“If you don’t do politics, politics will do you.” Unknown
Although I’ve objected to adding additional political rhetoric to the pile, I also don’t want to die. I sound theatrical, I know, but almost dying is intense, painful, and terrifying. I came too close when I shut up and shut down a few years ago. I’m not going back there. #selfcaringin2017
While I admire friends who seem not to notice the turmoil while posting puppies and pansies, I don’t want to imitate other friends who post flowers I suspect have root rot. I’m sensitive, so I can almost feel through the screen their misery of having to keep up a pleasant image and people pleasing while pretty much hating half their friends. I especially don’t want the latter. I’d rather pile on the rhetoric.
So, I took some time and decided how to throw my own tantrum, convincing myself it’s okay since Jesus turned over tables in the temple. If He can get angry, so can I. As well, I tried making my tantrums as harmless as possible, not attacking individuals, and meaningful. I want to make a difference, not just a bunch of noise. My daughter heard a missionary say the opposite of cynicism is not what we’d think, which is being positive.
The opposite of cynicism is taking action.
I contacted Nordstrom’s to remove my name from their email list, to let them know to keep their reward points, and to count on me to participate in the “grab your wallet” campaign at their competitors’ stores since the movement swings both ways. I sent a second email with a link to an article about Target’s faltering sales the company blames on online shopping. I, on the other hand, credit Target’s decline to getting involved unnecessarily in politics.
I left three messages on Belk’s Facebook page telling them they’d made a mistake joining the political movement, cancelled my Belk credit card, and searched for stores that carry lines like Clinique and department stores that steer clear of offending shoppers who’d prefer not to hear about their politics. I didn’t like that I got snippy with the fellow who cancelled my card, but he kept on (a little) reasoning why I should stay signed up. I overly thanked him at the end to make up for it.
I continue to limit my trips to Target, down from my usual three to four a week to a couple of times a month. I spend a quarter of what I used to in their stores, and not because they’re attentive to transgender people, but because they’re not attentive to conservative customers as well. Target had their chance to be sensitive without being offensive. The company had an opportunity to set an example, to offer a solution as simple as adding unisex restrooms to their stores that don’t already have them. My cousin recently took a corporate job with Wal-Mart, so I’m considering ditching Target altogether.
I left a message thanking Steinmart for staying out of politics, which shows respect for us all.
For me, this isn’t about a brand of clothing I’ve never tried on or where the clothes were manufactured. My issue is with respect and showing it for the silent majority that voted in a drastically different administration for the next four to eight years. At least half of our country either agreed enough with policies to vote Republican, opposed the opponent enough to throw up a roadblock, or felt disregarded, scared, or angry enough to allow into the White House what some see as a bizarre choice. However it came about, I, for one, breathed a sigh of relief for the first time in at least four years – I’d been given back the right to be conservative. The next day, though, I got scared again because of raging and riots. I wondered for a second, “Can I change my vote, please? You know, so they’ll be nice again.”
I’m not naïve about tantrums. I’ve wanted to throw my own, but, like I said, I’m conservative, so I’ve kept how I felt under wraps. I, and others too, pandered to loose beliefs so we wouldn’t be called judgmental, racist, and uncaring. However, when you blatantly fly in the face of what I believe strongly enough and ignore me long enough, I’ll either get so afraid, so angry, or both, that I’ll finally throw my own version of a tantrum … quietly.
On my blog.
At the polls.
At the register.
It dazes crowds when quiet people start grunting and groaning. It’s like, “Where’s that noise coming from?” And then it’s, “Wait a minute. You have no right because you’re supposed to be quiet.” Finally it’s, “I’ll shame you back into being quiet.”
This explains, in part, why November’s election results were shocking. Half the country busied themselves either with complacency, talking up one person and talking down another, or shaming the group that planned to vote differently while the other half waited our turn to speak up … at the polls. Not that we weren’t bashing too, but we just couldn’t gain enough momentum to be heard until there was a hush over the country when the unexpected candidate won. A hush, and then a hedonistic uprising that looks destructive instead of purposeful. I hate being divided like this. I’ve read friends’ posts, some of the same ones posting pansies, who say let’s not talk about our country this way, but I can’t deny it and die.
