He said, “One life on this earth
is all we get, whether it is enough
or not enough, and the obvious conclusion
would seem to be, that at the very least
we are fools if we do not live it
as fully, and bravely, and beautifully
as we can.”
– Frederick Buechner –
This was a new one for me from author – theologian – minister, Frederick Buechner. I always appreciated his oft quoted definition of vocation – “the place where God calls you is the place where you deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.”
Sitting at my mother’s desk, having arrived yesterday from the ridiculously frigid temperatures at home to the balmy “banana belt” of Niagara with its 30+ degree difference, I’m hours late posting today’s photo and poem feature. We made a quick trip to visit my mother in hospital last night and see that while weak, tired, and thin, she is rallying, with the original prognosis of preparing for the worst, modified. Tomorrow is the MRI and ultrasound, which will help us know what next. My father is relieved for this development, happy for our presence, and my sister can step back into her life.
With hours of waiting – at home, in the air, here – I’ve had plenty of time to think…about family patterns and dynamics, history and story, roles and rules. I smile to myself thinking that undergraduate degree in family studies and social work graduate degree specializing in individuals, families, and groups have served me well. Distance, too, has long been double-edged, giving me space, clarity, and perspective, all helpful in navigating liminal terrains such as this, an eldering landscape. I found Buechner’s quote earlier this week on Facebook, one of those “right place at the right time” sightings. It fits.
Thank you for the kind and thoughtful comments here and on social media which hold and support from afar me and my family.
Much love and kindest regards, dear friends...
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A Wabi Sabi Life 
Thank you for sharing Frederick Buechner’s stunning quote on this day, particularly poignant as today is the twelfth anniversary of my mom’s passing on and passing through this world. I shall hold a warm space for you and your mother for healing, beauty and grace as you walk beside each other, one foot in front of the other. Joanne
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Thank you, Joanne. For this, and your remembering your mother I am grateful I posted today. Kindest regards…
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Gracias . I was struck by the phrases “ liminal terrains and eldering landscape “ They have moved me to some self reflection .
Sending Peace Your Way
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Thank you…to know my words might invite such reflection in another, amidst it all, is most heartening.
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Dear Friend,
Blessings on this tender journey. The gift of Buechner’s quote is exquisite, as is, of course, your always wise words. Ann
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So thankful for you and yours….much love.
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Dear Katherine , thank you so much for all your reflections, quotes and poems especially headed in to a New Year. Sending you hugs and prayers regarding your Mums illness. Hope they can keep her comfortable and provide the necessary answers . Its very difficult to witness …..
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Thank you. She is recovering…like a cat with nine lives…and the gift of being in the small local hospital, while stripped of many diagnostics, is filled with care from familiar professionals and a remarkable doctor.
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