Facing Life's Vagaries

[Peg]

Being new to this forum, I'm not exactly sure how it works, but I'm intrigued with the idea of strangers forming a community through common interests and experiences

I had to consult my dictionary to be certain that "vagaries" is the word I wanted in the title, and finding the definition, "something unusual, erratic; whim," yes, that's exactly what I mean.

Life's unpredictability is challenging enough to one's stamina and tenacity, but when you factor in something unusual or erratic that, seemingly on a whim throws you into a whirlpool, just surviving is a major challenge to your creativity.

Six years ago, at age 52, I was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. I know that nearly everyone bears his or her own unique burden, and I'm not seeking sympathy, but living fully and joyfully is just plain hard when your body hurts and your thoughts are consumed with simply figuring out how to put one foot in front of the other. Without the stimulation and diversion of resources like CCS and other people, life would be sorry indeed, but I've learned that you have to reach out to find these, and for some people, reaching out is scary and overwhelming...so we must be not only on the receiving end, but also on the giving end. There are so many wonderful, selfless people in the world.

This is all for now. I'd like to know what some of you have done to uplift yourselves by uplifting others.

A big Texas hug to you all!

[Susan Hosken]

Hi Peg, I haven't seen you here at CCS. i am on every day and my friends here have changed my life in so many ways. I am so sorry you have Parkinson's. My daily journey is with mental illness but I live each day with more and more joy. I live to enjoy life and to share it with friends, family and people in general. I uplift others very much by emails and belonging to groups online like CCS. I also belong to a writers group and embroidery group. I try to uplift people by taking an interest. I am hoping to uplift you by my replying to your discussion. Hope to see more of you here at CCS,.
lots of love from susan in australia

[Peg]

Thanks for replying, Susan. We all find ways to cope. Isn't the human spirit beautiful! All most people want is a little validation, just to know that someone acknowledges our existence. My neighbors just dropped by. They and my husband are on opposing sides in our upcoming election for President (tomorrow!), but they keep their views polite :-). G'day!

[Susan Hosken]

Pat,
i agree the human spirit is beautiful. I hope the election goes well. Here voting is compulsory.
lots of love from susan in australia

[RobynG]

Hi Peg,

I think you will find CCS to be one of the best (if not The Best) internet communities to belong to. When I first joined, which was at the very beginning of CCS, I was struggling with a few creativity issues. Dan and all my new friends offered support, guidance and feedback whenever I needed it. For the first few months I virtually camped here drawing on their wisdom. Though I don't visit as often (always so busy) I know that if ever I'm struggling with a block or just need the warmth of friends there is always something here to inspire me.

[Peg]

WOW! Talk about inspiration! I could just sit here all day and explore the site, but then I'd never get anything done.

Just wanted to share this with you. This artist is the brother of a woman who is a caretaker for my daughter's son in Houston, TX. He is an artist originally from Uganda, and his work is just so joyful! Check out www.visualfeastdesign.com/robert to see his work

[Peg]

Yep, I understand about being busy, and I'm thinking that I must be a little demented to take on one more thing that needs my attention. When I enjoy something, and it feeds me, I get very involved--my husband says obsessed, but I call it focused. However, I've subscribed to CCS for several months and finally decided that I want to jump in with all the wonderfully creative, joyful people who take the time to share...and I'll do what I can to contribute to the flow. I meant to give this to you...hold on, and I will...because of your profile picture, I think you may have an interest in this type of art. Check this out: www.visualfeastdesign.com/robert This artist is the brother of a woman who takes care of my daughter's son after school. I think you'll be pleased.

[RobynG]

Peg, sorry I have taken so long to reply. I hopped over to the link and several of Dan's paintings speak to me. Thanks so much.

[Carol@Swallowcliffs]

Peg: We are glad you are here, sharing with us. CCS has been good for me, even, as you say, pulling me out of myself, and allowing me to voice my opinions, and show my art. This is a supportive community!

[Peg]

Thanks! What fun to be in touch with so many talented people!

[Barbara Ann Storrier]

Hi Peg ... thanks so much for the link to the art work of Dan Sekanwagi! Inspiring and uplifting, indeed :)

[Peg]

You're welcome! I so admire anyone who has such talent in their brains and fingertips and souls.

[Detta]

Hey Peg: So glad you found us. We all (I know I do a lot!) share our hopes dreams and wishes as well as our grots, depressed spots and general feelings and someone - normally a chorus is waiting to give you some love, support and a cheer when you need one. Take it easy and enjoy the gang! x Detta