I had a friend say, “I like you, we get along well, and I think you’re smart, so it’s hard to believe how you vote.” We no longer get together, and it’s not because of how either of us votes. Her arrogance is loud, and it permeates everything. It flies in the face of everything I believe in and everything I like. I’m not wholly humble, but I want to be more that way. I also want to sit across from someone who agrees that neither one of us has the right answers, but we know how we feel, so we talk about that.
Since my emotions are all over the place, I’ve taken drastic-for-me actions and cancelled a credit card, left messages with businesses that have stepped into the political arena, and written about it here because that’s what I do to heal and move on. I’ve put aside wanting to rise above talking about politics. I’m talking about it.
That way, I’m less scared and now maybe we’ll sell our house. I’ve convinced my grown kids that if you’re not doing what you’re supposed to be doing, you stay stuck. We’re showing the house tomorrow, which is why I’m posting back-to-back blog posts. I think this is what I’m supposed to be writing, and so does my daughter, so maybe we’ll get an offer. #unstuck #lecturedbymychild
It’s unfortunate retailers like Belk (ranked the number one department store where conservatives shop), that claimed to be listening to customers, can’t discern that they’re only hearing the screamers. This is unfortunate everywhere. I’d like people to understand that not everyone who has an opinion is talking about it. The election proved that.
Too, it’s trending these days to be liberal and loose. I’ve had short jaunts in it myself. The candidate I said I believed in, spoke up because of, and spent hours campaigning for landed in federal prison even though he was a dynamic force while running for office in the 70’s. Then there was Jimmy Carter in 1977, and Obama, who I didn’t vote for, but I believed once he was in office would ease tension and set an optimistic example. I talked him up for a little while until I felt let down.
Again, it’s about how I feel, and emotions can kill us when we won’t talk, or think we can’t. #selfcaringin2017
I care about blogging through this political mess until I get to the creative place I want to be, and I hope it’s helping some of you to get there too. Feel free to share here constructively about how you feel unless, of course, you want to tell me you feel nauseous. A reader did that to be disdainful, and it’s really not cool. Also, feeling nauseous is not an emotion. #keepitkind #gettingyourownlife #whilelovingthepeopleinit #inthistogether
In This Together,
Kim
Love the pix, Pixabay.com. And thanks to my daughter for the most interesting couple of days. I appreciate your wisdom, guidance, and friendship.
Love this post, Kim, and I agree with you wholeheartedly.
I lost friends due to the way I voted; it would be hard to mistake my leanings (I look like a \’Bikers For Trump\’ recruiting poster), but I certainly didn\’t hold disagreement against anyone.
Alas, disagreement seems to cross the boundaries of political correctness…\”If you disagree with me, I\’m offended, and thus victimized, and YOU are guilty of doing me grievous harm!\”
I had to put my brain in neutral to write the paragraph above. There\’s a whiff of rational lobotomization about it, the Mad Hatter\’s Tea Party.
If the other candidate had been elected I would not have been thrilled, but I wouldn\’t have burned anyone\’s car or business. I\’m not very much fun, I guess, having a preference for bar fights rather than arson.
Perhaps that\’s the problem. Now that the conservatives are in charge, the liberals are afraid they\’ll have to grow up, and turn away from the joys of rebellion to which they feel entitled.
http://blessed-are-the-pure-of-heart.blogspot.com/2017/02/your-dying-spouse-271-do-you-want-to.html
Not much fun because you have a preference for bar fights rather than arson … Andrew, you crack me up! 🙂
A lot of my friends have been quiet alongside me, so I\’m not sure about many people\’s leanings unless they\’ve been screaming on my newsfeed. In that case, I\’ve unfollowed them except one. She got so mean about everyone who voted for Trump, I unfriended her. We\’re better off broken up forever.
I could insert everything you wrote and it\’d flow with my message. I\’ve gotten so tired of fighting myself not to say anything, and then today, I got a lecture from my daughter that I\’m stuck because I\’m not saying what I need to say. She helps me do the tough stuff that\’d I\’d normally run from because what mom wants to set a wimpy example for her daughter, and now her granddaughter (my daughter\’s little three-year-old).
I don\’t have a choice if I want to live. I have to talk and write about things I\’m afraid to talk and write about. Thanks for being a friend. It makes it easier to be here.
