Building a World of Peace, Village by Sacred Village.
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What a pleasure to have been interviewed by the extremely wise and talented priestess herself: Ann Keeler Evans! Ann may all the warmth, generosity and wisdom you give to others return to you ten fold!
I love this series and I am so happy to read about the sensational Dawn Z Bournand on the sensational Ann Keeler Evans’ new site. May the force be with us all. Thank you both for being in my life. Nancy
Love this profile. Thank you Ann for sharing Vicki’s story with us. I now love her even more than I did before. What a beautiful story about her wedding and how telling of what her soul is made of!
This is so wonderful. Your wedding story Vicki is just so wonderful, that I am crying as I read it. Ann, the way you have phrased these questions is so thoughtful. What poignant answers. My heart is swelling. Nancy
All we need is loVe with a captial V for Vicki. If everyone would invite just one ‘Misfit’ to their party/ wedding/ events, education levels would rise so drastically. Thank you Vicki for being you, I love you!
Thank YOU Ann for sharing my story.
Dawn, Nancy and Barbara…Thank YOU for reading!
My wedding was such a special day in so many ways for so many people, I’m just glad I could share it with the people who meant so much to…after all, weddings are a celebration and we all loVe to celebrate!
loads of loVe to you ALL…V.xx
I read this this morning from my phone, whilst snuggled up on the sofa where I fell asleep last night, nested in pillows and fleece. I’ve had some pretty freaky dreams lately, but it never occurred to me that this is the time of year for such things. I have been pondering them. I have no answers yet. But thanks for the permission to doze. 🙂
I hope you publish all your peace postings in book form. They are better than anything this peacebuilder has ever read. At the risk of sounding too gushy, I will tell you that having you in my life if only via Facebook (so far) is a huge treasure!
I really think (as I wrote in my blog post, link below) that this is an enormous crisis
that remains unaddressed. For all of the community support that the Internet potentially offers, there is equally the loss of civility, notably among the young but also modeled by adults in public forums. The Steubenville example is appalling but not nearly as unusual as it ought to be. Note that two girls were arrested today for sending
threatening texts and a threat on FB to the teen victim. The Internet permits us to forget that there is a human being on the other end of the line. Keep in mind that the younger generation, especially those in their teens, spend much more time texting than they do in face-to-face communication. Even when they are face-to-face, they are usually distracted by the texts they are receiving and sending.
Ah, writing to find out what I know, that is exactly how I do it. Someone once said, “How do I know what I mean until I see what I say?” Yeah, that sounds like me, and isn’t it a delight to find out that two different methods can be paths with a common destination? I’m really enjoying these, Ann.
I am sitting her weeping as I read your “laid bare” emotion….I am STILL grieving the loss of my Dad 8 mths ago….and now as we are about to go thru Winter I am riddled w/sadness…it makes death seem more real this time of year.
Ann, I had the privilege of holding my sister as well. And you captured pretty much how I felt and sometimes feel. My big sister spared so many people the knowledge of exactly what was happening to her, being her graced self to the end. I am so glad I slept in her hospice room for all three of her last nights, to be there so she would not panic because her mouth no longer could move. To be there. WITH THE PEACE. For peace there was. My own chaos came afterward, as it is with you. At least close enough so I do feel I can say to you I understand. I am here. I will send you my number through another channel. Beautiful writing, beautiful love, sister, and beautiful you. I love you.
powerful emotions so beautifully wrought. Love and strength to you in this chapter without Deb’s physical presence to relish. Her spiritual presence cannot be dimmed.
As always, your words break my heart but inspire as well. Your sister Deb was very blessed to have you for a sister. Anything I can do to help you, please do not hesitate to call upon me.
Love,
Cindy
Thank you, Ann. Thank you for writing this, the poetic part and the agonized words before it. It won’t help you just now, I’m afraid, but in the future, I hope it helps to know that you made me feel less alone in the world with your honest words. So many private thoughts when a loved one (in my case, my mother) leaves this world, and one feels that he cannot disclose them. But there they are, in that spirit of pain and loss, there in your own words. Thanks for somehow once again reminding me that none of us are alone.
How beautiful and wrenching. There is no opening to heaven we can see when we are left behind to grieve. But you join the grieving world, with eloquence, confusion, and ashes. May you be comforted, my friend.
Beautiful and stirring piece, Ann. The rawness of the experience felt so true to me….And the complexity of all the feelings… Loss, guilt, abandonment, pain, all coexisting with love and need.
