If Heather had the time to read what we have been discussing for months here in her community, she might not be gobsmacked. The source of the Republicans' behavior and ideology is racism (whites first), sexism (males first), genderism (boy-girl only, anti-LGBT+), and the preservation of the old society which places whites, males, and he…
If Heather had the time to read what we have been discussing for months here in her community, she might not be gobsmacked. The source of the Republicans' behavior and ideology is racism (whites first), sexism (males first), genderism (boy-girl only, anti-LGBT+), and the preservation of the old society which places whites, males, and heteros first. Hence opposition to genderfree Potato Head. Hence voter suppression of non-Republicans and non-whites. etc etc etc etc
You can break any of the Republicans' actions and attitudes down using this template.
The Big Lie is wishful thinking that Trump and his Old World Society are still exercising hegemony like they have since the beginnings of the USA. Trump losing the election means accepting that white, male-first, boy-girl society has lost control and is no longer in power. They are in denial that they have lost the battle to diversity, to a society where whites (and males and straights) do not set the rules and don't come first anymore.
Personal news:
I am having a heavy-duty month. My dad is getting close to passing, and it means the end of an era. We are engaging what I am calling a transition-to-afterlife support team. They call themselves death and dying doulas. I have been feeling like my truck driving career is ending, which is a possibility when he goes. We have been speaking with an estate attorney, and with sisters and godchildren, about wills and trusts and inheritance and the like. My wife and I are speaking with the people who are closest to us, the ones who would be in our will and who share a bond with us.
The passing of the patriarch and self-designated head-of-household is churning the waters a bit. I am realizing even more vividly just what a poor match I am for the paternal side of this family. I'm just not a conservative, and not a Republican, and not interested in carrying on the values left over from Nazi Germany. Sorry.
In the mean time, despite all this intensity, my story project continues to gain steam. I have never felt so good about myself, ever. Multiple major break-throughs this month alone. My book has edges now, it has a beginning and an ending. I have a chapter outline. My wife is in love with the story, and so am I, I've never done anything this exciting.
Roland make sure you take care of yourself and the love of your life. In my experience, grief doesn’t have a timeline or an objective. It simply overwhelms and consumes. Your bravery to be vulnerable and share what you are navigating is commendable. The last paragraph of your post has changed my morning. It lifts, it inspires, it brings hope - TO ME. Thank you. Keep at it and how will we all see the results of your story project?
Thank you for the well wishes. I'm pleased that my words improved your morning. Yes, I have never been happier. I have found my calling. My calling is producing a story about my vision of the world and how it works, a vision of a bright and inspiring new society. It is a work of joy. I am living life now with an underlying foundation of joy. Sure, there are still dips and bumps, but there is a steady-state hum of joy. My story communicates that vision of the future, and that joy.
This news about your story project is very exciting, Roland. Thanks for sharing it with us. Will you keep us updated as the project progresses? Please!
It's at least a year or two away from completion. I wouldn't dream of keeping it a secret from my HCR community, no worries there. I am at the 1-year anniversary of the science-fiction story. Prior to 2020 I had never written any fiction, it was all nonfiction, my "Life: A Field Manual" book. My wife prevailed on me to write a story, and that story apeared in April 2020. Life: A Field Manual is now an item in a fictional tale with fictional characters. I can't give away my secrets just yet, but I will say that when Life: A Field Manual shows up in the book (and in the movie script), it's a hot scene.
Roland, dear Roland: we have all missed you but also our hearts are full for you and your situation. I know how hard it is to deal with this situation and all I can say is take care: of yourself, your loved ones, of whatever centers you. It is wonderful that you are able to channel your energies into a creative project. Do what you have to do, what your psyche and your soul say you need to do. And know we are with you too.
Roland, you've been missed, and your news of what has kept you away is very sad on the one hand, and uplifting on another. I'm sorry you are having to go through the dying/death of your father....a man who has clearly had a big impact on your life. But, it seems there is a bright side to your life...a book that is taking exciting shape, and a wife who loves it and you. Bless you, Roland.
Roland. I don't believe there are accidents in the universe. People are in our lives for a reason. Your father was a teacher (for you....in a difficult way ...but he got your attention!) and a catalyst for you to search, think and asses information and feelings probably from a very young age. That has made you the Roland that we know and value so much here. You are turning a page in the book of life. And moving forward to a new chapter IN YOUR OWN LIFE, the chapter that you writing now.....EVEN as you write your book! The BIG Dream! May God's blessings and all good things accompany you on your journey.