Kim, I admire you more than I can say, and I applaud your courage. You\’re a hero.
I feel the same way about you, Andrew.
I\’m honoured beyond words, Kim.
Wonderful post. Just perfect, Kim.
I am a fellow conservative who knows she can\’t keep it all \’inside.\’ Thanks for being a vessel today for communicating what many of us are feeling.
I totally agree with your points here today, many of which I personally experienced, too, including a few colleagues/friends\’ Facebook relationships disintegrating.
As well, your daughter is very wise! I love this: \”The opposite of cynicism is taking action.\”
By the way, I took action by stopping shopping at Target altogether awhile back (which was difficult, because of the limited # of stores in the \’neck of the woods\’ where I live). After moving to the south 6 years ago, I became a loyal Belk patron, but now that you\’ve enlightened me about their political stance, it looks like I\’ll be removing another retailer from my route.
Again, thank you for a terrific, thoughtful and emotive post! I admire your openness!
PS – Happy home-selling!
Jacqui
Jacqui, it\’s timely that I\’m just now finding your response. I\’m not sure how I missed it except maybe I got caught up in the comments on Facebook. Or maybe it\’s because God knew I\’d need it tonight. I tend to write and hide. I\’ve promised myself I wouldn\’t do that this time around, that\’d I stay out in the open and say what I\’ve wanted to say. However, I haven\’t begun my next post, but I will now.
My daughter is very wise. The way I take action (and steer clear of cynicism) is through my writing, but it has to be truth … not writing just for the sake of posting a blog post. I\’d like to think it\’ll get easier to write my passion and stop deferring to easier topics the more I practice.
Friends like you help a lot. It\’s easier to write when surrounded by those who understand and encourage. I appreciate your comment and you sharing the blog post on your page.
Thank you! <3
Kim
Kim,
\”Write and hide.\” I get that; I think many of us do!
Similarly, I have been working to \’stay out in the open\’ in the recent year or so, despite the palpable repercussions. It\’s not easy, and I don\’t always \’do it\’ smoothly – I make mistakes along the way. Thankfully, I have (mostly) forgiving friends.
At the same time, I feel that it\’s not just \’me\’ guiding my hands or thoughts, so I (try to) humble myself to a greater power.
You are a wonderful example of someone taking action and writing her truth. Very good point about not just writing for the sake of posting a blog post. I am perfectly in synchronicity with you on that stance, and it\’s such a challenge sometimes to stay on that path – but oh so important!
I am so excited and anticipatory of your next post! I will continue watching and reading.
Thank you!
Jacqui
Jacqui, when I struggle to write is when I\’ve forgotten \”At the same time, I feel that it’s not just ‘me’ guiding my hands or thoughts, so I (try to) humble myself to a greater power.\” I need a tattoo reminding me to check in with God at least mid-blog post. That\’s about the time I take back over if I\’m going to. 🙂 I\’m happy for the reminder.
Kim, I\’m probably one of the people you suspect of posting flowers with root rot. Although I do occasionally post something political, it\’s usually toned down, and even then I get attacked. We introverts tend not to like people loudly attacking us, even if it\’s on Facebook. I think one of the good things that has come out of this election is that people on both sides have set aside their complacency and become active in a variety of ways. I did have to laugh at your series of actions, not because they were laughable, but because I have pretty much taken the opposite actions to yours. It reminds me of my 40-year marriage in which my husband and I cancelled out each other\’s vote in every election from 1976 to 2008 when he (to my surprise) voted from Obama after a lifetime of voting for people that included George Wallace. That we\’re still married is a testament to the fact that we try to focus on what we have in common and we have kept our sense of humor throughout the years. I have also developed a fairly thick skin from working in the steel industry where the culture was to debate openly and loudly, privately and publicly, and then go out for a beer with that person after work while slapping each other on the back. I guess that\’s a more male oriented culture because when I took the same approach around women at my next company they called me a bitch and avoided me.
I applaud the fact that you are speaking out rather than stuffing it all inside. My viewpoint is sort of like Voltaire\’s when he said that he totally disagreed with someone but would defend to the death their right to say it. I doubt we will ever agree politically. Our life experiences are just too different, as are those of most of Rich\’s family who supported Trump. That doesn\’t matter to me. What matters is that we all get involved in the democratic process because what we all, or at least most of us, have in common, is love of country and what we stand for, problems and all. Keep on keeping it real.
