Cleopatra, Queen of Denial

About the Book

Yes, I know. If one wishes to sell his book, he must tell potential readers that it will give them pleasure, tell them how to fix whatever needs fixing, or reinforce their religious or political beliefs. But I am an old man who is not seeking fame or fortune but is contented with the discontent in his life. There are some hard realities that most of us do not wish to face. These include the fact that you well may suffer pain, sorrow, agony, confusion, frustration, anger, loneliness, grief, and a sense of defeat and hopelessness. And then, you will die. So, of course, you sometimes question what life is all about and whether or not there is some inherent meaning to it. With all the downsides of life, there is a greater reality. This book offers evidence that the world we live in really does make sense, really is growing in a positive direction, that these truths really are within a human’s grasp, and that being aware and fathoming reality is the key to a meaningful, joyous life. Looking objectively at our fearful emotions and fusing them with the positive emotions of peace, joy, good humor, pleasure, and, will, if allowed, lead to a balanced and wonderful life.

About the Author

Dr. Cox, in his younger years, worked as a steel mill laborer, an electrician, and an electrical contractor. He later, as an electrical engineer, was manager of the research and development department in the manufacturing division of Harris Corporation in Melbourne, Florida, working primarily on the space program. After completing graduate work at Stetson University and Florida State University, he began a new career in social sciences research, first as a research associate at Florida State University and then to at RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. He retired as Senior Research Psychologist after directing more than fifty national, state, and local research projects. Currently he, at age 93, lives with his wife, Julie, age 88, in Cary, North Carolina. The animals in the book are ones with which he was personally acquainted; however, to avoid paying them royalties, fictitious names are used.