"Most people never run far enough on their first wind to find out they've got a second. Give your dreams all you've got and you'll be amazed at the energy that comes out of you."
William James
1842-1910, Psychologist, Professor and Author
New World Greetings:Inspirational Poetry and Musings for a New World
"I experienced paralytic polio at the age of 5. I had a vision of a 'being' in a long flowing white beard inviting me to step into a well bucket. I was reeled up to meet this being. No matter where I looked, I saw this being - in my storybook, on the ceiling. I saw the being whether my eyes were open or closed.
This being - God, Creator, Divine Mind - has always been with me. From inside my safe cocoon I heard the Voice; at times I even listened to the Voice, but never as clearly as I did in January 2007. Many events converged in my life and my soul opened wide to give voice to God's voice through poetry....
My hope as you read these words is that I can ignite a spark in your soul or fan the flames of life already burning in your heart and soul. May you find inspiration, peace, joy, love, laughter, confusion, tears, reminiscences, reflection...and experience your own uniqueness as you take a journey to a New World."
From the Introduction to "New World Greetings:Inspirational Poetry and Musings for a New World" by Mary McManus (Publish America, November, 2007)
Mary generously donates 20% of the proceeds of the sale of her book of inspirational poetry to Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital's International Rehab Center for Polio. Available by clicking on 'order now' or wherever books are sold.
Darien Marshall of Darimar Entertainment, www.darimarentertainment.com has chosen selections from "New World Greetings:Inspirational Poetry and Musings for a New World" to be read during the meditation segment of their Blog Talk Radio Show, 'It's All About You'. Give a listen at www.blogtalkradio/itsallaboutyou on Mondays from 3-4 pm EST.
"Your words have a way at cutting through to the very essence of the thought. They hold a punch -- a gentle wake-up punch. Your experience with polio and how you have used it brings much wisdom to your words." - Michelle Epiphany Prosser, author of Excuse Me, Your God is Waiting and founder and president of Energy Focus http://www.energyfocuscoaching.com/default.htm
"As I listened to you reading your poetry, I could really visualize the dove and I felt such peace! I have this problem with racing thoughts but when I focus on your poetry, they stop!" - Vietnam Veteran, West Haven VAMC, Conn.
"Although never formally trained in poetry, McManus' work is not the
sophisticated poetry of journals. It is unashamedly sentimental and
sincere with simple rhyme schemes reflecting early indoctrination in
Dr. Seuss - he was the childhood favorite she would read prior to
painful polio treatments. But the directness of McManus' poetry,
anchored in spiritual faith and positive energy, has brought her
enthusiastic fans around the world." - Karen Campbell, freelance writer
"Thank you so much for sending a copy of your anthology. I've been able to read some of it and I must say it is truly amazing, spiritual and inspirational. I wish you many blessings and hope to see more of your writing in the future." Josh Golder - Dream Realization Media, Boston, MA
"Thank you for the poems - I got the book today! Oh Mary, you really are a ray of sunshine - your love and positivity really shine through in these poems. I've been feeling down lately because of the physical pain Im in - I wake in the morning grumpy until my pain killers work! How did you cope with your pain? You are such an inspiration. I particularly like Gently Rise, it reminds me to smile when I wake in the morning and feel grateful. I've copied it out and placed it on my bedside table!" Tasha - United Kingdom
"I am reading your book and savoring each of the pieces, reading just one at a time. Your writing is truly an inspiration for me." - Joan, Pennsylvania
"Your poems are very inspirational for me. You are very talented. Move over, Longfellow." - Bill, Connecticut
"La Verne and I are inspired by your poetry and have your book, on our
bed stand for constant reading. The book is truly a reflection of your
good nature, faith, and Beauty." - Ivan, Bermuda
WOW.....A MUST BUY!
"I am a victim and survivor of cancer. I recommend this book to anyone who
is going through a difficult time in their life, or just need words of
inspiration. The most powerful poetry I have ever read! Her words truly
give you strength and peace, and definitely build up your faith! With
the powerful and touching story of her life, you realize anything is
possible in the eyes of God! Thank You Mary for your Words! You are
truly my inspiration!" Anthony Espina, Florida
"I have enjoyed reading you poetry and I am inspired by your
strength, vision and heart. ... I am touched by how utterly you have
given yourself over to that power." - Bryce, Austin, TX
"Thank you so much for your inspirational book. I'm really enjoying it." - Judy, Brookline, MA
"What a magical book! Thank you so much for this gift. It was very
inspirational. I sat down and read the entire collection. I loved your
'Driving Without Glasses' Also, 'The Easter Lily'. I can't wait to
re-read it. Each poem was a bit of your heart - beautiful!' - Diane - Atlanta,GA
"I read your book from cover to cover, enjoyed every poem and loved
the message each poem brought forth. You are very talented. Thank you
for including me with your first edition." - Marie - Connecticut
"I just received the book and brought it to John to read to him in the nursing
home. I have to get a copy for my daughter in law who is a polio
survivor. Thank you!" - Julia - Natick, MA
"I got the book! So wonderful---I am half-way through it, and it is really beautiful work." - Allison, ME
"The book is fantastic but I was deeply touched by 'The Gift of Polio' -- so
many people would have been complaining and asking, why me? - instead
Mary turned it into this positive experience. It's so refreshing to
read such a positive book in today's world." - Jhafar - Boston, MA
"You're talented! I believe you could give your book to a person
seriously ill, and they would stand a good chance of getting well.
Honestly. I have read much poetry," but I never recall such spiritual
force and positive energy joined so well as it comes out of your book.
I am sure your work will do well as it is very timely also. Glad you
are working on your next book. You are a Healer!"- Bill Lewis, Rhode Island
"I had a difficult time falling asleep the other night. I started
to read (again) your poetry book. It is so comforting. I fell asleep
and had a good night's sleep. Where do you get all your ideas/thoughts
from?" - Elaine, Brighton, MA
"Your book is an amazing collection of a journey. Thanks!" - Joan, Brookline, MA
"Just to thank you for sending me your book so timely! I received
the book this week. It is a wonderful book!! I am enjoying reflecting
on all the poems. Very powerful with the right touch of humor.
Thanks for the beautiful dedication. Also, love your picture in the
back. Very nice!! Again, Congratulations! You are such a messenger of God! "-
Olga - Taunton, MA