Your words are a powerful description of life’s economic reality.
It seems that to win in America is to not have to work as if a job is an activity that we all dislike.
We all need meaningful work that contributes to the common good and work that inspires us to get up and earn a living wage.
I know you have read and heard so many words, but, I am adding some more. Emotional pain is so strong I don’t believe any words make the pain less. Does time?
Death is better than a life of pain, and eternal rest than constant sickness.
Seek not to understand what is to difficult for you,search not for what is hidden from you. Be not over-occupied with what is beyond you, for you have been shown more than you can understand.
As a drop of water in the sea, as a grain of sand on the shore are man’s few days of eternity . The good things in life last for limit Ed days, but a good name endures forever.
Ann when I am struck by the beauty of this time of year it brings fond memories of my Dad. We were always “woodsy” people and the memories flood back and yes, sometimes w/tears. But I am finding that now sometimes the tears are for happiness I remember, not sadness for the loss. Wishing you peace today and always. Please kno that I care xo
once again I am moved to tears by your writing Ann. Thank you for being there as I am still in that place of grieving…coming up on the 1 yr marker of my Dad’s passing is weighing on me lately…the upcoming holidays….Peace to you my Friend xo
Lovely, Ann ~ your description of where you are on this day in your life. Reading this today put a gentle smile to my face because I realize that the shock of Deb ‘s death is slowly passing and you are moving on to the next phase of grief. I wish I lived closer so we could chat openly about that but since we don’t, I am sending a hug filled with lots of warmth and caring your way.
I have been reflecting much this past month and a half, along with your much needed help…your writings….they mean so much yet some days you speak to my much deeper pain…depression, and the fear it brings in winter…I too am finding peace and daring to feel hopeful. We are purchasing a new home and this makes me reflect on the other’s before me who have lived there. Thank you once again Ann xo
ahhhh Annie, I weep again…..the anniversary of my Dad’s death is fast approaching…the 29th of Dec. will never be the same for me again…. Still I too gathered w/family and friends and in some moments I too was happy, other moments terribly sad…Bless you Priestess xo
Great first post and Deb’s picture is beautiful. Look forward to your writings in 2014. Thank you so much for including me on your list! And, my friend, it was so great to see you on Monday, You truly are a special lady!
I’ve been part of a women’s sacred song circle for three years at the UUS:East in Manchester, CT. Every Thursday we sit in a circle and we sing. We learn by repetition together–songs of the earth, of peace, of healing, of joy. That you spontaneously did this must have been an overwhelming experience Ann. How wonderful.
That’s the beauty of being your own boss and/or the head of your faith group because you can develop your own style guide. Many companies and organizations often follow a recognized style guide (Chicago, AP, etc.), but they specify when they wish to deviate from the standard. Now, I think it would be cool if YOU named your own style guide.
When I write my astrology pieces, I just write how I want to write, and heck with a style guide (except my own, of course). Have a great weekend!
I don’t usually take the time to send notes but this note struck a cord with me. If everyone did what you suggested by putting away a little money for what matters, how much easier their lives would be. I certainly hope this idea becomes ingrained in many people’s minds! Thank you for sharing this notion, Ann.
What a beautiful poem about Lightning Bugs. Do I detect an echo of Robert Frost in your use of simple sounding but highly rythmic speech patterns to express profound ideas?
Beautifully written as always, Ann, and emotionally understood by so many who were raised in the same generation that we were. The sadness that abounds right now and the openness of so many to the realization that there is help out there for depression is the goodness that has come out of the sadness of losing such a talented and giving man ~ this post has definitely touched my heart and I’m sure the hearts of many more.
WELCOME HOME, sweet friend. There is no place like home and yet I appreciate that you left a piece of your heart behind as always. Love and hugs to you!
I know EXACTLY how you feel. When I returned from France at the end of July I tried to get to the outdoor pool just about every day. It was special seeing you there on the last day. Thank you for capturing these thoughts in writing so beautifully.
It was lovely to see you and welcome you home… and to be standing in waters that mean the world to both of us. It’s sweet to have someone who understands!
Thanks Ann for a very thoughtful article. I am forwarding it to Lee Ann Etscovitz who wrote the book of poetry I read from last week. Also your kind words about me.
Yes they do (have their own sweet peace)! I had no siblings, but on winter Sundays under the “lap robes,” my cousin and I would sometimes pinch each other or play hangman and tic tac toe, and both of us love those memories.
