Introducing Harmlessjoyce (aka Joyce Elferdink), this blog’s author

After watching the movie, Julie and Julia, I realized the significance of shared glimpses and gambits on what is purposeful and meaningful in our lives. Some of my own perceptions are profiled through my novel; who knows, maybe it will include pieces of you.

This is what I would tell everyone: I am distinctly creative and reasonably intelligent, with a zany sense of humor. These are a few of my favorite things: science fiction (and most other books, too); stimulating conversation (actually that should be at the top of the list); any shades of pink and purple; trying new things and visiting new places (especially with my grandchildren); and the list goes on…

This is what you may want to know: I have a masters’ degree in Communications and Urban Studies from Michigan State and have used my interdepartmental degree for two different careers. Urban Studies enabled me to be an effective economic development director, bringing jobs to communities by attracting new industries. The communications focus has allowed me to teach public speaking, English and writing, and several other topics at the college level starting with a public speaking class at a military base for Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee. By the way, I never planned to teach public speaking because I didn’t take the course in college–I was among the majority who let fear hold us back . Neither did I plan to go into the Peace Corps but I volunteered after my children left home. I was in the first group ever to go into Kazakhstan.  Our mission was to set up Small Business Development Centers to serve entrepreneurs who had never before had the opportunity to run a business. It was the most fascinating and frustrating experience of my life.

This is what I only tell my supporters and my friends: You are urged to contribute realistic, respectful feedback on whatever I offer, but especially on passages from my novel or excerpts from editorials.

I challenge you to take up the tools of verbal and written communication, our greatest resources for “being the changes we wish to see in the world” (Gandhi).

You can count on me to do my part to make this blog lively, entertaining, but always focused on a point and a plea–to be just and do not fear. You can also count on me to be regularly present, sometimes provocative, and always passionate in my role as facilitator of this site.

Welcome to harmlessjoyce’s Blog: A Novel Site!