Very very sweet and kind of you br. Thank you. Yes of course you are correct. I have never known a minute without the domineering influence of the old order, conservative, leftover Nazi Germany converted into Republican values in my life. But that may change soon.
As I’ve read Heather’s daily letters and our community responses, your absence was noted. It’s good to hear from you but I’m sorry to hear the reason for your absence. I’m wishing your father, your family, and you peace as you go though this process. 💐.
It’s the strength you’re receiving from your work and family that will get you through.❣️
Roland, you are riding the wave of cultural, personal and cosmic change. Everything is changing and I know you can feel it. You are an instrument and an instigator here. Thank you for your role and I send you good juju to stay your course and be that change.
I have a nurse midwife friend who later in her career became a death and dying doula/midwife. She said it involves many of the same skills and sensitivities. She ffelt it was a gift to be abke to serve families during the passing.
When my son was about to be removed from life support, a nurse from the organ donor society asked in the most loving, kind and supportive way, if we would allow my son's body to be used in that way. Our answer of course was yes. It gives me great peace that 'parts' of him are still living on in someone else. I received a call early the next morning from a surgeon who had just harvested my son's corneas, which he told me would go to 2 people, one for each and that both persons would now be able to see. My point with this is that there are very special people out there, who make death and dying and what comes next easier than it might otherwise be. To this day, I honor those people who guided me to give all that I had to offer.
❤ Oh, how heartbreaking. I can't imagine that kind of loss and pain. How good that those very special people were there for you, and were so caring and supportive, and that parts of your son live on. Thank you, for your choice and for letting us know that that kind of compassion is there for us. It really helps to know that. Hugs.
He simply moved onto the next place because his work here was completed. No worries. We always 'knew' he would go before us. We loved him every minute of every day. He's let us know he's fine. Thank you Mary Pat Hugs backatcha!
My neighbor is a hospice nurse. She truly loves her job and uses different methods to help the person go onto their journey. Plus, she provides tender moments to those left behind. I want someone like her to be with me and our my family. Special people...
Helping a parent transition from this life to beyond is one of the things in life that can define us and who we are able to become going on. Your experience mirrors mine in that while my Mom was dying, I was having some of the most fulfilling professional experiences and personal growth independent of the component of her transitioning. Both experiences can be held together, and in retrospect, may augment one another.
I am looking forward to reading your book, and to having you rejoin us here in LFAA land again. May you walk the next few steps with love, grace, and knowing that you've a support network all around you.
You're so kind, thank you. And yes, it's a very exciting time in my life. It's a turning point. Shifting my story project, the book-and-movie, into higher gear.
Such joy, such sorrow. They often come hand in hand. As you attend to your father while his life’s chapter closes, knowing that your own new chapter begins, grieve, rejoice, it’s all love. Holding you in the Light.
We are all eagerly awaiting a chance to read your book! One of the things I treasure about this forum/community is the chance to learn about books to read on so many subjects and in so many genres. A heightened time for you, our friend! Take care and know that our thoughts are with you.
Roland, it is clear that you are a born storyteller. I'm guessing that you've tried to smooth your father's rough edges with your reasonable, logical philosophy, but his very traumatic beginnings were instructing him at a core level, and that is what won. Nevertheless, the fact that you've maintained any relationship is something you should be proud of. You are strong enough to voice your concerns and conflicts, and you're healthier because of that. I'm sure you have helped him on many levels, and would venture to guess that he is grateful. You are fortunate to understand what makes you happy and pursue that. Good luck with your story project.
Roland, I am so sorry to hear about your dad but I am also glad that you and your wife are being strong especially in your support for each other. Losing a parent...even when it is expected...is never easy. And, when there are some serious differences between parent and child, it is even harder as the struggle between family love and serious disagreements can lead to some soul searching and guilt. My mom could be a real "pain in the ass" at times, (nothing as serious as you have described) and my husband had more of a problem with her antics than I did. But when she died, my husband did a eulogy at her funeral and struggled with some of the negative feelings he had had for such a long time. But now he often tells me "you know, I really loved your mom". Blessings and strength to you and your family.
