These are such deeply tough and tender times. While I’m typically optimistic, especially regarding the possibilities I see in my clients – between the wars, the election, and the loss of my dad, it’s been harder than usual to feel hopeful. But then I stumbled upon this poem by Ellen Bass and felt as if a dear friend had reached for my hand and pointed to a way forward. I offer the poem, and my warm hand, to you.
The Thing Is
To love life, to love it even
when you have no stomach for it
and everything you’ve held dear
crumbles like burnt paper in your hands,
your throat filled with the silt of it.
When grief sits with you, its tropical heat
thickening the air, heavy as water
more fit for gills than lungs;
when grief weights you like your own flesh
only more of it, an obesity of grief,
you think, How can a body withstand this?
Then you hold life like a face
between your palms, a plain face,
no charming smile, no violet eyes,
and you say, yes, I will take you
I will love you, again.
Ten Year Anniversary of my Memoir!
Hard to believe it’s been ten years since my book, Where Have I Been All My Life? was published. While one part of me can’t believe I shared so much personal stuff, another part of me is grateful every time a reader tells me how glad they were that I did! If you’re struggling to overcome your people-pleasing ways, claim your own voice, or free yourself from childhood conditioning, this book is for you. The best-selling author Marci Shimoff graciously offered: “Where Have I Been All My Life is an engaging, nourishing must-read for any woman who wants to love and accept herself more fully.”
Update on Sixty-in-Sixty: Coaching For A Cause! (10 Sessions Remain!)
You may recall that to lean into my 60th year, I’m offering 60-free coaching sessions in exchange for $60 donations to the You Matter Marathon or charity of your choice. The response has been AWESOME. We’ve raised over $2,700 for worthy causes and had some spectacular coaching conversations. There are 10 sessions remaining so sign-up today or share this offer with a friend.
Until next time, take care of yourself.
