Comments on: Writing those “Hard Stories”

By: Alice Gordon Royer

Alice Gordon Royer — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 06:19:31 +0000

Betty—our dear writing sister. Thank you for sharing your beautiful insight about those last few days with Harry. I too, remember the two of you in the front row, center. And the great scrap book he made about his years in the military. (That inspired me to make one of our recent wedding.) Such scrapbooks are a great deal of work, and I have never seen one like his before or since! I am sure you and all the family members will enjoy it for many years to come. I have not been married for the many years you two had together, but I know the pleasure of being married to the best partner choice God has for me (like you two were for one another). My first marriage lasted 35 years before I lost my husband so I do know some of the grief you now have. But, under no circumstances would I claim to “know how you feel” as grief is such a personal thing. Thank you for reminding all of us to cherish each day–even each moment–we have with those we love. God bless you now as you pass through the throngs of grief. I will be praying for it to go as easy on you as possible. You are not only a beautiful lady to Harry, but a fine lady to have shared so much with all of us, your writing friends. Fondly, Alice Gordon Royer

By: Linda Missouri

Linda Missouri — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 08:32:49 +0000

Dear Betty and Harry, In the details you share in your story, ACCEPTANCE, I feel the preciousness of each breath of life. You inspire me to see, feel and taste each moment. You let us see both Harry’s and your strengths and also the limits that this stage of life places on your desires. I remember the two of you sitting front row center in Dawn’s class, and when one or you signed up to read your story to us, I delighted in knowing more about your lives. Thank you, Betty, for writing this loving story. YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL. Congratulations on 65 years of paying attention to each other. Love, Linda

By: Sally Ramer

Sally Ramer — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 22:39:22 +0000

Betty,
This is such a beautiful, poignant piece that you wrote for and about your beloved husband, Harry. I heard you read it in class yesterday, and although it made me cry, I found it so positive, somehow. You are giving Harry a wonderful gift while he can still enjoy it: an amazing tribute to him for the lifelong love and support he’s given you and your family. You are there for him right now with such courage, generosity and optimism, cherishing not only all the years you’ve spent together, but also these very precious moments you still have with each other.

By: Morris

Morris — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 20:35:23 +0000

Poignant and beautifully written. A realistic and hard look at the end of a long life and yet it is not depressing but inspiring. It should be published somewhere in the print media.