Miami Beach New Year's Eve
The sun is about to set over the port. There are four cruise ships nestled in their piers, undoubtedly ready to slip out of the intracoastal after sunset to ports of call. The last evening of 2006. I think it deserves some homage.
First, let me say that it was this night one year ago that I began this blog, some 80+ entries ago. And, I'm glad I did. I set my sights on getting published this year, and as one of my strategies, to begin writing on a regular basis. This blog is an outcome of that decision. I'm not published yet, but I've got some pieces in the hopper--building my "body of work" as they say! I've met some of you online, a perfectly wonderful experience.
There are regular readers like Becca and Linda--and one time or two time readers ( or at least that's the only time I've heard from them ) who leave comments that have led to my confidence building that someone is hearing my voice, my point of view. And then there are some of you who read but don't leave comments. But when I see you or talk to you, I'm surprised to know that you already know whatever tidbit of news or insight I might report. Often, the reply, instead of "Oh, that's interesting. I didn't know that" is something quite different. The closet readers respond with: "I know. I read it on your blog yesterday." A supreme compliment.
And then, there is the family connection. I sometimes hear via email from a family member but am never sure how often they read my postings. More than I imagined, as it turns out. My favorite email was from my nephew, Brian, who I didn't think was reading my work. This summer, I wrote something about my sons, his cousins, that was a bit disparaging. Months later, after some family event in which I was singing their praises, Brian emailed me, saying: "Aunt Mary--Guess their behavior balances out over time, right?"
The sun has set now. The last cruise ship is moving deliberately out into the Atlantic. There is a bugle playing at the yacht club across the street to announce the end of the sailing day as it does every night.
May this be a peaceful night for all of you, and for all of those in harm's way. May the new year be one in which, in Yeats' words, "the center holds" around the planet. Happy New Year.
M.C.
1 comment:
I too had encounters over the holidays with folks who read my blog, and I had no idea. When the conversation starts with "oh yeah, I read what you wrote about ...." it becomes a funny little world. I am happy to have discovered your writing this year. As I am also a mother of adult children, I enjoy your insight, candour, heart and humor, especially when it comes to family. Good luck with your goals this year. I may not be much of a writer, but I love to read, and I like your writing. Here's to a happy, healthy 2007 ... enjoy Miami!!!
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