It’s been a long time since I’ve had to process the kind of emotional loss I’m dealing with at the moment.
If I were a full-time writer, I think I would be entirely adrift. All my stories seem to have dried up under a knot of pain. I can’t think straight about publishing or marketing or anything, really, related to writing.
Sometimes I even forget that I have a completed manuscript out there that needs my attention. (Third book? I say in confusion when a friend asks. Then I remember, Oh, yeah, I did write a third book…) Deep down, I know we will get Daughter of Aithne out sometime in the not-so-distant future. But when or where or how is all a nebulous cloud right now. I have something much more important to attend to at the moment.
Fortunately for me, I’m not a full-time writer. Fall semester is starting at Avila University, and I’m very grateful to have a job that I enjoy and that demands my exclusive attention through so many hours of the day. I’m grateful for my friends and colleagues, and the very supportive and dynamic work environment that they create. I’m grateful for the 140 or so students who are depending on me to get my act together by the start of classes next Wednesday. I’m especially grateful to have courses that I’m deeply excited about teaching, namely Animal Behavior and Introduction to Ecology and Evolution.
Work cannot fill every hole in my heart or heal emotional pain, but it provides me with an anchor, a safe place where I can lean on the scaffold while friends and family help me sort through the rubble within. In this way, I feel blessed even when confronting times of loss and painful transition.
How about you? Where do you find comfort when you’re feeling down?
Karin Rita Gastreich 
For me, it’s in nature. It nourishes me in a way nothing else can. It’s the way I access the divine. I also find that throwing myself into spiritual studies helps me remember that my human, earthly life is but one facet of my existence. Finally, a colorful notebook and a flowing pen are some of the best medicine. I process better on paper. So many times I’ve looked back at journal entries and found the answer I needed staring me in the face. Be well, my friend. xo
LikeLiked by 2 people
Seems we’re kindred spirits, Marg. (But you already knew that, didn’t you?) KCMO has been a little steamy weather-wise the past few days, so I haven’t been very inspired to get out and wander the trails. I’m sure once fall settles in a bit more, I’ll be visiting my usual nature haunts. I’ve also been journaling a lot lately, and that’s been very helpful. Thanks so much for your support and encouraging words. Many hugs to you.
LikeLike
My dark days fuel my writing. Thank goodness, as I do write full time. Use your pain in whatever way works. Just don’t let it use you. Much love.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Terri. I’m sure my writing will pick up again soon, but it’s just not where my heart is at the moment. All my creative energy is going into preparing for classes this week. I am looking forward to meeting my students. 🙂 Hugs.
LikeLike
“Nada te turbe, nada te espante,
todo se pasa Dios no se muda
la paciencia todo lo alcanza
quien a Dios tiene nada le falta
Sólo Dios basta!”
Santa Teresa de Avila
LikeLiked by 1 person
Gracias, Monica! Sabes que Sta Teresa es la patrona de la Universidad donde trabajo ahora? Vi tu mensaje en FB y te voy a contestar este fin de semana. Abrazos!!
LikeLike
Me lo imaginé “Avila Institute”
LikeLiked by 1 person