P.S. From whence came the words “lap robes?” They were simply heavy blankets.
I think they were probably shaped a bit differently… used for sleighs and wagons… I’ve heard it mostly for sleighs… and yep… checked, laid over the lap and knees for warmth while traveling! 🙂 whoo… let’s travel!
–“people in parts of the world where change is much harder than here NEED TO KNOW that we believe that they’re the change.” What great insight, and absolutely right on. I love today’s Pink Moon Dark Moon Lunacy, too. Sacred Village has provided such motivation that I’m immediately changing my whole day’s plan. Delegating all errands to husband and I’m getting to work!
You whisk me back to childhood memories that I love–warm flower-filled springs in NW Arkansas (particularly the scent of hyacinths and honeysuckles), bumble bees buzzing, end of school activities, a basketful of books beside the front porch swing. Blessed peace.
Ann,
I love this. I feel the same way about swimming – though I haven’t yet had my first dip of the season. Looking forward to it now more than ever.
Love,
Judy
While you are right on certain aspects of this imbroglio, you are, in my humble opinion, dead wrong on others. This mother has been separated for four months, and started dating after three. You seem to assume it’s a legal separation but no one has said that. If it isn’t, she is putting her welfare at risk (and that of her children) because even in “no-fault” states, adultery still counts. More important, no one mentions how old these children are but three months is not a long time to process anything, especially divorce. The research is categorical: it’s the introduction of third parties (parents’ lovers) that causes most of the damage suffered by kids. Why is she bringing this guy home? That’s what sitters are for, or an older child watching younger ones. MUCH too soon, much too destructive for the kids, and selfish and self-validating behavior on the mother’s part. The sisters are not as wrong as you make out, Sorry P and B. I’m not with you on this one, And yes, I was a single mother who didn’t date for a long time.
It’s so hard sometimes. When you hear about the impact of great human cruelty on a daily basis at work from your own patients and then you have experienced it yourself at a very early age. The suffering of the world can weigh heavily on a person who is working to ameliorate it. It sometimes feels like rushing around to put fingers in a dam. That story of onlookers. In Britain jeering a suicidal woman realy got to me. Obviously, I work with m a many suicidal people.
Totally agree with the thrust of your message. However my experience indicates that hate is not expressed as much as the act of ignoring the presence or needs of the other.
I think experience varies for folks. and it runs the gamut from being “overlooked” to being physically endangered… so we need to keep chipping away at what’s there…
Beautiful! Sorting between needs and wants….what to keep, what to purge. I’m getting better at deciding to let go. Practice and a sense of mortality have been helpful in my quest for less clutter. Talking both physical and emotional clutter. The more I get rid of the clutter, the more free I feel. And the beautiful moon, ahhh, that moon! Peace
HI Ann – It’s the Randy & Sally show here in WI
I really appreciated this. April surely is playing out here. We had 60’s and one 70 and now 29 and snow showers all day. In fact the next 4 days. But then she relaxes just a bit, puts on a spring daffodil dress, and allows us some 50’s and sunshine. I shall think of you often this April. Love, US
There’s a lovely moment in a movie from quite a while ago. I think the movie was called “Living Out Loud.” The character played by Holly Hunter, who’s in her 40s and has been hit with a divorce, struggles to find herself. Towards the end of the movie, she’s happy to be alone and she goes to a restaurant by herself with a book. From across the room, another even older woman by herself with a book salutes her. They smile. At least that’s the way I remember the moment from the movie. As I remember it, it was a lovely and affirming moment. As it seems you had the other day!
Ann, you know our story. Katy got her new kidney a year ago on the 21st. Living in a small town with very close community ties, we were able to meet her donor’s mother. She is a woman of infinite strength who in her darkest hour chose the gift of life. This anniversary has been so very bittersweet,for all of us.I grieve so much for her loss as she rejoices for our recovery. Jody shared this with me and it is so relevant right now. Thank you thank you thank you. XxOo Amy
Good counsel. A script that says “no loner having this conversation,” in THREE different ways may have helped too.
I love Virginia Satir’s phrases:
broken record: repeat the same phrase no matter what other says (i.e., not going there Ethel, here to have dinner as a family)
and fogging: saying something inane as a reply … esp. good for nosey people. Someone may ask, “how much do you make?” Fogging reply: the sky is a wonderful shade of blue.
