Trigger warning: This post includes descriptions of intimate partner violence. Read with intention and take care. First, a poem written by Stanley Kunitz: "The Layers" I have walked through many lives, some of them my own, and I am not who I was, though some principle of being abides, from which I struggle not to … Continue reading Explorations of the Self, part 2
Relationships
Lions, Tigers, and Small Talk, Oh My!
When I first considered today's prompt, causal, I quickly thought of casual conversations and the small talk it usually entails. And then I shuddered, because I find small talk to be difficult on many levels. I struggle to think of things to say. It takes a very conscious, concerted effort to answer the common "How … Continue reading Lions, Tigers, and Small Talk, Oh My!
Partner While You Wait
This is what I have learned. Partners don't always get along. Partners don't always partner. Partners don't always know how to partner. Partners don't always want to partner. Can they become a better partner? Yes. Should you wait around for that? Sometimes. What do you do in the mean time? (While waiting on the one … Continue reading Partner While You Wait
Meddle in Your Own Life
For much of my life I have struggled with the aching fear "Who am I to decide what I want/where to go/what to do/how to be." To make a decision for myself felt like I was meddling in affairs beyond my scope and ability. For many reading these words, you will have no idea what … Continue reading Meddle in Your Own Life
Burn These Ships
We'll burn these ships...and we ain't going back! La la la la la la la la. Inspired by the story of Cortez, a band called Bethesda once wrote these lyrics. The story goes that once he landed in Veracruz, Cortez ordered that the ships be set ablaze in order to prevent retreat. It forced he and his … Continue reading Burn These Ships
Wading in the Deep 