Writing and Healing Idea #15: Listing What Remains

This writing idea springs directly from the passage by Andre Dubus that I posted above. Because it occurs to me that before embracing what remains it might sometimes be helpful, simply, to list it.

You can make a list of what remains. And then you can, if you like, take this list and carry it with you. You could carry it with you through the holidays. You could carry it in a wallet—or in a purse—or in your pocket. You could, I suppose, write it in tiny print and fold it and place it in a locket. And then you would always have it there with you—like a reminder—what remains.

Comments

[Lissa Forbes]

This is a grand idea ... I think it would be helpful to your readers ... it would be helpful to me, if you primed the pump and included a sample list.

My father died in March. Now both parents are gone and as an adoptee, I feel like a little child abandoned again. Of course, my rational adult self who has worked diligently to heal the adoption issues is less than thrilled to be flailing in the quagmire of abandonment once again. But all is not in my control, much I might hope. The waves come unexpectedly. One moment feeling self-confident, sure, and stable. The next totally consumed in the heart of childhood emotions, feeling lost, alone, and uncertain.

Still hopeful,
Lissa