I am a huge fan of counseling, but until you get there, these phrases help deflect verbal power of meanness.
Great exit lines help, too: Mom, Dad, sis … tasty dinner – thanks, now back to my love-filled life. See you in the rapture!
Parents and sister need to know tgey are not the ONLY game in town.
Thank you, Ann, for posting that piece by Notty Bumbo. A few of us felt freed to express our own frustrations a bit more on my timeline when I shared it. That can make such a difference sometimes. We can feel as if we are human pressure cookers sometimes–remember those! A post like that can be our escape valve of release. We sing. We tutor. We paint. We write. Mostly, perhaps what peacemakers do best is simply love, even at the risk of loving to boldly, with one’s own version of great sloppy slurps! I don’t know, but thank you!
I read a piece about what we can do… perhaps you posted it. I just remember a snippet where a Muslim man said, “Smile at me in the grocery store.” He spoke of feeling as if everyone looks at him as a potential terrorist. I am not one to say “Be perky and smile.” Nope. Not me. BUT, I have been focussing this last year far more on looking a fellow customer in a convenience store, at a restaurant, in a gift shop–looking him or her in the eyes and THEN smiling my hello. Sometimes we kid around. Sometimes it is a small nod in return. Usually there is a relaxing of the face and shoulders and I think that this matters. I KNOW that this matters. It does for me, too! Those small acts of daily life. Thank you, Ann.
Oh, how I loved singing with you, too.. Lewisburg one night in the park… we sang back up… and one night on the river. Averie with pure joy in her eyes, your face a study in happiness. Thank you to you both for reawakening my own voice, too.
What a pleasure to have been interviewed by the extremely wise and talented priestess herself: Ann Keeler Evans! Ann may all the warmth, generosity and wisdom you give to others return to you ten fold!
I love this series and I am so happy to read about the sensational Dawn Z Bournand on the sensational Ann Keeler Evans’ new site. May the force be with us all. Thank you both for being in my life. Nancy
A very inspiring interview! The story of Helen Keller always intrigued me too. One day we will meet, Dawn, I just know it!
Love this profile. Thank you Ann for sharing Vicki’s story with us. I now love her even more than I did before. What a beautiful story about her wedding and how telling of what her soul is made of!
This is so wonderful. Your wedding story Vicki is just so wonderful, that I am crying as I read it. Ann, the way you have phrased these questions is so thoughtful. What poignant answers. My heart is swelling. Nancy
All we need is loVe with a captial V for Vicki. If everyone would invite just one ‘Misfit’ to their party/ wedding/ events, education levels would rise so drastically. Thank you Vicki for being you, I love you!
Thank YOU Ann for sharing my story.
Dawn, Nancy and Barbara…Thank YOU for reading!
My wedding was such a special day in so many ways for so many people, I’m just glad I could share it with the people who meant so much to…after all, weddings are a celebration and we all loVe to celebrate!
loads of loVe to you ALL…V.xx
Thank you so much for this Ann. I just know had a chance to read it. This was fun to do and your questions were excellent. Nancy
This is lovely Ann…thank you!
Yea!!!! Lucy you are one special girl!!!!!
I love your insight…
How can we see these facebook entries? We could like and share, too.
Go here to sign up! Thanks! http://www.facebook.com/SacredVillage
this is just lovely, LOVELY, Ann. And the story and painting together, soo sweet. Thanks for the peaceful thoughts!
I read this this morning from my phone, whilst snuggled up on the sofa where I fell asleep last night, nested in pillows and fleece. I’ve had some pretty freaky dreams lately, but it never occurred to me that this is the time of year for such things. I have been pondering them. I have no answers yet. But thanks for the permission to doze. 🙂
Oh I needed this today!
Another much needed message, both the poem and the commentary above it. Thank you, Ann!
I hope you publish all your peace postings in book form. They are better than anything this peacebuilder has ever read. At the risk of sounding too gushy, I will tell you that having you in my life if only via Facebook (so far) is a huge treasure!
Thanks Sharon, I haven’t figured out where that might happen yet, but I have hopes!
This poem is lovely, Ann, and I really like to think on the concept of roots reaching out. Beautiful! Thank you.
