20 Comments
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Agnes's avatar

Merci pour ce partage Joyce

Je comprends mieux la matière qui fait ton dernier roman « par où entre la lumière »

Chanceuses sont tes petites filles d’avoir tout cet amour de grand-mère et je ne doute guère qu’elles sauront venir se lover dans tes bras lorsqu’elles seront en âge de « décider » car assurément, comment ne peut on pas rêver d’une grand mère comme toi ?

Je t’embrasse

Nica Waters's avatar

"I never give up hope that things will one day be different. But I don’t live in the land of yearning, either, or stake my happiness on breakthroughs that may or may not ever take place, releasing us from a form of bitterness and need for distance whose origins I never understood. I choose to celebrate the gifts and joys that surround me today, and there are many."

A beautiful reminder of the choices we can make to take control of our own reactions. Thank you for this gift of an essay that left me with an ache in my throat.

Merilyn Read's avatar

What a deep and heartfelt story you share here Joyce. My son and I have a fragile relationship yet he hasn’t yet cut off relationships with my grandchildren. What a magical way you have found to communicate. Creativity is a healer when you use it as you have.

K Superstar's avatar

I remember the first time you posted this story and loved it then. I went back to your Facebook page to look at the photos that you took of the shop and the wrapped packages. Such a lovely story and if I ever make it to Montpelier, I won't miss this store. I hope some day that you can mend the frayed stitches with your son. ❤️

bess k wiley-gress's avatar

What a joy to wake up and read this lovely piece. I'm so sorry about the estrangement between you and your son and his family. I'm so glad you were able to chat with Alain, who is an amazing human being and a balm for the soul. I've been to his toy store each time I've been in Montpellier visiting family there. He's created a magical place, and he is a great spirit.

Jeanne Verity's avatar

Thank you for this wonderful story. My son and I are estranged, it has been a long and difficult journey. But, like you, I can appreciate the joy and beauty in my life. I don't live in the land of make believe, either. If we reunite, that will be a bonus. But I live in the here and now, enjoying all that I can. This story touched me so much today.

Nancy Christie—Still Writing's avatar

Your story touched me deeply because I have a similar situation—one that has gone on far longer. But we do what we can, send our love to the absent ones and hope someday things will improve.

Cindy's avatar

Two things:

your granddaughters will forever remember these gifts and

I think you are one of the bravest writers I’ve ever read.

Thank you.

Cynthia's avatar

I read this story on the drive back from visiting my son and his family. I love them all dearly but my 10 month old granddaughter Madeline, my only grandchild, is the joy of my life. Tears flowed freely feeling pain and sadness for what you are going through. Your hope and ability to feel joy for life despite the circumstances

Is beautiful. The continued contact is something you’re grandchildren will remember. Hoping a change comes in the future

Leslie Rowen's avatar

Thank you for your beautiful story with your words that feel like a bountiful cornucopia. I will hope that at some point, since life is short, this estrangement will be rectified.

Vi Mooberry's avatar

Your smiles and love of life have carried you this far and will continue to do so. Somethings are not within our ability to change, but hope is always available to fill any gap. You are so delightful and so many love your talents and enthusiasm. A life that is being well-lived despite any setbacks. We just keep keeping on

Marcia's avatar

There is a 2005 movie about estrangement called “In Her Shoes” which your heartfelt piece brought to mind and has me wondering whether your missives to your grandchildren are getting to them or are being withheld by their parents…I hope it all eventually works out well for you.

Joanna's avatar

The cards and gifts often don't make it to the kids. What can you do?

Marcia's avatar

Sometimes we can’t do much and it eventually works out anyway.

Karen Hasler's avatar

Simply beautiful..very touching..thank you.

Pam W.'s avatar

I remember you writing about this visit last year I love this longer version of the story. Continued wishes for things to change for you and your kids and grandchildren.