Writings

What’s on your bed matters.

A clean sheets ritual is an imperative part of my life upon leaving town for a few days. There is something calming, inviting and reassuring to return home and crawl into a bed of clean, yet to be slept in, crisp sheets. Stripping my bed and replacing the sheets is the first task done following morning coffee on departure day.

My experience.

Babies cry when picked up by a stranger, a mother sits near her new born ducklings, shielding them from expected predatory threats, storm sirens warn everyone to run for cover, ambulance sirens wail at drivers to pull over and stop immediately.

Why talking about hardship matters.

“Sit down. Let’s talk.”

Often, perhaps too often, I’ve been told I talk too much. Then, when I sit quietly, listening, giving others the space to talk, I’m asked, “What’s wrong? You’re not engaging. How come you’re so quiet?”

Supreme self-confidence.

“Are you in charge? Charge ahead. What do you charge? I need a charge. You’re in charge now. Can you charge for that? I thought you were in charge. I charged it. If I were in charge, this wouldn’t have happened. It’ll work, once it gets charged.”

A bag for every occasion.

I’m a fabulous bag lady. Actually, quite a joyful one. Oversized handbags, totes, clutches, assorted briefcases, carry-ons, recycling grocery and gift bags — I have no shortage of bags.