I'm not really sure how many people (if any) are still reading my blog, but I will keep posting. Mostly because it is helping me. Yesterday (and this morning) I was reading my blog posts from January. WOW! It almost seems like it was another person. I didn't realize how far I have actually come. Some of the things I don't even remember. That is why I am so glad I have them to look back at. My feelings were so strong and the way I wrote them down is just amazing...such explicit descriptions of my feelings. I was really in quite a deep pit. It now makes me realize how far I have come. At times I think I have not done any better, now I know I have. My biggest suggestion to people who are suffering a loss would be to keep a journal, then look back at it. You'll see how far you have really come.
Today I am going to Chicago with Friedl and Marguerite. Friedl has a doctor's appointment there so we are leaving early, having lunch and then who knows what. A great "day trip" for us. I am happy today. My life is new. I am starting to accept it. - Jimmy
I am still reading every blog post. I love you!
ReplyDeleteHi Honey!
ReplyDeleteI'm still reading every blog post too! You have come a long way. It has been a hard road.
We both love you and pray for you everyday.
Karen
Hi Jim,
ReplyDeleteMy partner and I have a second home in Glenn. I read about Ray in the Commercial Record and then went to The Kirby House website. I've been following your blog ever since.
My partner was diagnosewd with very aggressive breast cancer six months ago. Your strength and courage have been an inspiration to me.
Thank you for sharing your journey with us and the raw emotions which have accompanied that journey.
Sue (Cincinnati/Glenn)
Hey Jimmy, Just to let you know that I am also one of those followers of your blog since I heard about Ray. I still have a difficult time believing everything that has happened. Thank you for sharing your feelings so honestly. It requires a lot of courage to reveal and accept those inner thoughts and feelings which often take such a strong hold of our lives. It is all part of the healing process as you know too well. Your friends are a witness to the tremendous growth that has taken place for you since losing Ray. Life is such a precious gift and all of us should live each day as if it were our last - for there are no guarantees. We all need to share the love we hold in our hearts for each other and remember that those special people in our lives are truly a gift from God. (So sorry to hear about Amity and Gabby as well. You know whose loving arms they are resting in now. Ray's grave-stone and mums you planted look real nice. Seeing that image of Ray in his chef's garb reminds us that "Chef Ray Riker lives forever" in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him.) Jimmy, please take time to remember that your life still has a special purpose. Sometimes, it is a challenge to discover, but watch for the signs. Often, they are right in front of us and we don't even realize it while we are busy asking "What's next?" Taking time to practice the "Art of Gratitude" (as you have stated previously in your blog) will turn your thoughts in a different direction--And remember, YOU are the master of your thoughts. The Kirby House is looking as beautiful as ever. It sounds like Ray's sister Marguerite has been a great help. Keep the faith Jimmy and affirm each day "All is Well"!!! Peace and Love your way, Chuck
ReplyDeleteHi-
ReplyDeleteI can't remember how I found out about what happened, but I was at a bar in Detroit once wearing my Saugatuck shirt and I heard the news from someone there. I have been reading your blog ever since. I've only been a guest 1 time, me and my partner of 7 years now. We had such a wonderful time meeting both of you.
I grew up in Harper Woods- went to Grosse Pointe North High School.
The love you both shared is something that makes me catch my breath. I started to read- and just couldn't stop. It makes everyone realize how every single day we have truly is a treasure.
Thank you for sharing your private thoughts.
Nick - Dearborn, MI