Mary, I need a job in the steel industry. 😉 I\’ve yet to acquire a thicker skin, so this political junk hurts. However, I\’m getting more and more practice at speaking up. So far, I\’ve only had a couple of people attack, which is amazing in a volatile political environment like the one we\’ve had swirling around for sometime now.
I\’m with you about our differences and commonalities. I believe most of us care deeply for our country, but our backgrounds are so different that we go about fixing problems in very different ways. However, we (you and I and the country as a whole) still have more in common whether it seems like it right now or not.
My prayer is the divide closes, at least some, and people end their attacks and replace them with some sort of productive action. <3
I think "real" is the only way you and I can keep it, don't you? Love our writing relationship.
Way to state our case, Kim. I am guilty of posting political stuff sometimes, although I steer clear of all that crap about Hillary and prison. After all, there but for the grace of God, that could be me and lots of other folks I know. How about if everyone just sits back for six months to a year and lets the dust settle and see what the man can accomplish. He was our first and only choice from the beginning. After all, everybody else has screwed up so badly, how much worse can it get!
Billie Ann, thanks for your comment. <3 Oh, how I wish everyone would leave politics alone for a while, let the dust settle, and, yes, let him do his job, but I don't see that coming about. I'm not being quiet if it means turning cynical, and since writing is my way of taking action, I guess I'll be writing more on the topic. I appreciate friends like you who relate and encourage.
From Facebook (Kim Henson) ~
13 Audra Krell, Angie Mojica and 11 others
2 shares (Connie Gardner, Angie Mojica)
Connie Gardner You are Spot on… thank you Kim ❤️
Unlike · Reply · 3 · February 13 at 11:43pm
Kim Henson Thanks for supporting me, Connie Gardner. I really love that we\’ve reconnected and been there for each other. <3
Like · Reply · 1 · February 13 at 11:51pm
Connie Gardner Me too ❤️ thank you Kim 🙌
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 12:05am
Natalie Rakoci So brilliant. For so many reasons. Perhaps I will start a blog on my reactions to your blogs!
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 12:00am
Kim Henson Hahaha, Natalie Rakoci. I love that and I'd be so honored. <3 I think the same thing every Sunday after church. I want to come home and write my reactions to the sermon, but I'm not sure they need my commentary. 😉
Like · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 12:09am · Edited
Natalie Rakoci I think its a brilliant idea! Its your interpretation! A completely different way of relating what you heard!
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 12:09am
Kim Henson Natalie Rakoci, hmmm, maybe it's not a bad idea. It'd be a mini-sermon with my take on it. I've already done it a couple of times and it was nice to share since I can't keep this stuff inside. It just pops out and John's always happy if y'all hear at least some of it. It's pretty overwhelming for one person. lol
Like · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 12:12am
Natalie Rakoci Exactly! If you can't keep it in, that's how I understand that you writers know you have to write it, talk about it, get it OUT!
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 12:14am
Kim Henson Natalie Rakoci, yeah, that's kind of how it works. I just don't want to spew! I want to keep it kind and I don't always feel kind. Keep me in line! <3
Like · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 12:41am
Debbie Johnson I thought this blog post was right on time! You expressed what has happened to so many of us. It does feel good to take action and do something in support of your feelings and what one believes is right! I complained once to the corporate office of a s…See More
Unlike · Reply · 2 · February 14 at 1:29am
Kim Henson Wow, Debbie Johnson, that's really encouraging. You got results! I'd love to see Belk do the right thing. I'm not expecting it, but it sure has felt good to get it off my chest, and to say it here without too much concern about who I'll make angry. You know, you can say it kind and still totally piss off people. lol 😉 Thanks so much for sharing your story! <3 I think this is just more confirmation to speak up.
Like · Reply · February 14 at 1:36am
Debbie Johnson Glad you listened to your daughter. She knew you had a message that you needed to deliver! I'm happy that I agreed with her, and I hope baking the blueberry muffins were the catalyst that drove you to this point!
