Emily Dickinson expresses the truth about grief as poignantly as any writer I know. In fact Anne Morrow Lindbergh used the line “Hour of Lead” when she wrote about the kidnapping and murder of her first child. I especially like the central section where she articulates our ability to keep going but in a pretty mechanical way when we are hit by grief.
I have been away from the blog for a while as I have been dealing with the grief that came up as our beloved dog died. While losing a valued pet is deeply sad, old submerged grief finds a way to piggy-back on a current opportunity, hoping that it will get a chance to be aired. That has happened to me. I am slowly regaining my footing and will begin to write again on a pretty regular basis. I miss the interaction and love when it is a big part of my life. Clearly I missed some of your posts. If there is something I really ought to know that happened in the last three weeks (a death, a marriage, a move, etc.) please feel free to write me directly at betsyfrompike@earthink.net and I will be sure to respond by email.
Saved By Words 
I understand your absence after the death of a beloved pet. I don’t even want to think about what happens when we lose Ollie.
Nothing to worry about on my blog, though I did start a new serial recently. That will be too much to catch up on, so ease yourself back in gently, Elizabeth.
Best wishes, Pete. x
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sending you gentle hugs……….
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🥰
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It’s so difficult to lose a beloved friend, including a furry one. I’m glad you took the time you needed away from the blog but am even happier to have you back.
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That is so kind and touches my heart.
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Always good to see you Elizabeth. So sorry for your tragic loss.
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Thanks Peter. I will be back in rare form eventually I am sure! Bad puns and all.
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I’m sorry you’ve been sidelined by grief. Thanks for sharing it with us, and I pray you will feel energized to write again. You didn’t miss anything important in my posts.
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Thanks! I am soaking up prayers from friends right now.
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Have been keeping you in prayer my friend.
Bless you,
Jennifer
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That is much appreciated.
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Hugs from me too…..
Take care
Cathy
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Hi Elizabeth, I am sorry about your lose and grief. I did read your previous post but didn’t leave a comment as I never know what to say in this situations of grief.
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No problem. I am just glad to still be in touch.
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Sad to read that you have been sidelined by grief, Elizabeth, but pleased to hear that you are beginning to re-emerge, so to speak. Take care, and be gentle to yourself
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Thanks so much. I am taking it a step at a time.
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Good
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Sending you my good thoughts and best wishes, Elizabeth. You picked a perfect poem to express the process of grief.
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Thanks Jennie.
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You’re welcome, Elizabeth.
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Difficult time for you, Elizabeth. Go gently and be kind to yourself
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Thank you. That means much.
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Pets are like additional people at our house. I understand the grief. Peace be with you.
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I am glad you understand.
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The loss of a fur baby is extremely hard hitting. I understand your grief. Virtual hugs.
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Thank you so much for understanding.
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I missed this post because I was deep in my own grief after my husband’s death. It warms my heart now.
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I think the poem really nails it and am glad it touches you now.
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