It seems to me that this has been a hard year for many people. I’m not talking politics… though there is that. When the year began, I was facing a future I’d have never chosen willingly and was feeling pretty devastated. Soon, however, I realized that I was not the only one going through a difficult time.
Fritatta for Maureen
I’ve watched a dear friend lose her spouse of many years, saw another friend succumb to illness, and yet another friend go through chemo. You don’t have to look hard to find trouble all around. And yet…. During this time I have been buoyed by friends who have stopped by to write words of encouragement on the chalk board at my front door. Other friends have sent cards or called to check in. What I am saying is that my journey through grief has not been a solitary one.
And still, whenever I can, I bake a pie or make a dinner for someone who I think needs to be reminded that they also are not alone. Though I rarely say the word, love is what I hope to bring to these folks. And what I find amazing is that after seeing someone made happier by a gift of my food, I always find that I feel better.
An Apple Blueberry Pie for the reunion
Along those same lines, my daughter, Alexandra, is visiting this week and yesterday she read me an article by Elizabeth Gilbert that had us both in tears. Here is an excerpt:
We live in a hard world, my friends. Sometimes it’s extra difficult to be a human being. Sometimes you have a bad day. Sometimes you have a bad day that lasts for several years. You struggle and fail. You lose jobs, money, friends, faith, and love. You witness events unfolding in the news, and you become fearful and withdrawn. There are times when everything seems cloaked in darkness. You long for the light but don’t know where to find it.
But what if you are the light? What if you’re the very agent of illumination that a dark situation begs for?
When you think about the many people that you come into contact with each day, it’s easy to imagine how you can have a positive impact on someone’s life simply by being a beacon of light. No need for heroic measures here, just show up, smile, hold the door, maybe even share a hug. Be willing to share a moment of your time with someone who might need it more than you’ll ever know. Or you just might try baking someone a pie. It seems to work for me!
As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others. Audrey Hepburn
Pie a Day Give Away 
Once again you’ve “nailed it,” Karen! With your words and with your deeds you are a light. Keep brightening our paths, my dear, so we can find our way.
Thank you so much Shirley. I’ve been missing writing and finally found something to say! xxoo
Let’s all share our illluminataions! Or be the light someone else may need! Once again I thank you Karen Amarotico for sharing your wisdom and strengths much love to you my friend ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Dear Rachel, thank you so much. I never thought I was strong… more vulnerable really. And I think that might be my strength. Strange. xxoo
Karen (and Alex), you will never know how many candles you have lit for me this past year, Thank you for your love and light! JoAnn
Thank YOU JoAnn! You have helped me so much on this journey. xxoo
You are a wonderful light in our community! Thank you!
Very sweet of you to say Donna. And you are as well!
You have certainly been the light in my life many times over my dear friend! Couldn’t do this without you love.
MWAH! So glad we can travel this lifetime together!
You truly are a light and without darkness how would you (or anyone) recognize the joy of light! You are an inspiration and a dear friend to so many. I am glad to be one of them.
Thank you Mary! Let’s get together soon… I miss you!
Karen! Re-connecting with you the day of the (glorious) Women’s March was deeply moving. You inspire — ! I’m so happy that you are writing again. Sending love. M
Hi Martha… things are proceeding. I am doing the best I can and most days are good. Thanks for commenting… I look forward to another time together.
Thanks again. xxoo
Beautifully written as always Karen. I have read all of your writings over the years. Change is inevitable as we all realize and know. You are a strong wonderful woman and the pain you may feel)(in time less and less) will begin to ease and a new chapter in your life will evolve and you will find happiness once again.
Thank you Gary. I appreciate your words. I know in time I will be okay. It’s just a long journey from here to there… but I do thank you for being encouraging.
Karen, I love your writing, and your spirit, and your sweet self. I’d love to see you when I come down south if you’re in the neighborhood. Thinking of you.