You know the story.  You’re thinking about something that aches in your heart.  And then … Think about something else!  Good luck on that.

It’s the same when I consider what to write.  There’s a burning issue that demands expression.  But No!  Not that.  Go somewhere safer.

How about the book I’m absorbing right now?  Inkheart.  It chronicles the adventures of daughter Meggie and father Mo.  There’s lots I could say.  But every word would be false to the moment.  Oh, I could make it interesting.  You’d probably like it.  Maybe you’d even buy the book.

But it wouldn’t be real

Ultimately useless in the world

***

Yesterday my cello teacher Lieven told Anja, “Marie” and me about two of his university-level cellists.  The school had changed their class schedules and they could no longer come for their lesson at the usual time.  Actually the only period the young men could show up was at our time – Thursday at 4:00.

(Sigh)

So the four of us sat down and struggled to come up with solutions.  It was great to see how each of us was committed to the well-being of everyone.

The result?  My lesson now is Tuesday at 4:00, with an adult male student I’ve never met.

The sadness rolls over me.  I will no longer be in lessons with my two musical colleagues.  And I will no longer be talking to the three teenagers who come into the room as we’re leaving.

I’m such a social person.  I see friendships ebbing away.  I see opportunities to contribute to the lives of three teen cellists … leaving.  They’re virtually the only “kids” I know here.  I reached so many in Canada.

(Sigh again)

Maybe I’ll approach schools about volunteer opportunities

Even though my Dutch is minimal

But right now, I’ll invite the sadness to sit quietly with me on the couch

“Would you like some coffee?”