Oh Holly, what a poignant, visceral response to this conundrum. You have delicately immersed yourself in the positions of both mother and childless friend, providing perspectives from the wounded heart of life's inverse seasons.
Authenticity in a nutshell. The modern vernacular ascribes 'you be you' - a Mia trait gratefully received by your readership.
This article absolutely resonated with me. After 40 years of road running, accompanied by many years playing 'change of direction sport', I succumbed to my first knee injury last year. The orthopaedic surgeon graciously stated, "I can't work miracles. You have old knees." Running days - gone forever! I ran because I loved it, not because I was good at it - it was my mental health saviour, an endorphin fuelled ride of ecstasy, a spiritual bubble of life appreciation, my identity - this was who I am. Gone!
What a beautiful and raw insight into the Bronte sisters familial and competitive relationship. Oppositional emotions and bonding moments must be excruciatingly difficult to navigate at times. Kudos to you both for being supportive of one another despite the difficulties. Cate and Bronte - the epitome of sisterly love.
The dangle of a monetary fishing line from a company which sucks the lifeblood from traditional lands is not Netball Australia's saving grace- - look no further than the Australian Diamonds. They stand for a united sporting sisterhood, their collective conscience speaking volumes.
What a gift of a story Carolyn ..... the pain of life, loss, acceptance, adventure, love, culminating in the creation of new life, your Adam. Thank you for sharing the pitfalls and peaks of your travels. The wonder of wanderlust manifests in miraculous ways.
I would say "Brava" to Professor Marylouise McLaws for her epidemiological analysis and measured media responses to the Covid 19 viral infiltration into Australian society. Her calmness, accompanied by scientific savvy, kept us informed and knowledgeably armed regarding the national virus escalation. Thank you Professor McLaws.
Best article ever! Moved me to tears.
The year was 1990 - I wore a pink satin wedding gown, (as pink was and is my favourite colour), our bridesmaids wore black and gold satin gowns with my dog bridal party colour co-ordinated. The date was a week after the Carnival of Flowers festival in my hometown of Toowoomba, so the floral influences of the Spring season were evident in my choices. My husband's reaction to my alternative bridal style, "Ewwwww - you wore pink!"
Your story deserves more than an "article" - an autobiography could be an extension of this beautiful, heartfelt, succinct rendition of your married life and beyond.
I hear you ..... I see you ..... I feel your pain. Ignorant people have no understanding of a child with a frontal lobe neuro-transmitting disorder, which manifests primarily in behavioural symptoms. An uninformed response is usually targeted with the 'poor parenting' analogy. Most loving parents of ADHD children are incredibly informed, highly strategised in their approaches and focused on positive outcomes. We are well researched and professionally guided by qualified medical / health professionals. As my now ADHD adult son re-iterates - "The greatest minds of our times usually have some mental condition." Unlock the possibilities and they will thrive - their way. You are their passage to achievement. Let their "uniqueness" prevail and shine with your attentive, devoted counsel.
Intimate - beautiful - natural - mothering - nurturing - love.