Wednesday, April 27, 2011

SOME THINGS TAKE AWHILE

In the late 1980's I read an article describing conversations that once took place around the kitchen table. The article talked about the benefits of being able to talk about the many challenges of life in pleasant, informal atmosphere with people we trusted. It went on to say that lifestyles had changed and  the kitchen counseling sessions were not as prevelant as they had been. Unfortunately society had yet to find anything to fill the gap.

I clipped the article and attached it to my refrigerator with Scotch tape where it would stay for more than six years and three moves. My husband died in 1991 and I moved from Ponca City back to Commerce, the small town in NE Oklahoma  that I called home.

I wrote my first Table Talk for the Miami News Record in the late 90's. After I retired I wrote sporadically until 2007, when Krista Duhon gave me the opportunity to once again write for the NR, and her successor, Shelly Schultz, expanded my opportunity for exposure.

With that opportunitity came the fostering of many friendships with people throughout the tri state area. When my son was diagnosed with cancer a little over a year ago, I wasn't able to maintain the upbeat image that I wanted for Table Talk, and when I felt once again able to do so, the opportunitity with the NR was no longer available so I decided to blog.

For my old friends who have been supportive of my efforts in the past,  thank you for letting me know how much you missed me. To those of you who are reading my stuff for the first time, welcome. Pull up a chair, fix your favorite beverage and let's talk awhile.

Tell me, do you think the rain will hurt the rhubarb? I don't know about you but I am ready for some sunshine. My cat, Snuggles, just sits and looks out through the sliding glass doors in the kitchen with a dusgusted look on her face. Ever once in a while she looks at me as though she expects me to do something about the weather. One of life's most important lessons: some things we just cannot control. Can be very frustrating at times. Learning to deal with frustration in an acceptable manner is definately an asset. Physical activity such as taking a short walk or just moving about the room  usually works but what if you are in a situation where for some reason your movement is restricted.? Try closing your eyes for a few seconds and taking a few deep breaths.

What are some of the ways you deal with frustration? I look forward to hearing from you.

Until next time ,
I bid you peace

1 comment:

  1. Carol,
    I think you're right that physical activity is the best remedy for frustration. At the risk of tarnishing my masculine image, I tend to clean when I'm frustrated.

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