The Retired Honorable Army Major
71Joseph S. Spence Sr.
Born in Kingston Jamaica
1.Where are you from?
I was born in Kingston, Jamaica from a lineage of Scottish descendant that immigrated and settled in Westmoreland, Jamaica; however, I am now residing in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
2. Tell about where and how you were raised; you schooling etc?
I was raised by my biological parents Kenneth Spence and Olive Spence, both business Entrepreneurs. I attended All Saints High School and St. Luke’s Anglican Church, where I was baptized and confirmed. I was raised with my six brothers and two sisters. We were a closely-knitted team of siblings.
Upon graduation from high school, I attended The College of Art, Science and Technology in Jamaica where I started studying telecommunication engineering. I was later asked by one of my brothers to relocate to New York and assist him with his business operation. When I landed in New York it was freezing cold and snowing. That was my first encounter with the cold and the snow. While in New York I attended MidtownBusinessSchool and studied accounting. I obtained an undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland in business and management, and I also have graduate degrees from WebsterUniversity in St. Louis, Missouri, and WashburnUniversity in Topeka, Kansas.
3. What is or was your career or how did you earn a living?
I served twenty-five years in the United States Army. I first enlisted as a private with no rank. I was promoted to sergeant in three years; this was during the end of the Vietnam conflict. I had several breaks in service were I worked at different jobs. For example, I worked as a real estate consultant and tax consultant while attending the University of Maryland, where Icompleted the Reserved Officers Training Corps to become acommissioned officer in the military. I graduated as the Distinguished Military Graduate as was promoted to the rank of second lieutenant. I eventually retired in 1997 at the rank of major. While serving in the military I volunteered to become a Eucharist minister under the directions of the Episcopal Bishop of the Armed Forces. I also worked as an adjunct faculty member at various colleges at night to assist students in advancing their education.
4. Have you served your country in any way?
I have served in the United States Army for twenty-five years. I enlisted in the army as a private and retired as a major. Some of the units I served with as a paratrooper are as follows: 75th Airborne Rangers, 82nd Airborne Division, and 101st Airborne Division. I have held leadership position from that of a team leader, squad leader, platoon leader, company executive officer, company commander, battalion executive officer and acting battalion commander. During military service I served in Egypt, Israel, Germany, Korea, Panama, and various bases and places in America, such as Kentucky, North Carolina, Kansas, New Jersey, and Virginia just to name a few. I have also served in the field of law enforcement for approximately two years as a police officer during a break in my military service.
5. How long have you been and how did you come to be a member of the private members only Alliance?
I have been a member of the Alliance since its beginning. Prior to that, I was a member of Poetry and Passion. When the leadership separated I was asked to be the Prayer Chaplin for the Alliance. I accepted the position for several reasons: individuals need Christ in their lives; I am used to praying for people since childhood; I have a degree in Divinity from Faith Theological Seminary; I have served in the United States Army as a volunteered Eucharist Minister for many years, where I assisted solders with many issues in that capacity. After retiring from the military, I was licensed and ordained as a minister by the BaptistChurch, based on my training and experience.
6. Have you ever won anything or been awarded anything in life (include here our sites poetry logo’s achieved)?
I would need a book to answer this question. During my tour in the military I have received numerous awards, decorations and citations for exemplary service. As a student, I have also received various awards for studiousness. As a tax consultant, I have received various awards for excellent service. Here at theAlliance, I have received the Level-five Logo in the Stylist group and the Bard Logo. Regarding my books, I have won the Best Christian Poetry Award for the book, Trilogy Moments for the Mind, Body and Soul; and I have received the Publisher’s Best Seller Award for my latest book, The Awakened One Poetics. By the way, while on the Old Blue poetry site, I received the National Poet Laureate and corresponding National Reviewer awards; additionally, many of my poems were listed in the top-100 category. I also received the poetry ambassador award from the International Library of Poetry. I have also won the Platinum Expert Author Award from Ezine Articles for writing 100 Articles in 100 Dayswith 400 of more words, just to name a few.
7. How did your interest in writing poetry begin?
My interest in writing began as a child. I attended extracurricular activity schooling on the weekends in Jamaica where I studied math and English with my siblings. I started writing poetry which my mother developed in me. While in the military I wrote poetry more seriously. While there, I assisted many soldier with their poetry writing to loved ones back home. We then sprinkled cologne on the poetic pages before mailing, believe me, it worked wonders. When my mother passed away in 2003, I wrote my first book in her honor,
A Trilogy of Poetry, Prose and Thoughts for the Mind, Body and Soul. It helped me in dealing with the grief and agony of her passing.
