16 Comments
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Thomas Balistrieri, Ed.D.'s avatar

Words rarely have significance after reading and absorbing such an amazing piece. Thank you for the images, the raw emotions and even the harsh realities of life. As Buddha teaches… We live, we grow old, we get sick and we die. I’m 74 sick in spirit, sick in body, alone in life … but that tree turning orange right outside my window….

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Deborah Brasket's avatar

Yes, that tree! Sometimes that makes all the difference. Thank you so much for coming here and sharing your thoughts. Sometimes just that makes all the difference too.

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Lisa Jensen's avatar

This is gorgeous! The whole piece read like a poem to me, and the ending made me smile at its deliciousness.

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Deborah Brasket's avatar

Thank you, Lisa! You made me smile. It means so much when readers respond like this.

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Demian Elainé Yumei's avatar

This is exquisite. Thank you ❤️

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Deborah Brasket's avatar

This warms my heart. Thank you so much.

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Lisa Rogak's avatar

Yes, no escape, ever, but also this: Things never turn out the way you think it's going to turn out as long as you possess autonomy and a sense of self.

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Deborah Brasket's avatar

A good point, Lisa! So glad to see you here.

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Titus Arrius's avatar

I find it best not to avert your eyes. Look death squarely in the face. Sometimes it gets embarrassed and runs away.

A griet piece. Thank you for making me up my game

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Deborah Brasket's avatar

I like that, Titus! Thank you for your kind words and encouragement.

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Damian Hendrickson's avatar

Thank-you Deborah. Wonderful writing. Yes, I saw the same look in my mother's eyes often during the last few months of her life, too.

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Deborah Brasket's avatar

I'm so glad you shared that about your mother, Damian. And sorry you had to experience it too. Losing parents is traumatic. But sharing those experiences with others helps. Hugs.

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Michael K. Fell's avatar

What a lovely, profound piece that has given me much to think about. Thank you. It also made me think of the great quote by Chief White Eagle (Ponca):

"Go forward with courage. When you are in doubt, be still, and wait; when doubt no longer exists for you, then go forward with courage. So long as mists envelop you, be still; be still until the sunlight pours through and dispels the mists – as it surely will. Then act with courage."

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Deborah Brasket's avatar

I'm humbled you think so, Michael. Thanks for sharing that great quote too. I'll be saving it.

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Julie Dee's avatar

I really appreciated this piece. Made me think, consider. Thank you Deborah.

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Deborah Brasket's avatar

I'm glad to hear that. Thank you for letting me know.

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