19 Comments
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Beth L. Gainer's avatar

Jeannie,

This is such a beautiful essay; I'm so sorry for your and your brother's loss, as well as Nicole's mother's loss and, of course, her young son's loss. Grief never dies because love never dies.

I'm so glad you have this plant, which is so symbolic. Thank you for writing this.

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Jeannie Ewing's avatar

Beth, I always smile when I see your comments. Thank you. You always make me feel seen.

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Beth L. Gainer's avatar

I love your writing. Happy to comment!

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Nancy A's avatar

Such a tender, loving story. I'm sorry for your loss, because no matter how long ago, the heart remembers. Nature is the greatest balm besides Love. 🌿💞

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Jeannie Ewing's avatar

Thank you, Nancy. Plants are healing for me. :)

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Julie Henderson's avatar

Thank you, Jeannie, for sharing. I'm so sorry you lost Nicole. May your memories of her bring you comfort and peace.

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Jeannie Ewing's avatar

Thank you, Julie. 💓

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Julie Henderson's avatar

You are most welcome, Jeannie.

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Donna Kaiser's avatar

I love everything you share…. This was touching!

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Jeannie Ewing's avatar

Wow I'm so excited to see your name today! I've told my kids you were my favorite teacher. I still remember the reading tub in our third grade classroom!

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Marcia's avatar

I always tell people, if you want to send something send plants not flowers. When flowers die, it’s a sad reminder.

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Jeannie Ewing's avatar

I have heard something similar, Marcia.

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Imola's avatar

What a beautiful, symbolic story Jeannie! It is particularly poignant to read right now. A friend died in her sleep last night and we are trying to support the family. So heartbreaking

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Jeannie Ewing's avatar

Oh I'm so sorry to hear about your friend, Imola. Glad this piece resonated as a form of grieving. 💜

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Imola's avatar

It did… :(

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Alexander Lovell, PhD's avatar

Jeannie, your story about the Areca palm is a beautiful reminder that revitalization can come from the most unexpected places. I love how you describe the plant as a "sturdy presence" and a "reminder that with every metaphorical death, something in me is revitalized." This is so true! I've had similar experiences in my own life where I've found new growth and strength after going through difficult times. Thank you for sharing this fun, inspiring story.

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Jeannie Ewing's avatar

Yes! I love green, living things. My houseplants are “my babies” in a way. They motivate me to keep going, maybe because I understand what the metaphor of their life cycle means to me.

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Donna Kaiser's avatar

Awh - thank you!! Reading tub followed me through FWCS & is now in the library at Bunche Montessori❣️

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Jeannie Ewing's avatar

How lovely!

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