The Soap Opera Relief

My roommate has fondly referred to my place of employment for some time now as "the soap opera."

Anyone who knows me well knows that my company has more than it's share of drama for such a small organization, and that we seem to attract all kinds of truly unique characters. Anyone who knows me well will also know that these tendencies have caused a rather high degree of stress in my life, especially over the last two years or so.

Thus, knowing those things, you'll understand why my mom totally cracked up, when, in the midst of a rather serious conversation we were having this evening, I somewhat dryly and sarcastically confessed, "Work was a welcome relief today. It was so nice to just focus on that for a bit and not think about all the other things." My mom, had the context of having phoned me at work first thing this morning, and caught me mid-way into my second meltdown of the day (within the first hour!), over things that have absolutely nothing to do with work. With that context, and her knowledge of all of the drama that my place of employment has encompassed, she found my comment particularly funny.

And it was funny to me too. For that moment we laughed together, before returning to the main conversation which once again had me in tears. The "soap opera" was a welcome relief! In fact, in some ways, that thought, and the memory of the conversation, of drawing that laughter with my tone, is still making me laugh. And tonight I definitely need the laugh!

Long Day, long weekend

Today at work was long. But, to be honest, it was kind of a nice distraction. It was nice to lose myself in what I was doing there, even the really mundane things, for a while.

I'm headed out tonight to grocery shop, and then to make a stop at my parent's place to pick up some mail and see my mom for a short treatment - one that will hopefully allow me to sleep better tonight, and feel a bit more rested and recovered tomorrow.

What does your walk say about you?

Forgive me for posting yet another quiz, but this one did make me smile.

Your Walk Says You're Approachable

You are intelligent, thoughtful, and even philosophical. You like to go unnoticed for the most part. Other people see you as humble and down to earth. You don't put on airs. You are careful, thoughtful, and detail oriented. You tend to test people's patience, but your patience pays off. You are a kid at heart. You love to have fun and believe that life is for living.

What Does Your Walk Say About You?

Saint Clare

I have a particular affinity for St. Clare of Assisi. Those of you who know me well will know that most days I wear a medallion with her image around my neck. That I often reach for it, that it speaks to me of hope and encouragement and joy.

Today is Clare's feast day, which is somehow oddly encouraging on a day when I am struggling deeply to find joy.

I followed this link, and read about her today, and was reminded of other bits and pieces I've read about her over the years. And somehow, this story, this simple young woman who lived a life devoted to Jesus, is touching my heart and giving just a little bit of hope again today.