Let’s light a fire somewhere soon! And we can celebrate those inbetween spots too. I like this.
it’s a wonderful way to build a fire. steve’s ready, he’s always ready for a fire. if only we had a place to light one! 😀
Interesting stuff about Irish funerals/wakes… just fyi 🙂
http://www.yourirish.com/traditions-of-an-irish-funeral
Hi Gil,
Up in Vt with your bro…. Snowish.
xox
p
I really think (as I wrote in my blog post, link below) that this is an enormous crisis
that remains unaddressed. For all of the community support that the Internet potentially offers, there is equally the loss of civility, notably among the young but also modeled by adults in public forums. The Steubenville example is appalling but not nearly as unusual as it ought to be. Note that two girls were arrested today for sending
threatening texts and a threat on FB to the teen victim. The Internet permits us to forget that there is a human being on the other end of the line. Keep in mind that the younger generation, especially those in their teens, spend much more time texting than they do in face-to-face communication. Even when they are face-to-face, they are usually distracted by the texts they are receiving and sending.
http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/tech-support/201303/drama-the-internet-is-it-making-us-stupid
I always love a good, and useful pun. And if Shakespeare could make up his own words so can we. The Peace-ibilities are endless!
Amen, sister!
Indeed it is. 🙂
Ah, writing to find out what I know, that is exactly how I do it. Someone once said, “How do I know what I mean until I see what I say?” Yeah, that sounds like me, and isn’t it a delight to find out that two different methods can be paths with a common destination? I’m really enjoying these, Ann.
I love this idea! I intend to share it with my friends in the Caucuses and the Balkins where peace-building is still essential.
Very nice words Ann. I am so into becoming a peacemaker!!!
no need to become one… just do it! and why not!
hey! what’s true is true!
Its food and cuisine are a great place to begin understanding another culture!
I’ll remember to have a pitcher of iced tea ready if you are ever in my neck of the woods!
I can’t even imagine what kind of lovely spin you can put on iced tea! xoa
I am sitting her weeping as I read your “laid bare” emotion….I am STILL grieving the loss of my Dad 8 mths ago….and now as we are about to go thru Winter I am riddled w/sadness…it makes death seem more real this time of year.
Gentle hug.
Ann, I had the privilege of holding my sister as well. And you captured pretty much how I felt and sometimes feel. My big sister spared so many people the knowledge of exactly what was happening to her, being her graced self to the end. I am so glad I slept in her hospice room for all three of her last nights, to be there so she would not panic because her mouth no longer could move. To be there. WITH THE PEACE. For peace there was. My own chaos came afterward, as it is with you. At least close enough so I do feel I can say to you I understand. I am here. I will send you my number through another channel. Beautiful writing, beautiful love, sister, and beautiful you. I love you.
My heart is breaking for you, Ann. It’s very little solace to say I’m sorry, but it’s all I have. Sending much love….
I love you, and wish there was a way to take away the hardest blow. Xoxo
powerful emotions so beautifully wrought. Love and strength to you in this chapter without Deb’s physical presence to relish. Her spiritual presence cannot be dimmed.
Here I sit weeping AGAIN, your writings always move me Ann, but this, so close to where I STILL am emotionally….fragile….missing my Dad so palpably….
Oh Sweet Ann,
As always, your words break my heart but inspire as well. Your sister Deb was very blessed to have you for a sister. Anything I can do to help you, please do not hesitate to call upon me.
Love,
Cindy
Thank you, Ann. Thank you for writing this, the poetic part and the agonized words before it. It won’t help you just now, I’m afraid, but in the future, I hope it helps to know that you made me feel less alone in the world with your honest words. So many private thoughts when a loved one (in my case, my mother) leaves this world, and one feels that he cannot disclose them. But there they are, in that spirit of pain and loss, there in your own words. Thanks for somehow once again reminding me that none of us are alone.
How beautiful and wrenching. There is no opening to heaven we can see when we are left behind to grieve. But you join the grieving world, with eloquence, confusion, and ashes. May you be comforted, my friend.
Beautiful and stirring piece, Ann. The rawness of the experience felt so true to me….And the complexity of all the feelings… Loss, guilt, abandonment, pain, all coexisting with love and need.
Your words are a powerful description of life’s economic reality.
It seems that to win in America is to not have to work as if a job is an activity that we all dislike.
We all need meaningful work that contributes to the common good and work that inspires us to get up and earn a living wage.
That’s the husband I know and love! love the ensemble playing, my sweet (more cowbell, always more cowbell!) 😀
I know you have read and heard so many words, but, I am adding some more. Emotional pain is so strong I don’t believe any words make the pain less. Does time?