Congratulations Roland, and sympathies also. Your ending upbeat presages exciting things. Your dad’s imminent demise, turmoil for your family. I am delighted that you sound so hopeful. May your navigation of the oncoming events be fruitful. Be safe, be happy.
Thank you David. Personally I think the book is the hottest thing on the planet. I am being patient, because it is a large work, and I want to get it right.
Roland, Your post brought so many thoughts - major life shifts cause so much chaos in us, even the good ones. If the pandemic weren't bad enough, facing your dad's coming departure and all that entails - I can't imagine the stress. It's obvious from the comments that you are wished well by this community, and I add my sentiments to theirs.
We do such a lousy job in this country of dealing with death. Well, we don't deal with it, in fact. We try to pretend it's not part of life, not inevitable. Good on you for getting the dying doulas in. I didn't have that for my husband, but we did have a local hospice who served a similar role and were very attentive and kept us in the loop.
Blessings to you and your family. And good luck with that book! Keep us posted.
Absolutely, br. And thank you; I'm sure he does - he sent me a message in a dream last week- and no, I'm not delusional! I knew when I woke up from the dream that it was 'different', so I wrote it down. The more I pondered it, the more I could see what it was about and for -
I absolutely know you are not delusional. Our love never dies. It's the only thing we take with us when we leave this place and go onto the next. I believe it's the only thing we can offer to God......if we have loved. I'm glad you understand your dream. Its said that the dreams we remember clearly are meant to tell us something. Be safe. Be well.
If Heather had the time to read what we have been discussing for months here in her community, she might not be gobsmacked. The source of the Republicans' behavior and ideology is racism (whites first), sexism (males first), genderism (boy-girl only, anti-LGBT+), and the preservation of the old society which places whites, males, and heteros first. Hence opposition to genderfree Potato Head. Hence voter suppression of non-Republicans and non-whites. etc etc etc etc
You can break any of the Republicans' actions and attitudes down using this template.
The Big Lie is wishful thinking that Trump and his Old World Society are still exercising hegemony like they have since the beginnings of the USA. Trump losing the election means accepting that white, male-first, boy-girl society has lost control and is no longer in power. They are in denial that they have lost the battle to diversity, to a society where whites (and males and straights) do not set the rules and don't come first anymore.
Personal news:
I am having a heavy-duty month. My dad is getting close to passing, and it means the end of an era. We are engaging what I am calling a transition-to-afterlife support team. They call themselves death and dying doulas. I have been feeling like my truck driving career is ending, which is a possibility when he goes. We have been speaking with an estate attorney, and with sisters and godchildren, about wills and trusts and inheritance and the like. My wife and I are speaking with the people who are closest to us, the ones who would be in our will and who share a bond with us.
The passing of the patriarch and self-designated head-of-household is churning the waters a bit. I am realizing even more vividly just what a poor match I am for the paternal side of this family. I'm just not a conservative, and not a Republican, and not interested in carrying on the values left over from Nazi Germany. Sorry.
In the mean time, despite all this intensity, my story project continues to gain steam. I have never felt so good about myself, ever. Multiple major break-throughs this month alone. My book has edges now, it has a beginning and an ending. I have a chapter outline. My wife is in love with the story, and so am I, I've never done anything this exciting.
Roland make sure you take care of yourself and the love of your life. In my experience, grief doesn’t have a timeline or an objective. It simply overwhelms and consumes. Your bravery to be vulnerable and share what you are navigating is commendable. The last paragraph of your post has changed my morning. It lifts, it inspires, it brings hope - TO ME. Thank you. Keep at it and how will we all see the results of your story project?
Thank you for the well wishes. I'm pleased that my words improved your morning. Yes, I have never been happier. I have found my calling. My calling is producing a story about my vision of the world and how it works, a vision of a bright and inspiring new society. It is a work of joy. I am living life now with an underlying foundation of joy. Sure, there are still dips and bumps, but there is a steady-state hum of joy. My story communicates that vision of the future, and that joy.
Ir seems that your father raised his son well.
I think my mother might be more proud.
God bless your mama bear! She done good!
Will-he or nill-he (in the sense of whether the result he intended was the one he got).
Well said!
Please let us know when it's ready to be shared, Roland. We all need to hear about joyful visions of the future.
This news about your story project is very exciting, Roland. Thanks for sharing it with us. Will you keep us updated as the project progresses? Please!
