This morning my father sent me a link to Chimamanda Adichie’s TED speech about a ’single story’. Her uplifting speech was presented in order to remind the audience that there is “never a single story about any place” or people. We are all human and all very much the same at our core. So, to stereotype or ostracize another person is really an insult to our own humanity. (Listen to the speech here for a well-spent 20 minutes)

What I get from the speech is this: No matter how cruel, unjust, oppressive, mean-spirited a person acts toward you – there is always another side to them. I could spend my time demonizing someone, even if I’m justified in my anger, but in the end I’m only telling the ’single story’ about them. There may also be something else about that person that is good that I don’t see and can’t appreciate. It is better for me to look for that grain of good rather than waste my time picking out the rotten pieces.

Yesterday was one of the worst days I’ve ever had. I felt betrayed by those closest to me and was left shocked as my worst nightmares materialized. I’m exhausted. I’m upset that my son has seen me so upset and crying. Now it’s time to get it together and see if any of what I’ve written on this blog has actually sunk into my brain and heart.

There is no ’single story’. What other people think of you is none of your business. Breathe deeply. Get busy doing something positive. Think about something else. Forgive everyone for everything. These are my mantras. Can I live by them? I’ve got to try or this will be the bitter end of my best-year-ever.

Tomorrow night at midnight (actually tonight because it’s 2am already) this blog goes offline for 30 days. I’ll be writing my novel. If I complete it, on December 1 this blog will be back and better than ever. I’ve actually got to thank all the people that have been the root of the drama in my life this past year. Because of all of you I’ll probably have no problem coming up with plot twists and memorable characters. Thanks for your help! The pen really is mightier than the sword (-;