Death is better than a life of pain, and eternal rest than constant sickness.
Seek not to understand what is to difficult for you,search not for what is hidden from you. Be not over-occupied with what is beyond you, for you have been shown more than you can understand.
As a drop of water in the sea, as a grain of sand on the shore are man’s few days of eternity . The good things in life last for limit Ed days, but a good name endures forever.
Psalms and verses after Ben Sira
So sorry, Ann. There are no words. Love you.
Ann when I am struck by the beauty of this time of year it brings fond memories of my Dad. We were always “woodsy” people and the memories flood back and yes, sometimes w/tears. But I am finding that now sometimes the tears are for happiness I remember, not sadness for the loss. Wishing you peace today and always. Please kno that I care xo
once again I am moved to tears by your writing Ann. Thank you for being there as I am still in that place of grieving…coming up on the 1 yr marker of my Dad’s passing is weighing on me lately…the upcoming holidays….Peace to you my Friend xo
“if we knew, we would never live in the present”…..exactly how I am feeling…..
Lovely, Ann ~ your description of where you are on this day in your life. Reading this today put a gentle smile to my face because I realize that the shock of Deb ‘s death is slowly passing and you are moving on to the next phase of grief. I wish I lived closer so we could chat openly about that but since we don’t, I am sending a hug filled with lots of warmth and caring your way.
I have been reflecting much this past month and a half, along with your much needed help…your writings….they mean so much yet some days you speak to my much deeper pain…depression, and the fear it brings in winter…I too am finding peace and daring to feel hopeful. We are purchasing a new home and this makes me reflect on the other’s before me who have lived there. Thank you once again Ann xo
Thanks my love for our time together this evening.
I love thee.
Amen
ahhhh Annie, I weep again…..the anniversary of my Dad’s death is fast approaching…the 29th of Dec. will never be the same for me again…. Still I too gathered w/family and friends and in some moments I too was happy, other moments terribly sad…Bless you Priestess xo
I am doing this today…very lazy lol
In the process….having just moved has really been a Blessing in disguise!!
Great first post and Deb’s picture is beautiful. Look forward to your writings in 2014. Thank you so much for including me on your list! And, my friend, it was so great to see you on Monday, You truly are a special lady!
Nice! I already forwarded today’s “message” to Janice…And I recognize Betty’s flowers in your heading!
Lovely, Ann ~ If only more people could see life through your eyes. Hugs, dear friend.
I’ve been part of a women’s sacred song circle for three years at the UUS:East in Manchester, CT. Every Thursday we sit in a circle and we sing. We learn by repetition together–songs of the earth, of peace, of healing, of joy. That you spontaneously did this must have been an overwhelming experience Ann. How wonderful.
That’s the beauty of being your own boss and/or the head of your faith group because you can develop your own style guide. Many companies and organizations often follow a recognized style guide (Chicago, AP, etc.), but they specify when they wish to deviate from the standard. Now, I think it would be cool if YOU named your own style guide.
When I write my astrology pieces, I just write how I want to write, and heck with a style guide (except my own, of course). Have a great weekend!
I don’t usually take the time to send notes but this note struck a cord with me. If everyone did what you suggested by putting away a little money for what matters, how much easier their lives would be. I certainly hope this idea becomes ingrained in many people’s minds! Thank you for sharing this notion, Ann.
Your poems are mesmerizing ! This is one of the bests of your own site. The writing is going better each day. God bless you.
Wow! My thoughts exactly. And I love the poem.
Now check out Carol King’s song from 1971 or so, “Welcome Home”.
What a beautiful poem about Lightning Bugs. Do I detect an echo of Robert Frost in your use of simple sounding but highly rythmic speech patterns to express profound ideas?
Thank you so very much.
Roger
Amen, sister!
So lovely, so true.
Beautifully written as always, Ann, and emotionally understood by so many who were raised in the same generation that we were. The sadness that abounds right now and the openness of so many to the realization that there is help out there for depression is the goodness that has come out of the sadness of losing such a talented and giving man ~ this post has definitely touched my heart and I’m sure the hearts of many more.
WELCOME HOME, sweet friend. There is no place like home and yet I appreciate that you left a piece of your heart behind as always. Love and hugs to you!
“I’m an extrovert, so yard sales are overwhelming. Too many people and too much stuff. ”
Wha… huh!? What do you think about how we introverts feel?