OK I’ll see what I can do. If you click on my name and subscribe to “Life: A Field Manual“ you’ll see all the updates by email.
Will do. Thanks!
I'm excited to read it!! Even if I have to wait a year or more!
I want to live in that world. And will.
It's at least a year or two away from completion. I wouldn't dream of keeping it a secret from my HCR community, no worries there. I am at the 1-year anniversary of the science-fiction story. Prior to 2020 I had never written any fiction, it was all nonfiction, my "Life: A Field Manual" book. My wife prevailed on me to write a story, and that story apeared in April 2020. Life: A Field Manual is now an item in a fictional tale with fictional characters. I can't give away my secrets just yet, but I will say that when Life: A Field Manual shows up in the book (and in the movie script), it's a hot scene.
Roland, dear Roland: we have all missed you but also our hearts are full for you and your situation. I know how hard it is to deal with this situation and all I can say is take care: of yourself, your loved ones, of whatever centers you. It is wonderful that you are able to channel your energies into a creative project. Do what you have to do, what your psyche and your soul say you need to do. And know we are with you too.
You're incredibly sweet Linda, thank you.
Roland, you've been missed, and your news of what has kept you away is very sad on the one hand, and uplifting on another. I'm sorry you are having to go through the dying/death of your father....a man who has clearly had a big impact on your life. But, it seems there is a bright side to your life...a book that is taking exciting shape, and a wife who loves it and you. Bless you, Roland.
I am so blessed and fortunate, you have no idea. It's a time of change. A time of transformation.
Metamorphosis, even. Holding you in my heart.
That is exactly the word. Roland has it right in front of him now, but we all are living through a metamorphosis. https://media.awakeningtowholeness.net/walking-backwards-into-the-future/
Couldn't agree more with your post and information you provided. Metamorphosis! Thanks so much Charlie
🙏❤️❤️
Roland. I don't believe there are accidents in the universe. People are in our lives for a reason. Your father was a teacher (for you....in a difficult way ...but he got your attention!) and a catalyst for you to search, think and asses information and feelings probably from a very young age. That has made you the Roland that we know and value so much here. You are turning a page in the book of life. And moving forward to a new chapter IN YOUR OWN LIFE, the chapter that you writing now.....EVEN as you write your book! The BIG Dream! May God's blessings and all good things accompany you on your journey.
Very very sweet and kind of you br. Thank you. Yes of course you are correct. I have never known a minute without the domineering influence of the old order, conservative, leftover Nazi Germany converted into Republican values in my life. But that may change soon.
Allow me to add my prayers for you and for that change. It is a change that is desperately needed in ourselves, communities, nations and the world.
How many ❤️s can I give to that sentiment???
Amen!
As I’ve read Heather’s daily letters and our community responses, your absence was noted. It’s good to hear from you but I’m sorry to hear the reason for your absence. I’m wishing your father, your family, and you peace as you go though this process. 💐.
It’s the strength you’re receiving from your work and family that will get you through.❣️
“THE untold want by life and land ne'er granted,
Now voyager sail thou forth to seek and find.” Whitman
Both you and your dad are on a journey. May you both find a safe harbour. 🥰
Roland, you are riding the wave of cultural, personal and cosmic change. Everything is changing and I know you can feel it. You are an instrument and an instigator here. Thank you for your role and I send you good juju to stay your course and be that change.
I have a nurse midwife friend who later in her career became a death and dying doula/midwife. She said it involves many of the same skills and sensitivities. She ffelt it was a gift to be abke to serve families during the passing.
When my son was about to be removed from life support, a nurse from the organ donor society asked in the most loving, kind and supportive way, if we would allow my son's body to be used in that way. Our answer of course was yes. It gives me great peace that 'parts' of him are still living on in someone else. I received a call early the next morning from a surgeon who had just harvested my son's corneas, which he told me would go to 2 people, one for each and that both persons would now be able to see. My point with this is that there are very special people out there, who make death and dying and what comes next easier than it might otherwise be. To this day, I honor those people who guided me to give all that I had to offer.
❤ Oh, how heartbreaking. I can't imagine that kind of loss and pain. How good that those very special people were there for you, and were so caring and supportive, and that parts of your son live on. Thank you, for your choice and for letting us know that that kind of compassion is there for us. It really helps to know that. Hugs.
