Pain is a single word that stands for several – ‘a new beginning.’ One of the most difficult aspects of experiencing pain is not strictly how it impacts us, but also how it unfolds on those around us. I have long said, one of my biggest frustrations of this period of unhappiness is how selfish it…

Pain is one of the staples in the life’s emotional kitchen. We all deal with it differently. We know this. But do we recognize how we deal with it ourselves? It should be dealt with. It should not be passed along like a baton. If so, it shifts from personal pain and becomes someone else’s pain.…

I’ve had a few people ask me if writing about divorce keeps me stuck. It’s a really good question. On the contrary, writing about divorce is the one place I feel in control in an out of control divorce. It is cathartic and empowering to open my heart about a topic, many fear to talk…

It’s been said there are more bad counselors than good ones.  How do you find a solid one? Do the necessary prerequisite homework – research them and ask others for referrals. Ask yourself some of the following questions? Are my spouse and I experiencing simple communication issues? If so, a good LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social…

I can’t lie.  There have been many instances throughout this four-year ordeal of a divorce where I felt I have lost valuable time. The tug of wasted moments bearing down on me. So many hours I would rather have spent generously with the ones I love. Instead of distracted, stressed or retreating. It is the…

Most people spend their time trying to connect the dots to all facets of their life. The so-called work-life balance. It’s a common complaint and many would say they never seem to accomplish it. I’m not sure who coined the phrase ‘work-life balance’ but I believe it’s the wrong focus. What individuals should be striving…

When I began attending professional writers conferences I would eagerly sit and listen to editors speak of ‘finding your voice.’ At the time, all I could think was…’What the heck does that mean?’ I’m writing my heart out. Isn’t my voice obvious? It took a while before I became seasoned enough to understand their message…

I am in my car listening to the Garth Brooks song If Tomorrow Never Comes. A tear jerker of a song but on this day one verse catches my attention. “So I made a promise to myself.” It’s funny how you can hear words over and over again yet simultaneously feel as if you are hearing them for the…

I remember sitting in my marriage counselor’s office one day. It is was one of the days I had what I refer to as a ‘shifting moment.’ It’s hard not to talk a lot during marital problems and divorce because the inability to leave a person who is this meaningful in your life overwhelms you.…

I have always been somewhat self-deprecating but not what I would call extreme.  Recently, as someone complimented me I caught myself once again, taking back their compliment. Instead of humbly replying with a ‘thank you’ I apologized about my weight gain. Something to the effect, “Ugh, I don’t look anything like myself.” This is my…

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