I know EXACTLY how you feel. When I returned from France at the end of July I tried to get to the outdoor pool just about every day. It was special seeing you there on the last day. Thank you for capturing these thoughts in writing so beautifully.
It was lovely to see you and welcome you home… and to be standing in waters that mean the world to both of us. It’s sweet to have someone who understands!
Thanks Ann for a very thoughtful article. I am forwarding it to Lee Ann Etscovitz who wrote the book of poetry I read from last week. Also your kind words about me.
Yes they do (have their own sweet peace)! I had no siblings, but on winter Sundays under the “lap robes,” my cousin and I would sometimes pinch each other or play hangman and tic tac toe, and both of us love those memories.
P.S. From whence came the words “lap robes?” They were simply heavy blankets.
I think they were probably shaped a bit differently… used for sleighs and wagons… I’ve heard it mostly for sleighs… and yep… checked, laid over the lap and knees for warmth while traveling! 🙂 whoo… let’s travel!
–“people in parts of the world where change is much harder than here NEED TO KNOW that we believe that they’re the change.” What great insight, and absolutely right on. I love today’s Pink Moon Dark Moon Lunacy, too. Sacred Village has provided such motivation that I’m immediately changing my whole day’s plan. Delegating all errands to husband and I’m getting to work!
thanks for the cheers! and let’s go!
You whisk me back to childhood memories that I love–warm flower-filled springs in NW Arkansas (particularly the scent of hyacinths and honeysuckles), bumble bees buzzing, end of school activities, a basketful of books beside the front porch swing. Blessed peace.
So moving. Thank you, Ann Evans.
Also… OMG! The party was four freakin’ hours. He couldn’t go four hours without his wine?
and couldn’t think of anyone else? but no, he has no problems with alcohol…
Ann,
I love this. I feel the same way about swimming – though I haven’t yet had my first dip of the season. Looking forward to it now more than ever.
Love,
Judy
It is so hot in NYC at the moment that i would give a lot for a dip in the pool… How are you! love seeing the pics of you with graduating grands!
love, Ann..
While you are right on certain aspects of this imbroglio, you are, in my humble opinion, dead wrong on others. This mother has been separated for four months, and started dating after three. You seem to assume it’s a legal separation but no one has said that. If it isn’t, she is putting her welfare at risk (and that of her children) because even in “no-fault” states, adultery still counts. More important, no one mentions how old these children are but three months is not a long time to process anything, especially divorce. The research is categorical: it’s the introduction of third parties (parents’ lovers) that causes most of the damage suffered by kids. Why is she bringing this guy home? That’s what sitters are for, or an older child watching younger ones. MUCH too soon, much too destructive for the kids, and selfish and self-validating behavior on the mother’s part. The sisters are not as wrong as you make out, Sorry P and B. I’m not with you on this one, And yes, I was a single mother who didn’t date for a long time.
It’s so hard sometimes. When you hear about the impact of great human cruelty on a daily basis at work from your own patients and then you have experienced it yourself at a very early age. The suffering of the world can weigh heavily on a person who is working to ameliorate it. It sometimes feels like rushing around to put fingers in a dam. That story of onlookers. In Britain jeering a suicidal woman realy got to me. Obviously, I work with m a many suicidal people.
Have a great time on your vaca ~
No Wifi :-0 !!!
Love this…..
You two are so right on the money every time. I love reading these.
Totally agree with the thrust of your message. However my experience indicates that hate is not expressed as much as the act of ignoring the presence or needs of the other.
I think experience varies for folks. and it runs the gamut from being “overlooked” to being physically endangered… so we need to keep chipping away at what’s there…
sweet….
RB Winter is beautiful.
Lovely. Simply lovely.
Lovely and moving….
Lovely and hits the tone just right. <3
Lovely and very deep in spirit.
Ann, sending love and thanks for you always speaking out.
Lovely. And so glad people came…
Beautiful! Sorting between needs and wants….what to keep, what to purge. I’m getting better at deciding to let go. Practice and a sense of mortality have been helpful in my quest for less clutter. Talking both physical and emotional clutter. The more I get rid of the clutter, the more free I feel. And the beautiful moon, ahhh, that moon! Peace
YES! YES! YES!
Love this! Thanks, Ann
LOVE this! Thank you Ann.
Hm. Bob sounds like this letter writer’s boyfriend: http://www.slate.com/articles/life/dear_prudence/2016/02/dear_prudence_my_boyfriend_has_a_heart_defect_can_i_break_up_with_him.html
Seems I have found my way to something spiritual & practical here.
