Burnt Chocolate Stories

We have John Calvin to thank for the work ethic that permeates our culture.  Wasting time sleeping too much or relaxing were literally considered sins. His belief system seeped into most American's bones and became the reason we struggle with so much angst during our retirement years. We fight against taking a nap, continually search for purpose and productivity during our waking hours, and feel we are taking up space that could be occupied by someone more worthy. It's as if there is someone out there taking measurements of our efforts and putting in a red check mark for any failures. Europe operates on a whole different plane. Especially southern Europe. Italians, Greeks, Spaniards never swallowed this line of thinking. They nap in the afternoons, eat a leisurely dinner, open their shops when the mood strikes them. I suspect their retirement years look pretty much the same as it has for most of their lives although I've no proof of that. So here we are, struggling to make ...

After about a year of marriage, Steve and I were sitting together on the sofa, not reading books or watching television, just sitting. Neither of us said a word. After about five minutes, I said, "Well, that's it. We've run out of things to talk about." We both laughed. I miss that level of comfort. The presence of another human being who I love, sitting near me, feeling grounded. We can never imagine what it might be like to be truly alone when we're married, especially after sixty years. Of course Steve and I took separate trips from time to time, but then there was the homecoming, the reconnection, the peace, believing we would see each other again. Unfortunately, there's no cure for the loss. But I've found ways to partially fill the void. I've taken on more tasks around here than I probably should, coordinating groups that have different flavors: newly single women, better known as widows, sharing lunch and feelings; the dining committee; a conver...

I'm probably going to get into trouble for this suggestion, but the issue has been on my mind for some time. Here at Saint John's political discussions are tabu lest someone be offended which I totally understand and support. In the past, we did have candidates running for office present their views, both Democrats and Republicans. But that has waned. In fact lately, we only have current office holders talking about their responsibilities.  I'm absolutely not suggesting we discuss the differences between the two party system that exists. Rather, I think we should have discussions about how government, any government, should function. What is it's responsibility? Is everyone on an equal footing, or do some people have more rights than others?  What about children's rights? In the beginning of our country, only men with property could vote. We have evolved, certainly, but it's only because each of us, in our own small worlds, have demanded change. What else needs ...