8. Have you published any books or been featured in any?
I have published four book, A Trilogy of Poetry, Prose and Thoughts for the Mind Body and Soul (2005); Trilogy Moments for the Mind, Body and Soul(2006); The Awakened One Poetics (1st edition 2009); and, The Awakened One Poetics (2nd edition 2010). I have been featured in many books published by The International Library of Poetry, the Alliance, World Haiku Association, Taj Mahal Review, Harvest of New Millennium, and many others, including online sites, such as World of Poetry just to name a few.
9. Have you any preferred style of poetry that you like to write in?
Although I have invented seven poetic forms, I still love to write in all poetic forms and styles. Being opened to the world of poetry writing enhances one capability and ability to write. The more one writes the greater one will be able to write, thus, not limiting one’s ability for advancement. I have invented many styles, however, the Epulaeryu poetry invented by me is most in my heart.
10. If you could change anything in your own life what would it be…?
I wished if I had more time to spend with my children during my military service which spanned over quarter of a century.
They grew up so fast and the next thing you know that are off on their own. Now they are busy with their own kids; at least, I am enjoying my eight grandchildren.
11. What do you think of the alliance; is it a good place for writers/poets?
The Alliance is an awesome place for poets and writers. It fosters studiousness in each poet. It offers a variety of activities for poets to participate in, it’s not limiting, and it’s always developing new focus and the like. One of the most elevating things about the alliance is that it offers the poets and writers a medium for publication of their books, which is limited on a variety of sites.
12. If you could make a wish and have it come true what would it be?
This is a very interesting question. I would love to see hunger and hate eliminated from the world. I think this would save many from the judgment, especially when Christ returns to claim His world.
13. If you had the chance to live your life again what era would you like it to be in past or future and why?
I would love to be in the same era. Based on what I have acquired and the knowledge gained I would be able to make a greater impact on the world and my environment for the betterment of people.
14. Are there any special words of advice that you would like to see acted upon by the next generation?
I could think of many: seek Christ, stay away from street drugs, help each other to achieve, abide by God’s laws, do the best that there is to do in whatsoever one has to do, and set a positive example for others to follow.
15. What are the final words you would like to say to the reader?
Life is not static; it’s dynamic and keeps on moving like a river. Just don’t let it runs dry on you. Also find other tributaries or rivers for nourishment. Let it be a source of hope and inspiration for others to obtain their nourishment from and to base their lives on as an example to follow; but most of all put God first and all the desires will follow.
To see all my books in detail please visit my websites
http://www.theawakenedonepoetics.com/
Thank you! for reading ... Blessings Joseph
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Thank you Robert for your wonderful comments! I have tried to make myself likable; however, it’s hard these days with so much controversy in the world. At least the people who are close to me are likable. They like my poetry also.
Thanks again and blessings always,
Joseph
You hit it on the head Bob joseph is not just liked he is loved by all ... Pat xxx
A wonderful interview Joseph and the world and your poetry
friends and readers are blessed with knowing you. Some people are liked by everyone around them and I feel you are such a
person. Robert Hewett Sr.
Hello Sherrita,
Thanks for your wonderful comments. It was really a fascinating trip down memory lane. How could I ever forget the times we all spent together at Ft. Campbell, Kentucky and Ft. Carson, Colorado. Those were really wonderful days. As you know I have worked hard with my children. Thanks for refreshing my memory. You’re blessed too; just keep looking upward and forward. I wish you much success in all your endeavors.
Blessings always,
Joseph
Hello Sonni,
Thanks for your wonderful comments. It was indeed a wonderful trip down memory lane. I will never forget the times we all spent together at Ft. Campbell, Kentucky and Ft. Carson, Colorado. Those were really wonderful days. As you know I have worked hard with my children. Thanks for refreshing my memory. You’re blessed too; just keep looking upward and forward.
Blessings always,
Joseph
Yes A delightful trip down memory lane you have truly been a blessing in my life I thank God for you Much Success!!!
Peace and Love
Sherrita
Very nice interview indeed! A delightful trip down memory lane..You've never settled for second best and that's evident in you as well as your children...you are BLESSED
Thank you Meg for your wonderful comments! I hope all is well with you. I really enjoyed reading your poems also. Keep me in your thoughts and prayers. I am always praying for you and your safety from the hurricanes and tornadoes. God bless you always my friend.
Joseph
You are indeed very acomplished.I havea always enjoyed readng your poetry, especially Epulaeryu. God Bless my dear friend.
Hello Alice,
Thank you for the noteworthy review and comments. I must say that twenty-eight years has been a long time and over that period of time individuals acquire positive information which makes a person a shining star—the more the better! I have always loved writing and speaking. Thanks for pointing that out. I will make it an endeavor to follow my passion. Thanks again and blessings always,
Joseph
Thank you Lee for your wonderful comments! The more we know about someone the more comfortable we are with that person and the more trusting. Hopefully, each member of the Alliance will be able to continue on that journey for the betterment of each other.
