Today is Day 2 of the March Slice of Life – that daily writing challenge hosted at Two Writing Teachers.
On Monday, I was on Twitter when I learned about the death of Louise Rennison. There was such an outpouring of tributes to her and her writing – and I did not know her at all. I quickly clicked on links and read about her and was so moved by her life, her writing, her death.
Louise was close to my age but had published many books and had made a name for her humour and her quirky characters.
Twenty years ago another death of a successful woman affected me greatly. She was newly married, had just opened her own gallery and was so happy, with so much to live for. I had talked with her a couple of weeks before her death and was struck by her happiness and passion for life.
Her death in a car accident made me look at my own life – and realize just how unhappy I was in my marriage – and that I deserved to be happy. She inspired me to seek a separation and a divorce and change my life, to take control. Eventually I would remarry and am now very happy.
Louise’s death has caused me to look at my writing life – and realize how little I have done in the past year, and that if I was to die today, I would have little to show for what I have done. I have not pushed myself to pursue this craft of writing with the passion and dedication it deserves.
A wake-up call – and about time – to look at my priorities and what it is I really want from my writing.
The goal of daily writing has begun this month. I need to buckle down and refocus my attention to my stories and make them shine (my OLW for 2016 by the way)
Beverley A Baird 
I’ve only read a few of her books, but laughed throughout them. She had such a great voice.
I’m impressed that you don’t just take stock of your life, but actually take action! Best of luck with your writing and publishing goals.
Thanks Wendy for your kind words.. I am going to search out her books and read them.
It is funny that you talk about renewing your passion and vigor for writing. I am in the same boat…hoping that spark and creativeness flow through my fingers as they used to. It sounds like your spark has been ignited and I look forward to reading more from you.
Thanks Elizabeth. The past year has seemed to pass with little accomplished. I need to buckle down for sure. let’s support each other.
Consideration of legacy (with a small “l” as opposed to Legacy) is one of the various conundrums of the Digital Age, as people grapple with the echoes of ourselves we leave behind in various online spaces, and who has control over those stories and words and ideas. And, have we made an impact? A dent in the world? All deep questions …
Kevin
Thanks Kevin. It’s funny – I wasn’t as much worried about legacy, as not having done much with my writing. Guess I needed to ponder my goals/priorities.
I do not know who Louise Rennison is. You’ve piqued my curiosity. Bravo for being a person who takes stock and learns from hard news and life moments. Thanks for sharing your story.
Thanks Lisa. Sometimes we just get stopped in our tracks and made to make changes. Hope that is the case.
Events that cause one to take stock on goals of life don’t come along every day. We live like we will never be gone, but we know that is not true. Kudos to you for jump starting your life and working to achieve goals.
How did the pacemaker surgery go?
Thanks Elsie. I’ve hated that I’ve been stalled with my writing and need a jumpstart. The surgery went well – he’s getting better each day, seems to have a bit more energy. Two weeks since then and a week left at home, at least.
The wake up call. It’s different for everyone. For me it was getting cancer 2 weeks after I retired. Did it change my priorities? You bet! Don’t be too hard on yourself. We all drift during periods of our lives when we are preoccupied with other things. The important thing is that you are back on track and focused. Full steam ahead!
Thanks for the boost Barbara. It was easy to get sidetracked because of my hubby’s health issues – but not a good enough excuse really. Hope to remedy that now.
What an inspiring story – and isn’t it remarkable how we are moved to action in our lives because of ther example they set.
Thanks Tara. Even at my age I can be led by example – one I am eager to follow.
I am not familiar with her writing but will now have to check it out. It is something how one event can give us the incentive to change what is not working in our lives and to grow and achieve what we know we are capable of.
Thanks Arjeha. I ordered some of her books from the library -want to learn more about her work.
My students loved Louise Rennison’s books, Bev. Thanks for letting us know of her death, and so young. What a nice reflection you’ve written about her, and your other friend, their impact on your life now. I imagine we all think a little more seriously when something touches us like this. I hope you feel good about what you’re doing. I’ve always loved your posts and those beautiful art pieces you’ve shared.
Thanks so much Linda. I feel the same about your posts. You have a way with words!