With apologies to Charles Dickens.
In many ways, 2017 was the best of times for me.
Then in the last eight months, it was the worst of times bringing terrible grief.
Now on the last day of 2017, I am looking forward with guarded optimism to 2018.
The Elephant in the Room
This morning I read the Paul Kalanithi essay “How Long Have I Got Left?” in the New York Times.
Dr. Kalanithi addresses his concerns after his diagnosis of Stage IV cancer.
I found the article comforting as he discusses some of the same feelings and questions that I have about my daughter-in-law’s Stage IV cancer diagnosis.
I am debating whether or not to send the article to my son and his wife.
Would it pour salt in the wounds by reminding my son of the struggle and death of his father to cancer?
Would it put a damper on an otherwise happy day that he and his wife are experiencing?
Would it take away even one moment from enjoying life with their baby girl?
Right Now
On the news the pundits are talking about what 2018 will bring to our country.
It’s too much to contemplate.
I feel overwhelmed with news of the country and the world.
I feel overwhelmed thinking about my son, his wife and their baby.
I decide not to send the article.
Promises
My dog Ginny alternates staring at me and the front door wondering when we are going for her daily walk.
I promise to take her soon.
Shutting down the computer, I make a few promises to myself.
To be a more loving, calmer, and thankful person in 2018.
To let go of being a superwoman and ask for help when I am overwhelmed.
To try to stay in the moment.
A big order, but for me “These are the times that try my soul”. *
*with apologies to Thomas Paine.
Lori Greer in Portland 
I am fervently hoping for a miracle in 2018 for you and your family…
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Reblogged this on crjen1958.
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Not a big order at all….
Hell, i’ll take two…
Eyes wide open.
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My heart goes out to your heart, Lori, and to your son, his wife and their daughter.
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💝
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Thank you for reading. Wishing you an exceptionally wonderful New Year. Lori
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Then may we start the New Year with a blessing Lori…may your year be held, guided and protected by the greatest power in the universe…the love that you are, and becoming, because of what you believe in your heart ❤
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https://pacificparatrooper.files.wordpress.com/2017/12/happy-new-year-animation-3.gif
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Good plans, Lori. Wishing you all the best for the coming year.
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Life can be overwhelming, and we must try to keep it all in perspective. I’m confident there are good days ahead.
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Beautifully put Lori. Stay in the moment…it’s often difficult but exactly where we all need to be in these trying times surrounding our world and personal lives. Praying for full healing for your DIL in 2018!
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There is in this life always HOPE for better. I like your comment guarded optimism. Happy 2018 May you find beauty and love even in the more difficult days. xx
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Amazing! This blog looks exactly like my old one! It’s on a completely different topic but it has pretty much the same layout and design. Great choice of colors!
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