Brave and beautiful, Susie. Connection is more is more universally relatable and more encompassing than the term empathy. Thank you for building connection via your writing.
That is so comforting, JoHanna. Everyone I know is trying to figure out what they can do. It's a gift to have something, anything to offer. Also appreciate the distinction between connection and empathy. Thank you!
Thank you, Susie. Who could ever follow in your steps after this exquisite expression of thoughts, feelings and connection! I totally agree……in TAPS that is what we talk about the most - “connection” with others who have traversed or are trekking the same thorn strewn path to “post traumatic growth” as healing from traumatic loss is called now. I’m not sold on it…..but whatever. My greatest connection at this time in the journey is my garden…….and God and Christopher and John Paul who show up there in a butterfly, a revived plant, a new color and the miracle of seedlings - I still cannot comprehend how a plant can grow out of this teeny seed barely planted in the earth. I always end up planting too many because - gosh - how can it be? Anyway, unlike you, I am rambling………..God bless your generous heart and have a lovely day.
I'd love to hear about why you're "not sold on it." Not at all challenging you...just really want to know. Seeds are so remarkable, especially little tiny ones like lettuce seeds. They're a lesson in abundance, how so much nourishment can be generated by something so small.
Thank you, Jinks. That's an interesting juxtaposition...It sounds as if realism and kindness don't normally go together. Can you explain what you mean by that?
As the rope becomes more frayed and we become more untethered, the darkness in some takes precedence over kindness. Your understanding of the bigger picture, of the reality of these days is permeated by kindness, which is the opposite. Your writing is usually large, inclusive and often holds paradox. I'm a big fan of paradox. Does this help?
I'm thinking of your understanding of reality being both/and. I think that's why I was unclear about reality as the opposite of kindness. Great conversation.
Brave and beautiful, Susie. Connection is more is more universally relatable and more encompassing than the term empathy. Thank you for building connection via your writing.
That is so comforting, JoHanna. Everyone I know is trying to figure out what they can do. It's a gift to have something, anything to offer. Also appreciate the distinction between connection and empathy. Thank you!
Thank you, Susie. Who could ever follow in your steps after this exquisite expression of thoughts, feelings and connection! I totally agree……in TAPS that is what we talk about the most - “connection” with others who have traversed or are trekking the same thorn strewn path to “post traumatic growth” as healing from traumatic loss is called now. I’m not sold on it…..but whatever. My greatest connection at this time in the journey is my garden…….and God and Christopher and John Paul who show up there in a butterfly, a revived plant, a new color and the miracle of seedlings - I still cannot comprehend how a plant can grow out of this teeny seed barely planted in the earth. I always end up planting too many because - gosh - how can it be? Anyway, unlike you, I am rambling………..God bless your generous heart and have a lovely day.
I'd love to hear about why you're "not sold on it." Not at all challenging you...just really want to know. Seeds are so remarkable, especially little tiny ones like lettuce seeds. They're a lesson in abundance, how so much nourishment can be generated by something so small.
Connection and maybe acts of random kindness. Beautiful piece on many levels.
I'm a great believer in random acts of kindness. Anyone can enhance the power of love in the world in that way...no special training required
I like that. Why didn’t I think of that? Lol - thank you.
xoxo
Of everything I’ve read that you’ve written, this is my favorite. 🙏🧡
I really went for it, as you did in your piece about not being OK. Sometimes you have to pull out all the stops, right?
There is great empathy in this, Susie, for all of us. I especially like your fine blend of realism and kindness.
Thank you, Jinks. That's an interesting juxtaposition...It sounds as if realism and kindness don't normally go together. Can you explain what you mean by that?
As the rope becomes more frayed and we become more untethered, the darkness in some takes precedence over kindness. Your understanding of the bigger picture, of the reality of these days is permeated by kindness, which is the opposite. Your writing is usually large, inclusive and often holds paradox. I'm a big fan of paradox. Does this help?
I'm thinking of your understanding of reality being both/and. I think that's why I was unclear about reality as the opposite of kindness. Great conversation.