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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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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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