He simply moved onto the next place because his work here was completed. No worries. We always 'knew' he would go before us. We loved him every minute of every day. He's let us know he's fine. Thank you Mary Pat Hugs backatcha!
It is certainly a loving way to continue his existence while saving others lives. I commend you and your wife/partner.
My neighbor is a hospice nurse. She truly loves her job and uses different methods to help the person go onto their journey. Plus, she provides tender moments to those left behind. I want someone like her to be with me and our my family. Special people...
Helping a parent transition from this life to beyond is one of the things in life that can define us and who we are able to become going on. Your experience mirrors mine in that while my Mom was dying, I was having some of the most fulfilling professional experiences and personal growth independent of the component of her transitioning. Both experiences can be held together, and in retrospect, may augment one another.
I am looking forward to reading your book, and to having you rejoin us here in LFAA land again. May you walk the next few steps with love, grace, and knowing that you've a support network all around you.
You're so kind, thank you. And yes, it's a very exciting time in my life. It's a turning point. Shifting my story project, the book-and-movie, into higher gear.
Such joy, such sorrow. They often come hand in hand. As you attend to your father while his life’s chapter closes, knowing that your own new chapter begins, grieve, rejoice, it’s all love. Holding you in the Light.
🙏🙏🌺💕
We are all eagerly awaiting a chance to read your book! One of the things I treasure about this forum/community is the chance to learn about books to read on so many subjects and in so many genres. A heightened time for you, our friend! Take care and know that our thoughts are with you.
Roland, it is clear that you are a born storyteller. I'm guessing that you've tried to smooth your father's rough edges with your reasonable, logical philosophy, but his very traumatic beginnings were instructing him at a core level, and that is what won. Nevertheless, the fact that you've maintained any relationship is something you should be proud of. You are strong enough to voice your concerns and conflicts, and you're healthier because of that. I'm sure you have helped him on many levels, and would venture to guess that he is grateful. You are fortunate to understand what makes you happy and pursue that. Good luck with your story project.
Roland, I am so sorry to hear about your dad but I am also glad that you and your wife are being strong especially in your support for each other. Losing a parent...even when it is expected...is never easy. And, when there are some serious differences between parent and child, it is even harder as the struggle between family love and serious disagreements can lead to some soul searching and guilt. My mom could be a real "pain in the ass" at times, (nothing as serious as you have described) and my husband had more of a problem with her antics than I did. But when she died, my husband did a eulogy at her funeral and struggled with some of the negative feelings he had had for such a long time. But now he often tells me "you know, I really loved your mom". Blessings and strength to you and your family.
Congratulations Roland, and sympathies also. Your ending upbeat presages exciting things. Your dad’s imminent demise, turmoil for your family. I am delighted that you sound so hopeful. May your navigation of the oncoming events be fruitful. Be safe, be happy.
Can’t wait for the release of your book.
Thank you David. Personally I think the book is the hottest thing on the planet. I am being patient, because it is a large work, and I want to get it right.
I am sorry about your father, Roland.
Thank you Ian.
Comfort to you and your family as your dad passes, Roland. What is your book about?
Click on my name. I have left out recent developments because I am keeping them under wraps.
Roland, Your post brought so many thoughts - major life shifts cause so much chaos in us, even the good ones. If the pandemic weren't bad enough, facing your dad's coming departure and all that entails - I can't imagine the stress. It's obvious from the comments that you are wished well by this community, and I add my sentiments to theirs.
We do such a lousy job in this country of dealing with death. Well, we don't deal with it, in fact. We try to pretend it's not part of life, not inevitable. Good on you for getting the dying doulas in. I didn't have that for my husband, but we did have a local hospice who served a similar role and were very attentive and kept us in the loop.
Blessings to you and your family. And good luck with that book! Keep us posted.
Glad you mentioned 'dying doulas'. We need to face death as part of living. God bless your husband and you. Im sure he watches from heaven.
Absolutely, br. And thank you; I'm sure he does - he sent me a message in a dream last week- and no, I'm not delusional! I knew when I woke up from the dream that it was 'different', so I wrote it down. The more I pondered it, the more I could see what it was about and for -
I absolutely know you are not delusional. Our love never dies. It's the only thing we take with us when we leave this place and go onto the next. I believe it's the only thing we can offer to God......if we have loved. I'm glad you understand your dream. Its said that the dreams we remember clearly are meant to tell us something. Be safe. Be well.