was coach. The memories rushed over me as I recalled his strength, patience...
by Ralph Cissne | May 8, 2019 | News
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...
by Ralph Cissne | Sep 5, 2018 | News
“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...
by Ralph Cissne | Apr 9, 2018 | News
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...
by Ralph Cissne | Mar 5, 2018 | Love Works
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...
by Ralph Cissne | Oct 7, 2017 | Love Works
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...