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 1:33am
Kim Henson Oh, Kelly's on this! She thinks I have a LOT to say, and she's probably right. I got a lecture from her. lol. The muffins are wonderful. I planned to take some to your mom, but I think I may eat them ALL before that happens … not that I need them. I should have shared the calories! Just don't tell her she missed out.
Like · Reply · February 14 at 1:39am
Wanda Doyal Very. Nicely. Done♡
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 3:41am
Kim Henson Thanks to some of my cheerleaders, Wanda Doyal! <3 Rah, rah, post it anyway! Have I mentioned lately I appreciate you? I do, I do, i do.
Like · Reply · February 14 at 2:08pm
Wanda Doyal
Wanda Doyal Love you, sweet girl ♡
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 2:08pm
Megan Hunt Dell Our politics are different, for sure, but I adore you just the same 💜
I will offer a counterpoint, however: Hobby Lobby, Chick-Fil-A, and bakeries that don't make gay cakes. My personal conclusion is that it is not possible, or desirable, to boycott …See More
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 4:04am
Kim Henson I adore you too, Megan Hunt Dell! <3 Ever since our very first honeybee meeting – that's what I forever called it because I never could remember what the acronym was or what it stood for. 🙂 Thanks for bringing your point of view to the table. I'd have to have a boycott list in my purse to keep up, but I had to do something. Taking action that felt important to me and writing this post helped.
Like · Reply · 2 · February 14 at 3:40pm · Edited
Kim Henson Also, I want to clarify that I'm also more offended by "corporate greed and profiteering on the backs of cheap labor and Joe Taxpayer" than I am by transgender people in the Target bathrooms. However, if we address the issue that I addressed in my blo…See More
Like · Reply · 2 · February 14 at 2:18pm
Peggy New I think this is one of the best blogs you have written.
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 7:50am
Kim Henson Thank you, Peggy New! <3 That's a big compliment because, when you leave a comment, I always appreciate it and get insight into my own writing and emotions.
Like · Reply · February 14 at 2:20pm
Angie Mojica Wow Kim, I enjoyed this so much. You've articulated how I've been feeling about the whole political divide. I do care about politics but I don't want it to take over my fun on Facebook. Haha. Then again, I haven't wanted to deal with the backlash of wh…See More
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 8:42am · Edited
Kim Henson I know, Angie Mojica! I don't want to lose fun FB, and I really didn't want to add any negativity. However, I was concerned one day I was going to either type a page-long rant to some innocent person who said Trump's hair looks funny or throw a brick t…See More
Like · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 2:25pm
Angie Mojica You are welcome ❤❤ enjoy your writing.
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 2:31pm
Elizabeth McNew I love that your daughter wisely led you, and I don't think this is a tantrum at all!
Unlike · Reply · 2 · February 14 at 9:17am
Kim Henson Thanks so much, Elizabeth McNew! <3 Since I seldom go into controversial territory, it feels like a rant. I appreciate you.
Like · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 2:27pm
Lucille Zimmerman One of the top five regrets of the dying is that they didn't express their true thoughts. I'm glad you did—this was excellent!
Unlike · Reply · 3 · February 14 at 9:37am
Kim Henson Thanks, Lucille Zimmerman! <3 I think I've expressed before to you how important your lead was throughout the election. I appreciated your calm, and also passionate, concern for our country, and also your respectful way of sharing what you believed. I learned a lot from you.
Like · Reply · 2 · February 14 at 3:39pm · Edited
Lucille Zimmerman Kim Henson thank you.
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 5:47pm
Sue Clifton Stayton Love this one and you! Definitely from the heart!
Unlike · Reply · 2 · February 14 at 4:29pm
Kim Henson I love you too, Sue Clifton Stayton! <3 Thanks.
Like · Reply · February 14 at 10:39pm
Kim Henson I'd love to believe we'll see each other in person one of these days. You think?
Like · Reply · February 14 at 10:39pm
Sue Clifton Stayton You never know, anything is possible.
