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    October 20, 2024 | 1:30 AM
    in ABSURDITY, ART, COLUMNS
    11

    By Gary Martin

    Thomas Paine said, “These are the times that try men’s souls.” Published in 1776 at a time when General George Washington’s troops were facing humiliating defeats and the loss of New York City to the British, his words were meant to inspire troops to stand firm. The harder the conflict, the greater the triumph.

    That said — it’s hard for a leopard to change its spots. In this metaphor, I’m the leopard. But at least I’m trying….

    * * *

    Gary B. Martin is an illustrator and animator who has lived on the Upper West Side for more than three decades. His Sunday illustrations for West Side Rag chronicle life in the neighborhood, New York City, and the Universe.

    Watch for Gary’s illustrations on Sundays in the Rag and see them all here. For a broader range of Gary’s work, including animations and other motion graphics, please visit www.martoons.com

    Subscribe to West Side Rag’s FREE email newsletter here. And please check out the Support the Rag button below.

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    11 Comments
    Nook
    Nook
    1 year ago

    C’mon leopard! You can do it! I know you can. We’re all in this anxiety together.
    [Maybe start by changing your shirt. You’ve worn that same one for 20 cartoons now…] 😉

    3
    Reply
    Sharon
    Sharon
    1 year ago

    Who you kidding? You’re doing great! Thank you for sharing your thoughts even when they’re a little negative.
    Negative can be good in medical tests.
    It’s also good when strategizing in business, looking at all sides of situations.

    2
    Reply
    Ellen White
    Ellen White
    1 year ago

    Adorable! Love the double entendre! So smart that Gary!

    1
    Reply
    Lisa Cordaro
    Lisa Cordaro
    1 year ago

    I’m positive I’m negative too. There’s a lot of it going around

    4
    Reply
    Mark Christopher Hampton
    Mark Christopher Hampton
    1 year ago

    It’s hard to be particularly positive these days, but humor helps. Thanks, Gary!

    5
    Reply
    Swami Howiloveya
    Swami Howiloveya
    1 year ago

    I hear ya. I’m even impatient with my meditation practice lately. Trying days indeed!

    3
    Reply
    Don
    Don
    1 year ago

    I get it!!!
    Hard not to be negative these days…

    3
    Reply
    Westside reader
    Westside reader
    1 year ago

    Look forward to Gary’s cartoons,..read them religiously. kadoos to Mr Martin for making me smile and I’m sure several other WSR readers.
    Suggestion: Gary should have some swag for sale ie coasters, mugs attitude check meters
    (last one I’m kidding! ) am I?

    3
    Reply
    Sandra Polsak
    Sandra Polsak
    1 year ago

    With only a few weeks to go in an exhausting election season, there are all too many of us with a negative patience quotient….

    3
    Reply
    Edith Tyson
    Edith Tyson
    1 year ago

    Haha, good one Gary. I think I’m getting there too!

    3
    Reply
    APC
    APC
    1 year ago

    Haha! Another great one!

    1
    Reply

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