Another philosophy of mine that gets me through many a difficult situation is that “If money can fix it, it isn’t a problem.” Yes, my air conditioner, furnace, stove, fridge, computer, or you name it always dies at the worst possible moment and sometimes puts me in a financial bind, but money can fix the problem, so soon it is not a problem at all. In contrast, the loss of one’s health or one’s loved one is a loss nothing can fix. I’ve lost many a loved one, but here I am, surviving every loss and setback
Wrong with my life? I could find nothing wrong. I have followed a career path that I love. I have loving siblings and relatives and a few dear close friends. I live alone and love my privacy, yet I have experienced true love. Neither of my marriages worked for long, but good things came from both, including a handsome, intelligent son who practices veterinary medicine near D.C. and is married to a woman I love as if she were my own daughter.
When I was in my twenties and a young mother, I longed to travel. I used to say that I wanted to see Venice before it sank and the Grand Canyon before it filled back in. Now I have been to both places—Venice twice and the Grand Canyon three times.
Today I have traveled the world, but I have not yet seen it all. In fact my sister and I have planned two big trips for 2016 together. In the spring we are going to take a ten-day river cruise and see the Netherlands and Belgium during tulip time. In the summer we will tour through the Canadian Rockies together for another ten days.
I find my work fascinating, as if I solve an interesting puzzle every time I tackle a manuscript, and best of all, my work helps fellow writers. I get to speak at conferences and meetings for writers, again helping them on their path.
I feel fulfilled. I smile often, even when I’m alone.
Oh, and about nine years ago I rescued a parakeet that landed on my deck starving and shivering. Today a plump and healthy Bruce Bird sings delightful tunes in my home every day. Shortly after rescuing Bruce Bird, I took in a dog that had been in the wrong home, and today he is a loving companion who adores being cuddled.
Many people have read my new Neurotica blog entries and said they love my stories, and I have dozens more to write. The encounters in the blog may not appear in the book, because the book covers relationships with more depth, but if people like my stories, they will buy the book. Yes, there is a market, and I will prove it. If no publisher wants to invest in my newest book, I will self-publish it. I am a writer, and I will not be daunted or thwarted.
Happy every day to me!