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 15 at 6:26am
Kim Henson Sue Clifton Stayton, true. 🙂
Like · Reply · February 15 at 9:37am
Jo Rae Johnson Jetton I love this blog, Kim! I too cancelled my red dot card, removed the target app, and haven't spent one dime nor stepped into a Target since they lost their minds. I live less than 2 miles from #Target and was in their stores weekly at minimum. I also ordered online for grands. I also decided not to purchase from. #Nordstrom (although I haven't been a regular there). I've not heard about Belks – what's their story? Companies need to wake up and get out of politics. Our purchasing has power and we are making a difference. Keep it up girl 👍
Unlike · Reply · 2 · February 14 at 7:30pm
Kim Henson Thanks, Jo Rae Johnson Jetton. I don't understand these companies getting involved in politics. Seems like a bad move to me. I'm sure I don't agree with a lot of their politics, just don't throw it in my face. Here's the Belk announcement from their site just a few days ago.
Like · Reply · 2 · February 14 at 10:29pm
Kim Henson
No automatic alt text available. (Belk announcement on FB)
Like · Reply · February 14 at 10:30pm
Kim Henson 15,000 angry people … I think they should have flown under the radar on this one
Like · Reply · 3 · February 14 at 10:31pm
Jo Rae Johnson Jetton Kim Henson, well I tagged them and I have purchased from Belks regularly (mostly online) hope they get the message.
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 11:15pm
Kim Henson Jo Rae Johnson Jetton, Belk is one of my go-to stores. Or used to be. I never say I'll never do something again, but I will shop there very seldom, if at all.
Like · Reply · 1 · February 15 at 12:11am
Peggy New Didn't shop Belk much bec of service …..
Unlike · Reply · 2 · February 15 at 9:50am
Kim Henson Peggy New, good.
Jana Greene This is amazing. Sharing!
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 15 at 9:44am
Kim Henson Awe, thanks, Jana Greene! I saw where you shared it and I LOVED your comment to introduce it!
Like · Reply · 1 · February 15 at 9:45am
Tammy James Quinn This just made my day Kim! Thank you! Thank you!
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 15 at 10:23am
Kim Henson Thank you, Tammy James Quinn! <3 Made my day to finally write it.
Like · Reply · Just now
From Facebook (Natalie Rakoci\’s page) ~
Natalie Rakoci
February 13 at 11:43pm ·
#selfcaringin2017 #SKimHenson #unstuck #lovewarrior #allin
And Kim, there is something to sellers to be ready to let go emotionally. I help them through this process but never labeled it. This is quite profound. Somehow, I love you even more! You have a GIFT of words. (posted blog post)
You, Natalie Rakoci and 2 others
Kim Henson Awe, thanks, Natalie Rakoci. I love you and your encouragement. I feel so blessed we\’re friends. <3 I've almost always been aware of the relationship I've had with my houses. The last one we sold, we went from room to room after it was empty, talked about what happened there, and cried. It was really special and helped me let go of the house I'd called my "dream house," the one I thought I'd grow old in. I got a lecture from my daughter today that I'm not saying what I have to say on my blog or my videos, so I'm keeping us stuck. Yes, ma'am!!! lol 😉 She's so dear!
Like · Reply · 1 · February 13 at 11:50pm
Natalie Rakoci I had post licensure class when left my last home in Ohio. So the last of the boxes were packed by my sister and Mom; ironically, this being my sister's home years before, where the twins were babies and so many memories were made… I didn't get the close the door for the last time… but in an amazing Godly way… my sister DID! Still somewhat traumatic for me. Not doing the final walk through; which for buyers is very exciting. And the opposite for those saying goodbye. This experience has made me a better REALTOR, as I understand how hard it is … especially for sellers who can't come to say a last goodbye.
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 12:49am
Kim Henson Isn't it amazing how our pain makes up so much better at what we do? <3 And how God meets us where we need to be met.
Like · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 12:52am
Kim Henson Isn't it amazing how our pain makes up so much better at what we do? <3 And how God meets us where we need to be met.
Like · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 12:52am
Natalie Rakoci I'll tell you a little secret…. I go through their houses before I take the lockbox off…. I go in each room. I respect each room and the memories that were made there. I say a prayer. I make sure everything is as perfect as possible for the next who will call it home; and I close the door with honest and respect. It's a very big big deal.
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 12:51am
Kim Henson Awe, Natalie Rakoci. I love this. I can see you doing it. <3
Like · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 12:53am
Kim Henson Such a gift for the ones moving in.
