Christmas is a joyous time because it coincides here in the Northeast with colder and cloudier days that force indoor time and introspection. It’s a teaching time, learning to value what we have, as well as appreciating that all of us have so much in common. That, after all, is the human condition and theContinue reading “A Retrospective of Writers”
Author Archives: Susan G. Weidener
Reflections on Exceptional Moments…Joy and Despair
We spoke of what is known as “toxic positivity,” which is the idea that one must be grateful for the life they do have, no matter what, and always put on a brave face. Yet, you cannot deny the complexity of life or the reality of death, and negative feelings are not a failure but a normal part of the human condition—nor is gratitude always a solution to pain.
December’s Mysteries and Dreams
It’s December. There’s a mystery to the season. As Mary Oliver writes in her poem, “Mysteries, Yes”: “Truly, we live with mysteries too marvelous to be understood.”
A Writing Group Prompts Autumn Memories
I can go days without writing but knowing that my writing group date is approaching always inspires me to work on something new.
Writing the Vulnerable Memoir
Much has been written about the benefits of being vulnerable with our writing. Not only is it forging an intimate relationship with our readers, but it also allows for our own self-healing and self-awareness. Although it opens us to criticism and judgment, honesty and good writing go hand in hand.
Portugal and The Map of Writing
Above the sea, the sky drapes its flawless blue mantle of time immemorial, beyond the reach of memory and with unperturbed grace. The corridor of light shines and beckons, but where does it lead? Perhaps, no probably, writing offers the clue, the map to reflection and contemplation.
The Complacent Traveler
A faithful companion on my travels is a little spiral-bound notebook where I jot down my thoughts.
Writing and Self-Compassion
When a book club hosted me last week after selecting Again in a Heartbeat as their monthly read, I repeated, as I have many times over the years, that writing the book helped me forgive myself.
Summer’s Parting Gifts
When summer draws to her end, I visit upstate New York. Cornfields stretch as far as the horizon. Sunflowers gaze toward the sky. It’s a road trip with a friend who also wants a change of pace and scenery. We make the drive from Philadelphia to the Finger Lakes. As much as the beauty ofContinue reading “Summer’s Parting Gifts”
For Authors Not on a “Bestseller” List
Sometimes, it isn’t the novel turned movie on Netflix that makes the greatest impact, but the work of authors, some of whom will never be famous or receive great critical acclaim who can make a difference in the life of one person.