Blessings always,
Joseph
Hello Joseph:
I am very proud of you and your accomplishments. Although I have known you for over 28 years, I learned something new about you from reading your interesting interview. One thing I knew for sure about you is that you have always had a passion for writing and expressing yourself through writing and speaking. Continue to follow your passion in writing and I am most certain that you will fulfill your life purpose. May God's blessings and favor be upon you every day of your life.
Alice Marie
Hello Pat,
That's a wonderful tercet poem with a monorhyming pattern. It flows very well. If your dad were here he would be amazed.
Blessings always,
Joseph
This is indeed an excellent interview Joseph. So much of what I have read here I already know. Now so many more can read about all your achievements. Your poetry writings and your life has been an amazing journey. Wishing you continued success, Take care always, Lee
Thank you Harshada for your wonderful comments! I feel honored that Karunesh passed the interview along to you for a reading and comment. Regarding your book, please do the following: get out and have book readings, get into the vendors’ markets and showcase your book, seek time on radio stations and television stations for the promotion of your book, and pass cards out to others regarding your book. It’s a wonderful book, with awesome poems. Go for it and best wishes!!!
Blessings always,
Joseph
Hello Karunesh,
It’s a pleasure to hear from you my friend and to receive your noteworthy comments. Certainly, we had a wonderful time in Vilnius with the group of poets; hopefully, there will be other days to come when we will be able to fellowship. Thank you for passing on the interview to Harshada Pathare for her reading and comment. Wishing you God’s speed in all your endeavors!
Blessings always,
Joseph
Definetly most caring willing to be
Anchor most gentle you'll ever see
Dad, you're terribly missed by me....Pat simpson xxx
Dear Karen,
Thank you for your wonderful comments! I’ve also enjoyed reading your poem and have known you as a gifted writer with a caring soul. I also wish you the best in all your endeavors with God’s speed.
Blessings always to you my friend in Christ!
Joseph
Thank you Pat, Claudia stick close to me, she is the oldest girl. She is not interested in poetry; however, she has translated some poems for me in The Awakened One Poetics. My youngest daughter had a short stint in open mike poetry; however, she is back in school and is working on a graduate degree. My eldest son has shown no interest; however, the youngest with the most interest has transitioned from poetry to acting and is in college working on an undergraduate degree. I also wish if my Dad was here to see the great things his children are doing and to call him DAD.
Thanks, for sharing the beautiful insights. Just Awesome.
You have an excellent personality. I can never forget the time I passed with you in Vilnius. Your interview has touched me. My heartly congrates to you...
Dear Joseph,
Wonderful interview. Your faith shines in your life and in your words. I've enjoyed getting to know you as a kind and caring person as well as a gifted writer. Wishing you the best. God bless you my friend.
Karen
Thank you Claudia for your wonderful comments and review! Yes, a trip to Jamaica would be great. If you finish your graduate degree this semester, that will be okay for Christmas. I don’t want you to be distracted from your studies. We will have plenty of time for vacations.
Blessings and love always,
Dad
Thank you Christina for your lovely comments! Your interview also held my interest. It appears that we both started writing books for the same reasons. I am also honored to call you my good friend, Christina. Boy, we certainly have been on quite a few poetry sites, and we are still here. I really like the “Dynamic Ladder” poems written by the Alliance members in the forum. God bless you also in all your endeavors,
Blessings always,
Joseph
How lovely for Claudia to be able to say great interview DAD ... how I wish my Dad was here to say Dad too...
So happy your family joining in ... are there any other poets following your footsteps in your family ...Pat xx
Thank you my baby sis Kathy. Thanks for reading my books, and it’s my pleasure to read and review your for you. It’s always a pleasure to communicate with you my friend. Keep up your wonderful writing also and hugs to you too.
Blessings always,
Joseph
Thank you Marilyn for your awesome review and comments! It’s a pleasure for me to call you friend also. We have known each other for a long time from a variety of poetry sites. How is Timbooktu doing? I haven’t been there in quite some time. Now that I am retired I am taking life easy. However, I am always here to assist the members of the site.
Blessings always,
Joseph
Great interview dad!
Thank you Mike44 for the splendid comments! I posted a prayer for you over the weekend; hopefully, you’re feeling much better. Your poems remind me of the days I was stationed at Ft. Campbell, Kentucky and had to drive through the mountains. Yep, they were alive and brewing.
Take care my friend and God bless always,
Joseph
Thank you Iolanda for your excellent comments! I thought your life was very interesting with the transitioning between two different countries and governments. It must have been great for you to be in the West. You must have a story to tell. As for me, I just didn’t have the time to sit around; I just had to make hay while the sun shines.