Like · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 12:53am
Natalie Rakoci I've had buyer's write letters to sellers and sellers write letters to buyers, and people write nice things about their agents, lenders and attys…. I've talked for people for hours helping them through the emotional process, but never thought of encouraging them to use their artistic talents, their writing, painting, poetry… to say goodbye. I think I've found a topic for my first blog on my new website. This is what I did for 20 years! Helping people through grieving processes, even when they were moving to something new. Through art, play, journaling, exercise, cooking, giving, receiving. We are such a team. xoxoxo I'm not eloquent with words, and especially not titles, but something like…. Ideas for saying goodbye to your home. (a whole other dynamic when it's their dream beach house they have to say goodbye to). I'll sleep on this lol. #teamSKimNat 🙂
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 12:57am
Kim Henson We are a great team, Natalie Rakoci, and that is seriously a wonderful idea. We can kick around some titles if you want to – they're so important for drawing in readers. It's not my strength, but I like brainstorming. I love the idea of you blogging about houses. You're passionate and it'll shine through. I'll sleep on it too.
Like · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 1:06am
Natalie Rakoci I'm honored you think so on all accounts. I'm totally on it!!!
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 1:11am
Kim Henson Natalie Rakoci, keep me updated.
Like · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 1:16am
Natalie Rakoci Of course!!!
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 1:20am
From Facebook (Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter\’s page) ~
Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter
February 14 at 11:53am ·
Excellent blog by writer Kim Henson ::
“If you don’t do politics, politics will do you.” Unknown
Here\’s how Kim\’s post begins (please follow the link for the rest of her story) …
\”Although I’ve objected to adding additional political rhetoric to the pile, I also don’t want to die. I sound theatrical, I know, but almost dying is intense, painful, and terrifying. I came too close when I shut up and shut down a few years ago. I’m not going back there. #selfcaringin2017
While I admire friends who seem not to notice the turmoil while posting puppies and pansies, I don’t want to imitate other friends who post flowers I suspect have root rot. I’m sensitive, so I can almost feel through the screen their misery of having to keep up a pleasant image and people pleasing while pretty much hating half their friends. I especially don’t want the latter. I’d rather pile on the rhetoric.
So, I took some time and decided how to throw my own tantrum, convincing myself it’s okay since Jesus turned over tables in the temple. If He can get angry, so can I. As well, I tried making my tantrums as harmless as possible, not attacking individuals, and meaningful. I want to make a difference, not just a bunch of noise. My daughter heard a missionary say the opposite of cynicism is not what we’d think, which is being positive.
The opposite of cynicism is taking action.\” Read more:
John B. Henson and 4 others
Samantha Gluck Brilliant!
Unlike · Reply · 2 · February 14 at 11:54am
Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter Yes – I\’m so glad this post appeared in my stream today. Well timed, and Kim\’s writing is evocative and \’real.\’
Unlike · Reply · 2 · February 14 at 11:57am · Edited
Samantha Gluck Yes! She writes what I needed to read.
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 11:58am
Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter Samantha: I just took a deep, therapeutic breath reading your comment – as, that is how I felt this morning. Love you, friend.
Unlike · Reply · 2 · February 14 at 12:02pm
Samantha Gluck Love you too, Jac!
Like · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 12:02pm
Kim Henson Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter and Samantha, thank you both! This is incentive to share other posts i\’ve written and tucked away. I appreciate it.
Like · Reply · February 14 at 3:37pm · Edited
Mary McKerihan Wilson Jacqui, Kim and I often talk about how we have experienced similar feelings and emotions–but from opposite sides of the political spectrum. I love her blog posts–and her–even though we don\’t agree, and we have continued to encourage each other\’s writing in spite of our political differences, because we focus on what we have in common.
Unlike · Reply · 3 · February 14 at 12:05pm
Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter I\’m so thankful you introduced me to Kim, Mary. And I will always value my friendship with you, and appreciate your respectful ways, even when we have different viewpoints.
Unlike · Reply · 2 · February 14 at 12:06pm
Sharon Weatherhead-Mathiesen Brilliant and how so many of us feel right now!!
Unlike · Reply · 2 · February 14 at 12:13pm
Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter Sharon: Yes it is. Resonates deeply.
