I have a refrigerator magnet that says: “Friendship is when people know all about you but like you anyway.” I think I’m never reticent about sharing information about myself, my family, my dogs – anything. I’m not very good at keeping things to myself. So, of course, people will know all about me, but I’m never sure if they like me, anyway.
If you will forgive my bragging, I’m going to do it. Stories and bragging about my family, that is. You’ve heard about my family, before, of course. Daughters #1 and 3, Son-in-Law, two Grands, a mother, and a sister. We were five sisters, three older than I and Sister Clara, younger – all of us Colorado Natives.
One of the definitions of epiphany is an unusually sudden manifestation or perception of the essential nature or meaning of something. It is an intuitive grasp of reality through something (such as an event) usually simple and striking; or, an illuminating discovery, realization, or disclosure.
I had one of those about a month and a half ago, about midnight. My CPA says it was February 3, 2023 (more on that later). Sitting at my computer which was on the card table that I’ve been using as a work desk for months (in my TV room), I was working on my BLOG for the next Wednesday. I actually think I felt a feeling wash over the area, including me. “This is what you need to be doing,” it seemed to say. “You want to write. And, write. And, write. So, write!”
Some important people in my life: Hazel Tatman Bundy (my mother); beloved Larry; Henry Fukuhara, Marie Siano Ungemah, Pomona Hallenbeck, Judith Cassell Mamet (all four art mentors); writing coach Denise Vega; John McCain; and Jimmy Carter. All of these people – some living, some gone from our earth – are only some of the people who have had a positive impact on my life. Former President Jimmy Carter is one of my most favorite people. A true statesman. President of our country in some of the most difficult times, he then gave of his time to provide homes for those in need. Giving of sweat equity in the building of those homes.
“Although, I never had the pleasure of meeting him, his images from the television set will remain with me. His good works are evident in so many towns and with so many people. As usual, when a person reaches the level of renown that he did, there are quotable quotes collected by someone to remind us of the thinking that came from the person.
Rachel Maddow discussed “The Carter Challenge” on a recent program. It is said to be: “Do something nice for somebody who needs it … If you have someone who needs a phone call, make the phone call. If somebody needs a visit, do make that visit.” This “mandate” could work for the whole world, if we would make it a habit.
The web provided several other quotes, which I’ve placed below. I’m wondering if we can see ourselves in any of them.
“We become not a melting pot but a beautiful mosaic. Different people, different beliefs, different yearnings, different hopes, different dreams.”
“You can do what you have to do, and sometimes you can do it even better than you think you can.”
“I’ll never tell a lie. I’ll never make a misleading statement. I’ll never betray the confidence that any of you had in me. And I’ll never avoid a controversial issue.”
“Like music and art, love of nature is a common language that can transcend political or social boundaries.”
“Wherever life takes us, there are always moments of wonder.”
“The bond of our common humanity is stronger than our fears and prejudices.”
“To be true to ourselves, we must be true to others.”
“War may be a necessary, but no matter how necessary, it is always evil; never a good. We will not learn to live together in peace by killing each other’s children.”
“We must adjust to changing times and still hold to unchanging principles.”
“In this great country of ours, it is inexcusable that so many children grow up in poverty and despair. The well being of our children must be the national priority and the responsibility of every individual.”
“Testing oneself is best when done alone.”
“It is good to realize that if love and peace can prevail on earth, and if we can teach our children to honor nature’s gifts, the joys and beauties of the outdoors will be here forever.”
Former President Carter said much, much more that is quotable. If you are interested in what this great man said, check it out on the web.
Be Safe and Be Well.
The Cranky Crone
Thoughtful comments are appreciated.
This has been a week of absolute fun! First, I’ve had a whole week with three dogs – Paisley, Katie, and, of course, Lady. Paisley had to go home, last Tuesday. The rest of this glorious week has been spent getting ready for the Denver Gem and Mineral Guild Vendor and Volunteer Annual Dinner. Actually, it has taken about a month to get everything ready. Time was when it took a week, but now that I’m old, it takes longer. Rita M. helped a lot with getting the decorations ready for a smooth set up. Nancy W. went with me to the venue to decorate for the dinner.