Blessings always,
Joseph
Hello Ruth, thank you for your wonderful comments. It’s amazing how much we learn about someone just from a personal interview. The people on the Alliance are just super! Pat and I were on other sites where people just constantly flare up at each other for anything. I was so happy when she started this site. Thanks for the pat on the back regarding my military service. Stick around the Alliance and continue to write; next thing you know you will be a pro.
Blessings always,
Joseph
Thank you Pat for having me there. It's my pleasure to be of assistance to the members of the Alliance. Keep doing what you're doing for its members.
Blessings always,
Joseph
Lovely interview Joseph. It certainly held my interest as I learned more about you. It was really interesting and I am honored to call you my friend. Your poetry is dynamic just like that lovely style you created and we did one week in the forum.. "The Dynamic Ladder". God bless you in all your endeavours... Christina
just astounding interview my dear friend very inspiring for many generations to come also I have couple of joesph's books and it makes me research my soul from within keep up the wonderful writing and work Joe many hugs my friend
What an awesome interview Joseph. You are a man that I am glad to call friend, You have done so many things in your life and I am sure you will never stop achieving anything you want to try. Thanks for being here for us all to enjoy and ask advice from your vast sources of knowledge love of God. Love ya always, MAFLongfellow/MARILYN
JOSEPH THE MASTER IS THE NAME I ALWAYS CALL YOU AND IT IS A NAME THAT YOU EARNED BY ALL OF THE FANTASTIC THINGS YOU HAVE BEEN ABLE TO DO WITH YOUR LIKE
I AM MORE THEN PROUD TO KNOW YOU MY FRIEND. THIS INTERVIEW WAS GREAT MASTER
What an amazingly rich life full of accomplishments and adventures! Nice to know you, Joseph! Pat, here is another excellent interview. Great job! Love, iolanda
Joseph....I was so happy to read this interview and learn more about you. I haven't been on the Alliance as long as many of you great poets, but for the time I've been here, I've met so many wonderful people. Now, I feel like I know you so much better! I want you to know how much I appreciate all the years that you spent in service to our country...thank you! It has been a true pleasure meeting you here and I look forward to reading more of your poetry. Warmly, Ruth (Meowserkat)
Thank you Joseph for your friendship and continued support of the alliance and all the poets ...pat xxx
Thank you Dena for your most wonderful review! I thought the dice has twenty-one sides, lol!!! The 82nd Airborne Division at Ft. Bragg was a proving ground for me as a young officer leading airborne troops who were ready to fight anytime of the day or night. I earned my Blood Wings at Ft. Benning, Georgia, and my Prop Blast at Bragg. I am also honored you as an outstanding poet and good friend.
Blessings always,
Joseph
Thank you Erich my friend for your wonderful comments! When I was much younger I ran lots of marathons. While running I would thinks of things to do when I get back to the office. Now I walk and still think of things to do, but not as much. I see that I have lots of friends on this site and you are certainly one of them.
Blessings always,
Joseph
Thank you Rhoda for your most gracious comments! Hopefully, the hurricane did not touch your part of the Island and you're safe. I said a prayer for you to not get flooded and any wind damage. Take care of those fabulous cats. Thanks again and blessings always,
Joseph
Thanks you Pat for your wonderful remarks. It's a pleasure for me to be the Prayer Chaplin for the Alliance. I have been praying for people all my life, just about. You're also wonderful in every way my dear friend. Thanks for the interview and keep up the great work you're doing.
Blessings always,
Joseph
Thank you Mary my sister in Christ. It's a pleasure to hear from you. I am trying to stay afloat here but all these medals are slowing me down, lol!
Blessings always,
Joseph
Congrats Joseph....there's more sides to you than in a 20 sided dice!! You really have amassed a wonderful life...
Bragg is our neighbor over here...and many fine friends I have made with all ranks of the militery. Many earned their Blood Wings. I am honored to know another outstanding Poet and friend.
Pat, what can I tell you...You have done a wonderful interview! Thanks for sharing your talent and knowledge!
Between you and Bob, we have seen more sides to our friends!! I am loving it!
Joseph...Thank you for being a friend!!
Brightest Blessings to you and yours!
What an informative interview, with many great and honorable acomplishments. I'm always enjoying reviewing you beautiful and inspirational poetry.I'm honored to call you my friend.God bless you.Erich
Invormative interview and a very interesting life. Thank you for your service to our country. Good things come about with God in one's corner. Joseph has proved this again and again. Blessings to you. Chesakat
Joseph You are one Wonderful man in every way I am so proud to call you my dear friend ... The work you do as Prayer Chaplain on the Alliance is wonderful ... because we all know the power of a loving prayer... Blessings to you Joseph Always ... Pat Simpson xxx
Excellent review Joseph..glad to know you as my mentor and brother in Christ..Continue the good work...
Joseph S. Spence, Sr. 7 months ago
Thank you Pat! It's such a beautiful thoughts to know that loves makes the world go around.
Blessings always,
Joseph