I read an article recently about a 61-year-old woman who went to the ER thinking she had a heart attack. Doctors learned she suffered a broken heart after her dog died. Yes, there really is such a thing; it’s called takotsubo cardiomyopathy, or broken-heart syndrome. Doesn’t this make a great premise for inclusion in a book?! To read what Harvard Medical School has to say about it, click here.

It is time for her to stand up and claim herself. She must now bring forth from beneath that bushel basket The wonders she has kept hidden for fear they’d be snatched away.   She will collect the many griefs and burdens And surrender them in exchange for Solace in the arms of her treasures.   She will gently close the door to yearnings for what will never be And throw wide the gateway to a paradise Where innumerable possibilities await.   She will prod her failings and shortcomings into that basket And stand atop it, hugging herself in glee,…

Our first amendment rights not only allow US the freedom of speech, they allow OTHERS the same right. Why do we become so hateful when we hear things we don’t like? Each of us is entitled to have our own beliefs and give voice to them. If I don’t agree with you, are you more apt to listen to me if I try to win you over to my side respectfully, with explanations and facts that support what I’m saying, or if I holler at you, call you names, and point out [what I perceive as] your flaws? Why do…