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Solitary
I am learning each day that I walk alone and I am getting more used to it. But I also know that there is a deep part of me that yearns for companionship. In the midst of the pandemic, I found myself longing to meet a fellow traveler. It seemed an odd time to have that wish, but this is when the longing surfaced. A solitary person I am not. People captivate me and I enjoy the company of all kinds. When I am outside, I enjoy nature and animals that inhabit the area of Asbury Park. The Great Blue Heron always draws my attention. And she is always alone.…
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Individuation
Jungian analyst Anthony Stevens writes in Private Myths: “Individuation is the process, simple or complex as the case may be, by which every living organism becomes what it was destined to become from the beginning. The purpose of this individuation process is to increase the individual’s consciousness. In the first half of life, we make our way through the world, doing our best to develop healthy egos. The first portion of life is mainly external as we seek to meet our basic needs. “From Jung’s outlook, the second part of life can represent a turning inward toward a deeper part of ourselves.This inward turn starts the individuation process.” I find myself…
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Random Thoughts
I know I say I am doing well and In comparison to most that is true But there are thoughts ringing in my head that never Were there before. Thoughts of suffering and change around the world. In Bangladesh cancelled clothing orders have snatched meals from women and families. Elderly musicians in Louisiana and North Carolina keep singing and playing without any income. Even with a modest income I am privileged. I try to divide up my pie to help the hungry here and far away, but it is never enough. I don’t sulk, but reflect on what it is to live alone. I thought I was fine with this…
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A New Purpose
When I first began writing this blog, I was in the midst of grief. Both of my parents had died a few months apart and it had naturally thrown me into a difficult period of mourning and missing their physical presence in my life. Eventually I was able to enjoy the memory of their wonderful teaching and embrace the gift of having such good and loving parents who provided for all of us in a tender and generous way. Now in this move I am experiencing loss. It is different than grief, but perhaps it is a cousin of grief. It does not compare to the loss experienced by someone…
