Mary, I resonate so much with all the feelings and emotions you shared. The vulnerability of your writing gives me courage to face and explore what I’m feeling and experiencing. Your beautifully expressive writing draws me in every time. I’m very grateful you started this Substack!
First, the name "Heart's Content" is just right, as you write to your heart and to ours. Second, you have been and will be a wonderful, engaging, nourishing writer. Nourishing writing like yours gives us not only things to chew on, but substance for our growth and expansion. Sometimes I read you and reflect on your offerings, only to return and reflect more. That's good stuff! (I want to hug your little self and big self often!)
One friend of mind immersed herself in art therapy, and the Painting Experience became her rich life of expression. Healing came forth in her life in colors and patterns she didn't know existed. A local restaurant invited her to display and sell her work there, work which she wished to be her legacy going out into the world. In short order, the restaurant burned to the ground, her grief compounded beyond any she'd known before. Her deep grieving of her stories on canvas morphed into her exhibitions of photographs of nature. Annelle Hollingsworth, Whidbey Island, WA wrote beyond pain and loss, adding poetry to her magnificent photos. You care about yourself enough to continue beyond where you thought you would go, as Annelle has. It's an absolute blast, a joy to witness where you were, are now and will be~ Go Mary!
Ellen, I hardly know where to begin, but allow me to begin with gratitude for you. Thank you for taking the time to respond so generously and from the heart. The phrase 'nourishing writing' resonated with me and I hope to continue to tilt my heart in that direction. Thank you, too, for sharing those examples of others pouring themselves out and honoring their stories and art through their evolving creative expression. That was a good reminder to me that its not the thing you make but the love you pour into the making. And "You care about yourself to continue beyond where you thought you would go" ...mmm...so good. Oh so grateful for our connection and friendship, Ellen. You have shone a light for me more than once. Thank you for your encouragement. <3
Hey there. I read your story and enjoyed it very much, was moved by it, and thought it was very well written. I tried to respond to you right after I read it, but had a problem getting authenticated and then needed to sign in. I get frustrated with these types of barriers, and didn’t back to it until now. These stories are so important and I feel honored that you shared yours with me. I will most certainly will go through the electronic hoops next time. I hear you, Mary. I do, with love and compassion.
Robin, thank you for taking the time to comment, and for your beautiful response and support. I understand about the electronic hoops and what a hassle it can be. I've heard that from a few people. Your presence here is a gift.
Mary, I resonate so much with all the feelings and emotions you shared. The vulnerability of your writing gives me courage to face and explore what I’m feeling and experiencing. Your beautifully expressive writing draws me in every time. I’m very grateful you started this Substack!
Thanks, Gina! And I am likewise oh so happy to have found you here!
First, the name "Heart's Content" is just right, as you write to your heart and to ours. Second, you have been and will be a wonderful, engaging, nourishing writer. Nourishing writing like yours gives us not only things to chew on, but substance for our growth and expansion. Sometimes I read you and reflect on your offerings, only to return and reflect more. That's good stuff! (I want to hug your little self and big self often!)
One friend of mind immersed herself in art therapy, and the Painting Experience became her rich life of expression. Healing came forth in her life in colors and patterns she didn't know existed. A local restaurant invited her to display and sell her work there, work which she wished to be her legacy going out into the world. In short order, the restaurant burned to the ground, her grief compounded beyond any she'd known before. Her deep grieving of her stories on canvas morphed into her exhibitions of photographs of nature. Annelle Hollingsworth, Whidbey Island, WA wrote beyond pain and loss, adding poetry to her magnificent photos. You care about yourself enough to continue beyond where you thought you would go, as Annelle has. It's an absolute blast, a joy to witness where you were, are now and will be~ Go Mary!
Ellen, I hardly know where to begin, but allow me to begin with gratitude for you. Thank you for taking the time to respond so generously and from the heart. The phrase 'nourishing writing' resonated with me and I hope to continue to tilt my heart in that direction. Thank you, too, for sharing those examples of others pouring themselves out and honoring their stories and art through their evolving creative expression. That was a good reminder to me that its not the thing you make but the love you pour into the making. And "You care about yourself to continue beyond where you thought you would go" ...mmm...so good. Oh so grateful for our connection and friendship, Ellen. You have shone a light for me more than once. Thank you for your encouragement. <3
I love this. Thank you for sharing, as always <3
Thanks for your comment, Caitlin. And your support. <3
Hey there. I read your story and enjoyed it very much, was moved by it, and thought it was very well written. I tried to respond to you right after I read it, but had a problem getting authenticated and then needed to sign in. I get frustrated with these types of barriers, and didn’t back to it until now. These stories are so important and I feel honored that you shared yours with me. I will most certainly will go through the electronic hoops next time. I hear you, Mary. I do, with love and compassion.
Robin, thank you for taking the time to comment, and for your beautiful response and support. I understand about the electronic hoops and what a hassle it can be. I've heard that from a few people. Your presence here is a gift.