The Amanda Knox analogy is striking and I applaud you for using the comparison from someone so young. I have enjoyed all your writing you have shared of all your different struggles and finding ways to cope. You are amazing. Thank you.
This is so important...for myself it’s a oractice of embracing the circumstances as they are and asking what the moment calls for. One of the greatest prayers I say is “God teach me to love the life I have” screw the greener grass over there. Teach me to love this life here and now. It’s the only way to traverse liminal space.
What beautiful words she speaks. And you too. I also wrestle with this question as my health has made it difficult to do all that I would like to do. Seeking value from each day is actually a beautiful way to live, irrespective of circumstances.
I'm progressing thanks. Have embarked on a treatment program. It continues to be a lesson in learning to love and appreciate myself. I hope to start writing a couple of articles a month very soon. But it has to be fun and no pressure. Lots of useful lessons xx
Man! How can I make my DAY worth living, rather than how can I make my LIFE worth living sure takes the pressure off. A DAY plan seems manageable, whereas a LIFE plan is a bit daunting. (Thus the AA practice of One Day at a Time.) An unusual source for you, but ideas are often found in the least likely places. Thank you for another practical insight, Janice.
Hi Sharron, I too found that it takes the pressure off - the whole of life became more manageable and how wise of Amanda to have figured that out in her early 20s.
What a treasure of a piece today, Janice. As you might guess, I can relate. Being a widow brings on whole rafts of emotions I wasn't prepared for, including happiness! There are times when I wake up happy and I think I shouldn't, and then I remember times with Ed when we were both happy and it seems okay.
Amanda's words here really resonated:
"It was a sadness brimming with energy beneath the surface because I was alive with myself and my sanity, and the freeing feeling of seeing reality clearly, however sad that reality was."
And so did yours:
"Dan asked me to marry him on March 26th, 63 years ago. We built a life together, and I’ve agonized over how to make my life worthwhile without him. Having a new passion and purpose - that includes him in a way - is undoubtedly part of the equation, but how do I get through the day?"
We both had fulfilling marriages, which, to some, should make this even sadder, but I think it's just the opposite. I think so many years of good memories has a tendency to drown out some of the grief. As I'm remembering, I can't help but smile. Sometimes through tears, but they're healing tears.
Hi Ramona, That is the gift that shines through the grief - the fulfilling marriage. Like you and Ed, we married young. We grew up and old together. So many special memories to draw from and be grateful for - definitely some through tears. Thank you.
Thank you for sharing! I will remember what Amanda Knox and yourself point out: how do I make the now count?
Hi Diana, It's a good plan isn't it?
Indeed.
This a poignant piece of writing, Janice, full of self-awareness, and an abundance of hope ❤️
The Amanda Knox analogy is striking and I applaud you for using the comparison from someone so young. I have enjoyed all your writing you have shared of all your different struggles and finding ways to cope. You are amazing. Thank you.
Thank you Rita, I am so glad that you are enjoying the articles as much as I enjoy writing them.
This is so important...for myself it’s a oractice of embracing the circumstances as they are and asking what the moment calls for. One of the greatest prayers I say is “God teach me to love the life I have” screw the greener grass over there. Teach me to love this life here and now. It’s the only way to traverse liminal space.
A beautiful piece of writing that is filled with meaning
Thank you Allan. I was struck with her insights at such a young age.
I enjoy your posts Janice. Always get something from them. 👏
Hi Lee, I'm so glad to hear that - I certainly enjoy writing them.
What beautiful words she speaks. And you too. I also wrestle with this question as my health has made it difficult to do all that I would like to do. Seeking value from each day is actually a beautiful way to live, irrespective of circumstances.
Hi Cali, How are you? I agree about finding value from each day. It has made a difference, a little more doable if you will. Take care.
I'm progressing thanks. Have embarked on a treatment program. It continues to be a lesson in learning to love and appreciate myself. I hope to start writing a couple of articles a month very soon. But it has to be fun and no pressure. Lots of useful lessons xx
Man! How can I make my DAY worth living, rather than how can I make my LIFE worth living sure takes the pressure off. A DAY plan seems manageable, whereas a LIFE plan is a bit daunting. (Thus the AA practice of One Day at a Time.) An unusual source for you, but ideas are often found in the least likely places. Thank you for another practical insight, Janice.
Hi Sharron, I too found that it takes the pressure off - the whole of life became more manageable and how wise of Amanda to have figured that out in her early 20s.
What a treasure of a piece today, Janice. As you might guess, I can relate. Being a widow brings on whole rafts of emotions I wasn't prepared for, including happiness! There are times when I wake up happy and I think I shouldn't, and then I remember times with Ed when we were both happy and it seems okay.
Amanda's words here really resonated:
"It was a sadness brimming with energy beneath the surface because I was alive with myself and my sanity, and the freeing feeling of seeing reality clearly, however sad that reality was."
And so did yours:
"Dan asked me to marry him on March 26th, 63 years ago. We built a life together, and I’ve agonized over how to make my life worthwhile without him. Having a new passion and purpose - that includes him in a way - is undoubtedly part of the equation, but how do I get through the day?"
We both had fulfilling marriages, which, to some, should make this even sadder, but I think it's just the opposite. I think so many years of good memories has a tendency to drown out some of the grief. As I'm remembering, I can't help but smile. Sometimes through tears, but they're healing tears.
Ever onward, dear friend, every onward.
Hi Ramona, That is the gift that shines through the grief - the fulfilling marriage. Like you and Ed, we married young. We grew up and old together. So many special memories to draw from and be grateful for - definitely some through tears. Thank you.