Mary's Heartbeats

There is nothing like an evening out with girlfriends. . . there is so much to say, so many stories to share, so much to laugh about, and real time to listen to one another. On this last day of the first decade of 2000, the morning after that evening, I am grateful and full of thanks for "my girls". Grateful for my nursing buddies of 30 years ago, who even now stay connected with me on Facebook and through our annual Christmas letters. Many miles separate us all, but we are always able to pick up conversation right where we left off; it's never hard to fill in the gaps. I'm grateful for my college girlfriend, who walked with me during my Dad's funeral days, sharing hugs, memories, and tears. I'm thankful for the girlfriends I have had through the various work settings I have been in, and especially glad that we still make an effort to get together even though we may not work in the same place now. As a child, our family moved a lot, so it seemed that I w...

In order to encourage others to forgive, I must be a person of forgiveness. I need to let go of pride that may keep me from being forgiving, especially if I feel personally wronged. Pride or arrogance enslaves me; forgiveness frees me. A forgiving attitude will make me more compassionate and caring in all of my relationships. It will make me a better nurse, a kinder friend, a more loving wife and mom. Forgiveness starts with me . . .

"To stoop, to condescend, to have mercy, to forgive, that is the highest glory of God." (Charles Kingsley, 1819-1875) Outside, in the fresh air, riding my bike up my familiar trail, I was feeling energized with the strength that was coming from my legs. Yea! I hadn't lost the gains of all my hard work even though I had indulged in a few more Christmas treats and meals than what I had planned for. My eyes were drawn to the glittering lights and blow-up decorations found in various front yards. Some of these were beginning to be taken down and packed away in boxes. At least I didn't have that chore to do. I realized that I have begun to enjoy celebrating Christmas with less, especially less stuff. Oh, don't get me wrong, I enjoy looking at Christmas things like trees, evergreen wreaths, and beautiful poinsettas, but I don't have to have all that in my home or around my house to celebrate the holiday. In fact, less stuff is more . . . . On...

It's the start of a new year, almost. And after being a hidden writer at heart, I have decided it is time to turn the page and put my thoughts, my heartbeats, out there. What do I have to lose? Yet, in doing so, I feel somewhat anxious, yet excited. Maybe I really have something to say. . . maybe someone will actually read this and find encouragement. I have had a wonderful Christmas season, actually starting with our Thanksgiving celebration. There is nothing like a family gathering, with savory food, and much laughter, and delectable conversation. This year as we planned for our first Brown Family golf tournament, we couldn't help but talk about our fallen golf hero and and inspiration. I especially had been a #1 Tiger Woods fan; from the time he had started, I became glued to the golf tournaments he played in. I was so jazzed to actually witness his play at Torrey Pines, and stand in the crowd in which there was barely breathing room, just to get a "close-up...