I seriously considered just not posting today. I seriously considered jut calling out. In a sense, that’s exactly what I will be doing … although it involves words.
Since making the decision to share something daily, I’ve been going non-stop. The last time I didn’t post was Dec. 29, 2018. That’s 677 consecutive days. I didn’t want that streak to screech to a halt because I just couldn’t think of anything to write about.
Actually, that’s not a totally accurate assessment. There is plenty to write about. The problem is I am tired. I am mentally spent.
Now, I’m not looking for sympathy and I don’t think I am depressed. But I am in a rut and my daily routines aren’t bringing me any joy.
It’s not all that unusual for me to get melancholic this time of year. From mid-August around my birthday to mid-November around my wife’s birthday, I usually look inward. Typically, I can multi-task and see out as well. This year has been different.
I continue to try and share joy and optimism, to see the extraordinary in the ordinary, to let my words heal and inspire. I constantly receive messages saying that continues, but the words of encouragement for me seem more shallow and superficial. They are coming in through my eyes and ears, but they’re not taking root in my heart and soul.
That, of course, bothers me. I know I’m where I’m supposed to be at this season of my life, but over the past few months, it’s been harder and harder to pull myself up by the bootstraps. It probably has resulted in a wave of skepticism that cloud my words. What bothers me most, however, is that is not fair to you as readers and followers.
Typically, life buoys me up. The first snowfall, watching football, doing a little traveling, watching Christmas and other Hallmark movies, writing, sharing all even the road. Not so much these days. My psyche faces daily mountains and valleys.
I just wanted to share where I am with you. I know I am blessed with relatively good health and the love and affirmation of family and friends. So just bear with me. I may completely take a break or two down the road … or I may not. We’ll see. But for today, I’m taking the day off {despite actually sharing this post}.
THOUGHT TO REMEMBER: You couldn’t re-live your life, skipping the awful parts, without losing what made it worthwhile. You had to accept it as a whole — like the world, or the person you loved. — Stewart O’Nan, The Odds: A Love Story
The Light 
Hi Joe
Life is full of hills and valleys, ups and downs. We are all entitled to our emotions and feelings, and to express ourselves. It’s difficult to write when our hearts aren’t into writing. So go ahead and take a break. Take whatever time you need. I’ll still be here when you return.
Bruce
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Thanks.
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❤ ❤ – speaking for myself, only, A. you need not post everyday (unless you have made vow to yourself your integrity does not allow you to break) B. If you must and cannot find your creativity, I do not mind that you share your 'tiredness' – for myself, folks who never struggle, get tired, go silent or are, flip-side, a never ending fount of 'inspiration/motivation' and callings to 'cheer up, be happy!" to others in a 'slump' are a real bore and usually don't get much of my time – C. There is a grace to be had, me thinks, from speaking openly about the ups and downs – of Life, of our energy, our reserves, our patience, etc. Adulting folks need the reminder in these days of 'airbrushed, photoshopped, perfectly curated 'living the good life!' posts and social media – our youth need to see that Life isn't always a bed of roses and some days, one must just choose to sit in silence, rest, rejuvenate or say, "Hmmm… not sure what's going on with me, but I'm all 6's and 7's just now…" – To see, live and upfront – that everyone struggles here and there – and sometimes, one just needs the time spent internally or to recharge or to 'ponder upon Life' without an audience or pressure to 'produce/be productive' just now – But then, you know all this – just commenting to show my support of you – whether you post daily or not – and whether you are always upbeat or not! If I cannot handle you when you're down, or tired, how do I serve the gift of the best of you? IT all comes in the package of you….. 😀
Which I happen to appreciate! ❤
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Well, thank you!
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