Blog with HOPe

Paula suggested that it is about time for a “Kathleen blog.” I commented that she and Amy are so great about sharing details about their everyday lives. I realized that I haven’t yet painted a picture of my life for readers. It’s not that I’m such a private person. I guess I think my life isn’t all that interesting. So, I’m pushing a boundary today and opening up just a little:

Two years ago, I lost my husband of fifteen years. I thought my life was over. I couldn’t figure out how to function without my partner. Against all sound advice to stay busy, all I did was watch TV, eat cookie dough, and drink martinis. No lie. I couldn’t find blessings to count. I didn’t socialize, didn’t go back to my teaching job, didn’t even see family members. It took two months to realize I had put a boundary in place that needed to be overcome.  

I heard about the mission of HOPe and thought it would be a nice place to volunteer once in awhile. I interviewed with Paula and, sensing my fragile state, she put me to work putting simple labels on postcards. It was a step in the right direction. Next time I stayed a little longer and then I started coming for more days in a week. Before I knew it, it was my home away from home. Every day I see our clients pushing their own boundaries; some physical, some emotional, some social.  I’m so inspired by their daily successes, I’m picking up my own pace. Not only have I made new friends within my condo community, I’m even on the social committee. Last night I volunteered to host a cocktail party for twenty. It has been a journey, but one with a fabulous destination. I’ve arrived at a new phase in my life, one where I receive more than I give. I get the meaning of the words hope and possibilities. What does the future hold for me? Simple goals for the here and now: eat right & exercise. I resolve to start chipping away at the bucket list. Some things are definite no-no’s; I already broke my leg once, I won’t be hitting the slopes anytime soon. I never rode a horse before, maybe I’ll check into a dude ranch. I really want to make a cross country trip to see Mt. Rushmore and the Grand Canyon. I’ll try to pay forward all the love and goodness that has come my way. I don’t want to be remembered for my martini recipe, but for hope and joy and love of life.

Have you pushed a boundary lately? Trust me, it beats watching TV and eating cookie dough.