Tim, my husband. He is so devoted to me, to our family, to our friends. He shows me ever y day what love can do!

My brother taught me to be excited about every new day’s adventure. He lived every day like that until he passed away a little over a year ago. I thank him for that wonderful life lesson.

I was off for an extended medical leave. Before i left i was teaching 12th graders. Now i am returning and will be teaching 7th grade…very different. It is going to be a learning experience for me! I am really looking forward to it. Any advice, Kevin? I know you often work with this age group.

The puppy is calm, lying on the rug resting. It is the first time in weeks that I don’t have to be supervising his every move. If i get up from the sofa the madness will start. I think i will use this opportunity to create a short film on my smartphone. Ive been compiling clips and ideas, now i will see what they all say.

I am pulled in many different directions these days, all of which require me to give selflessly. I kept saying i wanted to “do volunteer work.” Now I have the opportunity to help several people i know and their families without “signing up” with an organization. I like being of use without pay being involved. It feels very human.

No…that’s a lot of pressure! Haha

Every exchange I have with people and with the world is unexpected. It all affects me.

I was brainstorming yesterday with my husband things we can do to have fun. I cant think of any activities i do just for the fun of it. If im doing work i usually enjoy it, but i dont think thats the same as playing. Im looking forward to reading everyone’s responses because i am at a loss. I was taught by my father that fun is selfish and irresponsible.

That every human being gets treated with dignity and respect.

My neighbor unexpectedly passed a few days ago and his dear, frail wife is alone. My husband and I will visit her daily to help her out. “Sometimes there is only so much you can do, but you have to do that much.”

Giving up…it may allow me to open up to greater possibilities.

Do not detract from it’s beauty. Highlight what is good.

Live and let live…a space for all. Respect for all life.

Food, water, shelter, friendship,love…very fortunate

Difficult to answer. Art is an integral part of my life- my life would be meaningless without its many forms. I appreciate the artwork of others and enjoy my own unschooled attempts. Yet, to explain why eludes me, I think because art bypasses my conscious thought and speaks directly to my soul.

Right now…6am. No one is home except me and the puppy, who is taking a morning snooze. It’s quiet. The sun will be up shortly, and I’m filled with hope for the coming day.

I wrote the story of my life recently, a memoir of about 40,000 words. The story has been festering inside. Now that it is written, I feel I can finally let go of the pain and anger. I can see in retrospect the lessons I learned and how it all led me to the beautiful life I have today.

I too was thinking that I don’t usually take anyone for granted. Then I read these wonderful responses. Sharon’s really impressed and I think differently now.

Thank you, Aine, for letting me know how important our help can be and how we can really make a difference. I always look forward to seeing you here and reading your wise words! Bless you❤

Well said, Francine! Many days I’ve picked up the guitar to learn a new song that seemed to nourish my soul…the chords, the lyrics, the learning.