After 30 years, being alone almost always feels like a gift now. I know who I am, my home is selfishly and delightfully my own and my choices about plans aren’t a long, frustrating negotiation without answers. When I want to share time with people I meet, or care about, I don’t have to fret over his liking them to know that things will go smoothly. So today is mine, without sorrow or guilt. I love the idea of a box of light, mine is many journals filled with quotes from my reading. Thanks for this piece of thoughtful writing.
Those of us, of a certain age, grew up learning to be strong…pull yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep moving. It takes a moment, once one discovers that self-care is possible and necessary. So many changes at this age. Life, relationships, career, relevance …but still the need to put the oxygen mask on me first!
My box of light is filled with little people that love me and light up when they see me!
Regina has been "pulling herself up" & taking care of herself & her little girl as a young woman & continues to do so. She has been "strong" & not only has practiced "self-care" since her youth, but taught all of us to do the same thing, as an award-winning Author & Writer.
It appears that I have inadvertently offended you. As a CLE resident, I’m fully aware of the talent and compassion that Regina shares through her influence and writing. I was simply trying to express that we grew up in a time that self reflection and self care were not the norm. Once discovered, it still takes a bit to feel it and do it. That’s all…
I love this and your box of light! What a great idea the big index cards are - I’m definitely going to do this and will think of you, Regina, each time I write down a quotation. 😊 Thanks also for the book recommendation!
Somehow Gina, you are right on time. I'm despairing. I've been disabled from a work accident for nearly 8 years now and SS disability is my only income. Now as you know the admin. is going to make it more difficult to survive and I fear that's not all. I got disabled no fault of my own, yet the employer of course rejects any responsibility. The SS is survival level income at best - How does one fight back the tears, find hope ? *How terribly selfish of me; I'm so sorry to learn of your misfortune. This is just all exploding around....
Give yourself credit, Regina, that you had a trusting nature & a soft heart to have fallen in love with your (soon-to-be-ex?) husband, to begin with. Lots of us may have had one loving relationship for awhile or for a season. Give yourself credit you trusted your heart & LOVE. You can trust your heart, now.
After 30 years, being alone almost always feels like a gift now. I know who I am, my home is selfishly and delightfully my own and my choices about plans aren’t a long, frustrating negotiation without answers. When I want to share time with people I meet, or care about, I don’t have to fret over his liking them to know that things will go smoothly. So today is mine, without sorrow or guilt. I love the idea of a box of light, mine is many journals filled with quotes from my reading. Thanks for this piece of thoughtful writing.
Those of us, of a certain age, grew up learning to be strong…pull yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep moving. It takes a moment, once one discovers that self-care is possible and necessary. So many changes at this age. Life, relationships, career, relevance …but still the need to put the oxygen mask on me first!
My box of light is filled with little people that love me and light up when they see me!
Regina has been "pulling herself up" & taking care of herself & her little girl as a young woman & continues to do so. She has been "strong" & not only has practiced "self-care" since her youth, but taught all of us to do the same thing, as an award-winning Author & Writer.
It appears that I have inadvertently offended you. As a CLE resident, I’m fully aware of the talent and compassion that Regina shares through her influence and writing. I was simply trying to express that we grew up in a time that self reflection and self care were not the norm. Once discovered, it still takes a bit to feel it and do it. That’s all…
Not at all. I appreciate your insights. No offense taken. I’m in self care kindergarten but might soon graduate to first grade!
I think maybe your comment was misunderstood.
I thought it was insightful.
I interpreted the “pull yourself up” part as talking about a generation of women — not advice to Regina!
Thanks for sharing your insights. We’re all just walking each other home, as Ram Dass said. Thanks for joining me on the journey!
Thanks for reminding me about author Elizabeth Berg. I used to read her books all of the time. The quotes you printed are helpful to me. 🌻
I love this and your box of light! What a great idea the big index cards are - I’m definitely going to do this and will think of you, Regina, each time I write down a quotation. 😊 Thanks also for the book recommendation!
Somehow Gina, you are right on time. I'm despairing. I've been disabled from a work accident for nearly 8 years now and SS disability is my only income. Now as you know the admin. is going to make it more difficult to survive and I fear that's not all. I got disabled no fault of my own, yet the employer of course rejects any responsibility. The SS is survival level income at best - How does one fight back the tears, find hope ? *How terribly selfish of me; I'm so sorry to learn of your misfortune. This is just all exploding around....
Give yourself credit, Regina, that you had a trusting nature & a soft heart to have fallen in love with your (soon-to-be-ex?) husband, to begin with. Lots of us may have had one loving relationship for awhile or for a season. Give yourself credit you trusted your heart & LOVE. You can trust your heart, now.
Awesome! Box of light!
You are better than therapy, Regina. This nest in my heart is real - someday, not yet, I’ll let the fledgling go.