Dear Reader Column 04-25-08

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Dear Reader,

My father-in-law came over to our house last night for a barbeque. When he walked into the kitchen after saying hello, the next thing he said to me was, "You know Suzanne, I've always wondered why you bear your inner most thoughts to the world in your column every day, but now I think I understand why. You make it all right for people to be themselves, whatever that might be. I imagine it's reassuring to be able to think, 'Suzanne's been afraid and scared-to-death of life--I'm not the only one.' Or if someone feels like doing something a bit on the wild and crazy side, that's okay too--because you've written about walking down Main Street with a bubble machine in hand--so they know there's someone out there who's nuttier than they are."

I don't know if my father-in-law realized it, (I guess I should have told him) but his comments just about made me cry. Wouldn't it be wonderful if someone read my column and it put them at ease--nothing would make me happier. Because I've spent way too much of my life worrying, 'Am I doing it right?' and it was such a relief--such a big relief--when I finally accepted the fact that there are a lot of times when I don't do life the way most people do it, but that's okay.

My strength in life comes from my insecurities. Eventually I find my way and even though it might have taken me longer to figure things out, I've never regretted the journey. Stumbling along, the uncertainty of it all, I learn so much more when I'm not sure about anything. And I hope I never forget it's okay to be me--whoever that might be.

Thanks for reading with me. It's so good to read with friends.

Suzanne Beecher
Suzanne@DearReader.com 
http://www.DearReader.com

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Comments

[Sharon Kerr]

Suzanne, Regarding 4/25/08 column.
You are such a Blessing to us all.
I had to comment, because of your words, I receive strength every day.
I don't always have time to read the offering of the week, but you letters help me.

My husband has been in & out of hospitals since July 07, and is now in long term care. This was only 2 months after I retired...he was a very healthy & active 74.
He was near death at least 4 times during the last 8 months. More than stressful to say the least.

It is quite true, that after the patient gets better, the caregiver
starts to fall to pieces. Your columns help to give me strength to go on and live my life the best I can. I am getting support in many other ways, but thanks for
your jumor & honesty about all you
write.

God Bless you,
Sharon Kerr