I look for the lightness
Holding space for the horror and wonder of it all.
Hi, readers. Today's newsletter offering is outside of my norm. Last week, while devastating and horrifying for so many of us, was a momentous and special one for my family. It sometimes felt challenging to appreciate all the wonderful things while also holding space for all the horrible things happening across the world. I wasn’t sure how to find the words to describe that — something I think we all can relate to right now. So I tried something different.
The world feels heavy Isn’t that always the case?
(Perhaps.)
In the heaviest times I look for the lightness
I look for the smiles
the laughter
the sweet, silly momentsTuesday was a baby born Sweet Magnolia, here at last
Wednesday was three friends in a living room dreaming the things they’d do with a lottery jackpot
Thursday was a meeting — instead of being canceled a chance to know each other better
Friday was time at the pumpkin patch Two energetic toddlers and two tired mamas all happy to be together
Saturday was the partial eclipse Crescent-moon shadows on the wall a reminder of wonder abound
Sunday was birthday number three — a trip to the zoo! Train ride through a dark tunnel, kids screaming
Happy screams
the best kind of screams
the luckiest kinds of screamsIf only we could all be so lucky.
p.s. Even with the brightest lights, things are incredibly heavy right now. If you’re feeling scared, angry, alone or heartbroken, I’m sending you love. I hope you treat yourself and others with kindness and patience this week. The world needs more of that.
xoxo KHG
I think sometimes people are afraid to write about good things in dark times. I think I sometimes fear folks will think I’m shallow, but there is nothing shallow about stopping for joy and letting it fill you up. Laughter and joy heal. Thanks for sharing the beauty in your week.
Beautifully expressed, Katie--the poetry, your commentary, your generosity of spirit. All good. Thanks. I needed that.