15 Comments
Apr 21Liked by Teri's Doing It!

This is beautiful. I have tears. I have felt the same way letting go of teaching and all my boxes of notes and books. Who are we without the major activities that have defined us in the past? We will find out. ❤️

Expand full comment
author

Thanks, Timi! And though it hurts now, it will be glorious. We'll press on together!

Expand full comment
Apr 21Liked by Teri's Doing It!

Wowsers! Another enlightening and amazing Teri tale, right from the heart. Thanks for starting my day with such a reality check and validation.

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, my friend! Much love!

Expand full comment
Apr 21Liked by Teri's Doing It!

Touching. Thanks for sharing this. Being able to give up something so tied to your identity is courageous.

Expand full comment
author

Twarn't easy. But as you know, I'm Doing It! :)

Expand full comment
Apr 21Liked by Teri's Doing It!

When you started the story with postponing a mammoth and then walking in to get a mammogram dressing room, my heart momentarily halted. I was relieved that the story took a different turn, yet my heart was full of sorrow for your letting go of what you loved so much, for what has always even such a big part of your life. Change is difficult, change is also an opportunity for the new, for the life yet to be discovered. Onward to new adventures.

Expand full comment
author

Thanks, Alenka. Onward, indeed!!! Courage comes in many forms. From riding a bike to Mexico to giving up our identities to make room for new adventures. You inspire me to keep going!

Expand full comment
founding

Teri , you have such a way to pull me up and make me look at really important things in life. The ever present demand of life to change, metamorphosis is hard yet maybe there awaits a butterfly. When are you going to bless us with a book of your short stories? Love you!!

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, dear Patti. Hmmm... I suspect if I went back through the years I might find some material... :)

Expand full comment
founding

I would just love having your stories to reread. Sort of like I reread James Harriots books or Hemmingways novels or Stevensons poetry. Your writing never gets old.

Expand full comment
author

Thanks! Maybe I'll put them together for you. :)

Expand full comment
Apr 23Liked by Teri's Doing It!

" I had to let go of the old things, the things that defined me."

Boy has that been my journey lately! Beautifully written and very heartfelt, Teri.

Expand full comment
author

Thanks, John. For some reason, some of my favorite pieces come from a place of deep, deep sorrow. I don't express that emotion often so maybe it's just happy to be out there?

The work thing is really hard too. So many emotions tied to that stinking identity. Part of ours was intertwined for a time so I think I understand. Hang in there. The further past that gate you get, the easier it gets though I'd be lying if I told you it is a breeze. Hugs!

Expand full comment
founding

Well written Teri! I felt your sadness while reading. It's tough to let go of one of your "identities", but it sounds like you are on your way to forming a new one! We should plan a camping trip together!!!

Expand full comment