How have I changed?

[Jean-Paul Richard]

When someone asked me how my life had changed since I have been alone, I thought hard and long. What am I now doing that I was not doing before- and more important, what does that say about me? Oh, I still cook my meals, haven’t resorted to frozen meals, except occasionally; I have not become a slob, since the house stays relatively clean and organized. Oh, but I don’t make up my bed every morning anymore! But I do read French books now as well as English ones; I participate in more outdoor activities, such as hiking, kayaking and biking; I have slowly begun writing, if only to resume my blog, and that took me a year to get started again. I guess I am basically an organized person who cherishes my French roots more than ever and feel more comfortable now with them. It also means I have realized how debilitating age can make a person so I’m struggling to stay healthy and fit as long as possible. There are other changes too- like talking to myself (though not arguing) and choking up at random moments of grief. Life has changed but I have simply come to emphasize different parts of my psyche. 

[Jeanette Cheezum]

It was great seeing you at the Hampton Roads Writers Conference. You laughed and seemed much more relaxed than I had seen before. Cheers to you my friend, I know you will find yourself again. Good 6.

[Angela]

This sounds calm and well rounded - healthy and warm.  You seem to be doing well.  Thanks for sharing something so personal.

[Russo Lewis]

I liked the tempo of the piece and beneath it, the character, the former , the work, the latter, another. "I am one thing...my creations are another." Nietzsche.. As I re-read this piece it came to me, beyond the art of delivery was a self psychoanalysis, (my own favorite pastime) 'and for all I know, speaking for myself, may have therapeutic value', I think it does any way, or at least a good way as well to find "new" memories. Lastly; I like this author because with his clarity of 'inner-vision' perhaps not so much self-esteem but even better, self compassion' he makes me feel better about my self.  I especially like the closing:  "I have simply come to emphasize different parts of my psyche. " Bravo!

[Teresa]

This is a hopeful piece, as it's likely we'll all find ourselves alone one day, or maybe this is a window into the future of those we leave behind.  I like that your life seems to be opening more, or at lease those "different parts" of your psyche.  I hope you have a social outlet.  Friends are so important, people to talk to, and maybe you'd enjoy a French club?  You sound really good, despite the peek-a-boo moments of grief.  Entirely natural.