In the last month, much has transpired. One of my sixth graders tragically died. In fact, three other people I know have passed on in the last month. November is also the month of my Lola’s death anniversary. I spent my birthday almost alone, I worked all Thanksgiving weekend, and the week after, I had a near-death experience myself.
So, I’ve been in a bit of a fog.
But life continues, even life on a small island.
I joined a church – Sacred Heart in Kapalua. Besides Haleakala, it’s where I feel closest to home. The music is from the same catalog that Ann plays – a lot of contemporary Catholic songs instead of an array of sleepy hymns. I joined the singing group and am already cantoring, just like old times. The people have been so welcoming, friendly and supportive.
I joined a writing group, and early next year, we are publishing an anthology of short stories titled Dropping Anchor, stories about exploring a new place and deciding to stay for a while. Talk about fitting the mold. The story I contributed follows my decision to drop anchor in Hawai’i and letting go of some of the most important parts of my life in order to follow a dream and allow my own life to be my teacher. The book should be out early next year.
A book that will be available even sooner is my own novel. titled Among the Silenced Sacred. It’s 425 pages in print form. I had no idea it would reach over 400 pages! That’s actually longer than I wanted. Regardless, I will publish the eBook and paperback as soon as I arrive home in Seattle for Christmas. So please, pick up a copy! It’s my first novel, and I have many more ideas and writing projects I’m currently developing.
I’ve also made a rather permanent decision. I had always been averse to marking my body, but certain perspectives have changed. Before, I couldn’t imagine putting a design on my body that I’d have to live with for the rest of my life. Now that I feel like I’m about at the halfway point, that reason no longer bothers me. Also, I want to remember everything about this experience, and the icon I created captures the story of my time here, in Hawai’i and on Earth, including the awe and the heartache. If you want to see the mark and know what it represents, here’s a link.
I’ll be home for Christmas, and never before have I felt so strongly the anticipation that accompanies Advent. Two more candles and I’m home.