2018 Goodbyes

Carol A. Hand

There are times when I just cannot write from the heart. I need to take a break and focus on physical or analytical tasks that help me find emotional detachment and balance. It’s one of the major reasons I have not posted or visited blogs during the holidays.

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I took this photo in the morning

before I learned that a dear friend died

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It portrays what days of loss

sometimes feel like to me

My grandson’s other grandmother died

just before Christmas, and this morning,

my granddaughter’s father passed away

2018 was a year of so many losses and changes

It’s the third year I have faced my own mortality

Despite a heavy heart, though,

I still awake each morning

knowing that what I do for others now

in the time I have left matters even more

 

I have snowy sidewalks to shovel

in the north country I love

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There are courses to plan for students

I will learn to care about this year,

and dear family to care for while I’m here

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Despite losses I will continue to rise and greet each day

to do what I can to stay healthy and balanced,

to contribute to the light in simple humble ways

and to remain grateful for the wonder and blessings of life

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Please know that I am grateful to all of you for being part of my life, too. I send my best wishes to all. May you have a peaceful and wonder-filled new year.