Hibernation

by Pat Antonopoulos

Emotional hibernation.
Wonder if three days without writing a blog constitutes emotional hibernation.
Actually does feel like a comfort cave blocks out what needs to be handled, giving time and distance.

Weeks ago, I absolutely knew that blogging would be a challenge. We began the blog as a way to extend the experience of our book, Four Ordinary Women. Through the blog, we would connect with you, Gentle Reader, and you would share with us.

Last evening, it was our privilege to meet a new group of women at House of Menuha. These women shared our twin loves of reading and writing. Many of them spoke as if blogging were both fun and relaxing. Who knew? Blog sites were rattled off as easily as I can name the best brands of peanut butter. Amazing.

Several women spoke about self censorship when writing a blog---the constant awareness of sharing with some depth yet being careful that no other person is harmed by the writing. This, of course, is a tribute to the sensitivity of those women.

And finally, to my point---which is totally anti-hibernation. Blogging can be good, even great for some. It can be our quick post card, but never our handwritten personal letter.

To find the depth and comfort of uncensored women to women communication, start a group. Gather on a regular basis. Build trust. Guard privacy. Open that women to women sharing to ease any difficulty.

If you have a group, treasure it as a lifeline that can sustain when other support fails. These women may never be luncheon friends, but you will be amazed at depth of beauty and enrichment exchanged.