RALPH CISSNE

RALPH CISSNE

Author, Creative Strategist

Eulogy for Ed Hanson

Eulogy for Ed Hanson

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,...
Thanksgiving for Mother as Mentor

Thanksgiving for Mother as Mentor

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...
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...
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...