Kate, the prolific and thoughtful blogger over at 4amwriter, graciously invited me to write a guest post this week.
My piece, Being Brave as Writers, was inspired by Kristen Forbes’ flash essay, “Brave on the Page,” which in turn lent its title to my new book, Brave on the Page: Oregon Writers on Craft and the Creative Life, which will be released on Monday. So head over there if you want to find out how many times the words “brave” and “afraid” show up in our 200-page book about writing. And be sure to read all the amazing comments her readers have left about the intersection of writing and courage.
If you want to stay up to date on Brave on the Page news, visit the new Forest Avenue Press blog. I’ll be posting links, publicity and other news over there on a regular basis.
Yesterday, my husband’s dear friend of twenty years died in a freak work accident. Hoot lived bravely and loved fully. He always had a smile for everyone, and he had a great appreciation for art and artists. So please, as you go about your day, smile at a stranger, hug your loved ones and admire the beauty in this world. There’s so much beauty if we remember to look up from our to-do lists long enough to notice.
I’m sorry to hear about your husband’s friend. I hope that while he grieves for his friend, your husband remembers all the good times they had together.
Thanks, jm. As my hubby said, now it’s time for the grieving to begin. The shock is still so much a part of the grieving, though. It still doesn’t seem real.
Oh Laura, I’m so sorry to hear about your husband’s friend. Thanks for the reminder to stop and appreciate life while it’s here. And keep up all the great work you’re doing!
Thanks, Kristen. It was such a freak thing, and it’s a definite reminder to enjoy each day and not to get too caught up in small frustrations because there’s so much more to life–and so many beautiful small things to be enjoyed. This morning I had a lady honk at me and make a mean face when SHE was the one crossing the double line illegally, trying to bypass traffic on a two-lane street, and instead of being annoyed with her misdirected anger, I felt sorry for her investing so much angst in trying to beat out two cars. Life’s too short.
So sorry to hear about your husband’s friend. I love how you suggest that we take this moment to remember all the blessings of this world. Wishing you and your husband peace.
What else can we do, right, other than share his happy spirit in such ways? Blessings is the perfect word, Kate.
I’m so sorry to hear of your family’s loss. Life is indeed too precious and short to let it pass by.
So true, August.