My San Francisco kids visited at Xmas. It turned out to be a White one and Rafi, Chandra, and grandson Remy loved walking in the snow. (It doesn’t snow in S. F.) On one of their many excursions, they passed a sign in my neighbour John’s window. Rafi, of course, had to take a photo of it.
John is one of those special, interesting and multi-talented individuals who is interested in everything and everyone. It’s a pleasure and a privilege to know him, but what I like best about John is his kindness to others — including me.
I first saw John acting onstage when I was writing a column covering the arts. Aside from that his photography is so beautiful, if I had any more room on my walls, I’d try to purchase one from him if he’d sell it. What else does he do well? I don’t at all know because the guy never brags. I asked John if he had written the words in the sign below. He said he hadn’t. If you know who did, do let me know.
In case the photo of the sign is difficult for you to read, this is what it says:
B L E S S E D
* A R E T H E *
Weird People
The Poets & Misfits
T H E A R T I S T S
T H E W R I T E R S
& MUSIC MAKERS
The dreamers & the
O U T S I D E R S
For they force us to see
THE WORLD DIFFERENTLY
View from Over the Hill 
Great sign. What it says is absolutely correct.
I agree. I treasure people who are different. I believe YOU fit into that category. All the best.
Not only do they help us to see the world differently, they also make the world a better and more beautiful place, as they are the ones who push boundaries forward in the arts, the sciences, and in society.
Yup indeed! I always loved reading that sign and was so pleased when Rafi took a photo of it and I was able to share it here.
I believe it’s a quote from Jacob Nordby. Here’s another one from him: “Hello,” Life says, “Remember me?
We started out together here
When you were just a bundle
Of innocent amazement.
Remember how you saw the world
With nothing but wonder?
We were such rowdy playmates then.
We painted on the sky with clouds
And made magic out of
Clothespins and peanut butter.
Remember, can you, how I became stained and heavy
With trouble?
Not safe now. Lots of no.
They dressed me in painful clothes
And made you wear them, too.
You don’t recognize me, do you
But I’ve never abandoned you
Or lost my wild, happy desire
To show you
Play with you
Kiss you
Hide and seek down twisty paths
And always discover more.
Want to run away with me again?
Shall we elope without ever leaving
Because that’s possible, you know.
I’ve never been anywhere but here
Waiting for you
To remember.”
― Jacob Nordby
You’re right. You’re right. How wonderful to know that. I always knew YOU were special and, indeed, you are. Thank you so much. I’m thrilled to learn about him.
Aww, I think you are special ❤
Inspiring and encouraging words on that sign…John must be a lovely guy! Thanks to “Back Roads & Other Stories” as well, for sharing the touching poem:)
Always good to hear from you Val: Back Roads is right about the author of the saying I featured in this post. Nice to know, right? My readers are fabulous!!!
Whoever said these words, said them right. Art is a form of expression that provides an escape from reality. The real beauty of this world, is multi faced. It is onto us to discover it’s new dimensions!
Lovely post, Muriel 😀
I certainly agree with you Arnav, it is a wonderful saying. Read the other quote above that ‘Back Roads and Other Stories’ shared in her comment. The most wonderful people read our blogs. All the best.
It’s so lovely!!! Loved the way it said and I do believe the same that all these weirds are truly blessed with something extraordinary that normal human don’t see easily. ♥
I totally agree with you Tamanjeet: And thank you for sharing it with others. YOU are special too. All the best.
Reblogged this on iamtamanjeet and commented:
I loved this post by Muriel!!! Take a read
Hi Muriel. Indeed blessed are the weird people. As I”ve gotten older I see myself more as
a “weird” person, and in a good way. I guess that keeps life interesting.
It sure does keep life interesting Nancy: Stay well and enjoy each day. Cheers, Muriel
Very well said. Those weird people only made this world a comfortable place to live in.
Yes, a more comfortable world and one which is more interesting as well. Thanks for reading. Cheers, Muriel