Welcome! Glad to have you!
Tack sa Mycket for the focus on completing projects & for quoting my Swedes.
VarsÃ¥god! i folded the socks in my drawer the other day to have something I’d finished!
What a lovely perspective! Here I’ve been moping around thinking “April is the cruelest month…” Thank you!
HI Ann – It’s the Randy & Sally show here in WI
I really appreciated this. April surely is playing out here. We had 60’s and one 70 and now 29 and snow showers all day. In fact the next 4 days. But then she relaxes just a bit, puts on a spring daffodil dress, and allows us some 50’s and sunshine. I shall think of you often this April. Love, US
Oh, thanks for this. I love being connected on FB. hope your retirement is grand. Love to both of you!
Thank you for this message. Here I’ve been concerned about what my neighbors think of all my dandelions!
Will do. Thank you.
and peaches!
ah, but we won’t have peaches until august. but yum it’s all yum!
There’s a lovely moment in a movie from quite a while ago. I think the movie was called “Living Out Loud.” The character played by Holly Hunter, who’s in her 40s and has been hit with a divorce, struggles to find herself. Towards the end of the movie, she’s happy to be alone and she goes to a restaurant by herself with a book. From across the room, another even older woman by herself with a book salutes her. They smile. At least that’s the way I remember the moment from the movie. As I remember it, it was a lovely and affirming moment. As it seems you had the other day!
Ann, you know our story. Katy got her new kidney a year ago on the 21st. Living in a small town with very close community ties, we were able to meet her donor’s mother. She is a woman of infinite strength who in her darkest hour chose the gift of life. This anniversary has been so very bittersweet,for all of us.I grieve so much for her loss as she rejoices for our recovery. Jody shared this with me and it is so relevant right now. Thank you thank you thank you. XxOo Amy
Beautifully evocative of my summers growing up in Catawissa. Thanks sweet lady
Good counsel. A script that says “no loner having this conversation,” in THREE different ways may have helped too.
I love Virginia Satir’s phrases:
broken record: repeat the same phrase no matter what other says (i.e., not going there Ethel, here to have dinner as a family)
and fogging: saying something inane as a reply … esp. good for nosey people. Someone may ask, “how much do you make?” Fogging reply: the sky is a wonderful shade of blue.
I am a huge fan of counseling, but until you get there, these phrases help deflect verbal power of meanness.
Great exit lines help, too: Mom, Dad, sis … tasty dinner – thanks, now back to my love-filled life. See you in the rapture!
Parents and sister need to know tgey are not the ONLY game in town.
typo alert: no longer having this conversion
Thank you, Ann, for posting that piece by Notty Bumbo. A few of us felt freed to express our own frustrations a bit more on my timeline when I shared it. That can make such a difference sometimes. We can feel as if we are human pressure cookers sometimes–remember those! A post like that can be our escape valve of release. We sing. We tutor. We paint. We write. Mostly, perhaps what peacemakers do best is simply love, even at the risk of loving to boldly, with one’s own version of great sloppy slurps! I don’t know, but thank you!
I love this!! Thank you
Beautiful. I must share this.
I love that quote. And I love the message.
I read a piece about what we can do… perhaps you posted it. I just remember a snippet where a Muslim man said, “Smile at me in the grocery store.” He spoke of feeling as if everyone looks at him as a potential terrorist. I am not one to say “Be perky and smile.” Nope. Not me. BUT, I have been focussing this last year far more on looking a fellow customer in a convenience store, at a restaurant, in a gift shop–looking him or her in the eyes and THEN smiling my hello. Sometimes we kid around. Sometimes it is a small nod in return. Usually there is a relaxing of the face and shoulders and I think that this matters. I KNOW that this matters. It does for me, too! Those small acts of daily life. Thank you, Ann.
And love. I will work for love of one another–just another shade of the same work.
I love this. Thanks for sharing a little of your mom.
Oh, how I loved singing with you, too.. Lewisburg one night in the park… we sang back up… and one night on the river. Averie with pure joy in her eyes, your face a study in happiness. Thank you to you both for reawakening my own voice, too.
LIVE music helps you live and it is the word evil spelled backward.
Beautifully written Ann Keeler Evans.g
I love this… I am a rock collector too.
Love the thoughts, the words, the meanings and the post. Thanks so much, lady….