LLG: [long post] Today I re-read the book “Tuesdays with Morrie” in hopes of feeling something, but instead learned the power of my own growth and how I’ve lived through many of the lessons taught in this book. I first read this book back in middle school. It was the first book that made me cry. I remember my emotions exploding. I had a different experience this time around, possibly because the author was around my age in the book.
Today marks a year since Judy’s death. I heard Judy’s voice narrating the story. Morrie had ALS. With better understanding of what ALS is like, the story became more real. Also learned a new word: aphorism.
Here’s some quotes that stood out: “Tell me something close to your heart”, “The culture we have does not make people feel good about themselves. And you have to be strong enough to say if the culture doesn’t work, don’t buy it,” [so timely with what’s going on] “The effect of silence on human relations–Why are we embarrassed by silence? What comfort do we find in all the noise?” [I embrace silence these days, but too much silence makes me put music on] “Learn to detach…detachment doesn’t mean you don’t let the experience penetrate you. On the contrary, you let it penetrate you fully. That’s how you are able to leave it.” [This one is exactly why I wanted to re-read this book. There’s a part of me that I want to release–emotionally. I need a good cry, not necessarily a sad cry, but a cry. I haven’t been able to do so for a while and I’m ready to release it.] “Devote yourself to loving others, devote yourself to your community around you, and devote yourself to creating something that gives you purpose and meaning.” [At the end of the day, I think my purpose is to create feelings of warmth –that feeling you get when you hug someone – through the interaction of words. I’ve signed up to volunteer to mentor high school students and be a listener. It gives me fuzzy feelings to be of service to others. No, it doesn’t pay, and I’m sure some of you may think my priorities are whack as I’m currently unemployed and getting a job should be priority numero uno, but my priority right now is getting my emotions balanced.]
Grateful I got to meet Judy and have her as part of my shenanigans, grateful for Morrie– I don’t know him, but I wish I did, thankful for books in my bookshelf, the ability to detach myself, and the ability to feel.
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