Reflection of Failure

~Kim Libertini I remember looking into the mirror and feeling complete and utter failure.  As a child, growing up in a divorced household, I swore I would not do what my parents did to me.  And there it was, this reflection of a woman that had just filed for divorce. I knew my choice would … Continue reading Reflection of Failure

Golden Scars

The gloom had been brewing since the veterinarian called earlier in the day, but it descended with the sunset. That morning, I had dropped my cat Boots off at the animal clinic after a particularly bad fight with the neighborhood Tomcat. "Boots has fleas," said the vet over the phone, pausing as her words found … Continue reading Golden Scars

Gains

As I attempted to crawl out from the rubble, I remember looking for support. I looked for the faces of those that I expected would be there. Only to find that I had lost many along the way.  Years later, I understand why and how this happens. Back then, these added losses compounded my grief … Continue reading Gains

Mother’s Day Permission Slip

Oh boy, Mother’s Day is approaching. This holiday can be a doozy. While it allows some people to bask in the warm glow of love, family and lineage, for many others, especially those who have lost a mother, child or spouse, the day feels hard and painful. That's why it’s time to rewrite Mother’s Day. … Continue reading Mother’s Day Permission Slip

Love Leaves A Mark

My mom was a blonde, standing about 5 foot 5 inches tall with steel blue eyes. Being adopted she and I share no physical traits whatsoever.  She’s been gone over 7 years now. The longer she’s gone, the more I see how much, despite the lack of genetics, she influenced the woman and mother I … Continue reading Love Leaves A Mark