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 12:13pm
Kim Henson Thanks so much, Sharon. I appreciate you reading and commenting.
Like · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 1:55pm
Kim Henson Mary McKerihan Wilson, I love our friendship and, like Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter, I appreciate you and your respectful ways. I\’m also very grateful you introduced Jacqui and me. <3
Like · Reply · 2 · February 14 at 1:58pm
Mary McKerihan Wilson Jacqui and Kim, I love when my friends meet and like each other. I think of myself as a connector.
Unlike · Reply · 2 · February 14 at 2:19pm
Kim Henson Mary McKerihan Wilson, you're Elmer (like Elmer's glue). 🙂
Like · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 2:33pm
Kathy Andros Eckert Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. ~ John 4:23 ~ Kim, so proud of you for this truth! I also found strength in standing up for my beliefs and not caring who snubbed me. For me, it began the night that the White House was lit up with rainbows. I realized that my freedoms were slowly fading away, and no court in this land can tell me what marriage is. I get that truth from the Bible! I realized that night . . . . that for far too long . . . . . way too many . . . . had been way too quiet! Not me, not any longer. I also let folks know that I am not their judge, and that I didn't pass judgement on their sin, and they could do the same for my sin. Yes, we all sin and fall short. 🙂 This born again, spirit filled, wild Greek girl was not going down without a fight!!!! Standing with you my friend, and . . . . if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. John 8:36 #iamfreetodance #youarefreetoblog #intheendthetruthwillwin #ipickedtrumpinjuneoffifteen #thankjesusthattrumpwon #godblessdonaldjtrump
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 14 at 11:10pm · Edited
Kim Henson Kathy Andros Eckert, I've written another blog post and I mentioned you at the end. It tickled me so much when you came to mind. Not sure when I'm posting it, but it was a pleasure to write it and include you. <3 You've been an inspiration for speaking up. I'm not sure I'll ever be as free as you are, but I love your outspokenness. And you've given me something to aim for. 😉 I love you!
Like · Reply · 1 · February 15 at 12:01am
Kathy Andros Eckert I love you too! I am praying over the showing today. I pray that the Lord blesses and keeps you and makes His face to shine upon you today! So very thankful that He brought us back together again. Please, please let me know when you post the one with the wild Greek woman! 😉 Love you more!!!! <3 God Bless!!!
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 15 at 7:39am
Kim Henson I sure will! 🙂
Like · Reply · February 15 at 9:35am
Kathy Andros Eckert Made me think of you, my friend! Happy Hump Day! <3 #selfcare2017
Image may contain: ocean, outdoor and nature
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 15 at 8:00am · Edited
Kim Henson I absolutely love this, Kathy Andros Eckert! <3
Like · Reply · February 15 at 9:35am
From Facebook (Jana Greene\’s page) ~
Jana Greene
February 15 at 9:30am ·
This. This. THIS. ALL DAY LONG.
The same people who get riled up about the separation of church and state (rightfully, I think they should be separate) seem to think businesses should take a side in the political brouhaha. If I go to a store, I really don\’t care what the corporate (evil capitalists!) think about this issue or the other. Shut up and sell me toilet paper or I go somewhere where I don\’t have to scrutinize what this business \’stands for.\’ Stand for low prices and good customer service. How about that? It\’s called the Free Market System – if you don\’t like one retailer, there are others you can choose from! Some even deliver your stuff via an extremely non-partisan drone!
Also, this piece was written by one of my favorite writers and personal friends. Good job, Kim Henson! (posted blog post)
Kim Henson I love what YOU said better than my post, Jana Greene! 🙂 I appreciate you passing this along. #lovemywriterfriends
Like · Reply · 1 · February 15 at 9:47am · Edited
Sandi Parnell Norris Howbow dat?
Unlike · Reply · 1 · February 15 at 2:06pm
From Facebook (Angie Mojica\’s page) ~
Angie Mojica shared your post.
February 14 at 8:43am ·
Thoughtful and honest 🙂🙂
(shared blog post)
Kim Henson Thanks so much for passing this along, Angie Mojica. I\’m so happy to be fellow writers. <3
Like · Reply · Just now
From Facebook (S. Kim Henson) ~
Lynne Henson and Rebecca Barnes-Hogg