Happy Luau

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Two Months Have Gone By!

It has been almost two months since I last blogged. I don't think I've ever taken that long of a hiatus since I started blogging back in the 90's. It certainly wasn't planned.

I found myself in a time when there was so little I had to share, mostly for privacy reasons, but also because my creativity had dried up a lot, and it seemed to be all I could do to just function in my life with its seemingly enormous challenges, and limit my online life to keeping up with all of your blogs, and a stray random Facebook comment now and again. Towards the end I read your blogs but couldn't even bring myself to comment. The intense family issues I've been experiencing have kept me absorbed and busy.

I felt as though I had nothing to give and just received, received, received, which really felt good. I was like a dry sponge that was cracking and needed to just let in support and love from other people, which I did receive in spades. Including from many of you, for which I am so grateful. Thank you, thank you!

Many aspects of my life have changed in the last four months or so, all for the better. I've been involved in lots and lots of therapy--individual and group, Twelve Step work, and practical lifestyle changes. Last week I spent the entire week in Atlanta, Georgia, at a Family Week in a treatment center learning about addiction and enjoying 2-3 hours of intense therapy per day. My family is different now, moving on a positive path, and I am grateful for all of it. I would never have thought I could have said that.

Along the way I have met many wonderful people, both professionals and non, some of the most caring people imaginable. It has been a great experience. I have been struck by the strength and courage of so many people who are in recovery and of those who support people in recovery. My sense of reality and my personal beliefs have changed and I have grown.

So today I wanted to update you, and then see if I can continue blogging, to take on the challenge of being authentic and yet respecting issues of privacy and anonymity. It won't be easy, but I miss blogging, and I miss all of you--the part of our interaction where I share my life with you too, not just yours with me. So here we go....

14 comments:

kate i said...

It's so good to see you back here Olivia and to know that you are OK. I'm sorry to hear of your family challenges but glad you've been receiving the support you needed. Sending you love and hugs across the water. Please know that you've been missed...I've been thinking of you.

patti said...

I've missed you here too O and I hope you can continue to keep blogging in your life.

I am glad that you are receiving the care and therapy that you need to overcome your challenges.

Sending you love and wishing you strength to get through to the other side. xx

Kate Robertson said...

I am so glad to see a post from you. I am happy to hear that you have been taking care of you, that is so important. Hoping to see you on the blog more as you work your way through your challenges. I've missed you.

Kate

Angie at Home said...

Yeah.. I'm happy to see you back Olivia. I love the picture that you have included in your post. Looking to the future, filled with hope and joy, walking the path to your awakening and know deep down that you are enough, that you are so worth it, that you are loved. Sending love and light your way my dear friend. Ang

Suzie Ridler said...

Oh I have missed you! But I love the inner work you have been working so hard on. It sounds amazingly transformative and powerful. Whatever way you want to participate is just fine with me. Just make sure to take care of yourself and have fun.

Kim Mailhot said...

Oh, Olivia, how good it is to feel your presense here. Your light is needed in this world ! I would love to encourage you to blog in whatever way you can, but to keep that voice in the conversation, Lovely One. You are truly missed when you are not here.
I am glad you have found some help for your family issues. Your strength coupled with that will surely bring you to a better place.
Sending big, big love your way!

Nikki (Sarah) said...

welcome back....sometimes I think we need a break to renew ourselves. Glad you're back.

CrystalChick said...

Even though you've had to go through much difficulty, it's really good to hear that you're finding many positive sides to these challenges. Being so open to the support will allow you to make new relationships and friendships and grow with the experiences.
Nice to see you posting again, but of course, everyone understands that you may need time and space as you continue working through all the family issues. There will always be people here checking in and cheering you and yours on from our own little places in the world. xo

couragetocreatewriteandlove said...

what's important is that i hear from you and you are fine.
i hope you know i worry about you being sad or depress
drop me a note if you need anything i am more than happy to help you anytime

Unknown said...

I have missed you!
Welcome back. I almost called you a few times just to check in. Sounds like life has been full (to say the least) and yet I am glad to hear that things are moving in a good direction.

rebecca said...

dear olivia,

the photograph you have chosen conveys a straight path towards love, light and peace. welcome back!!! i am so thrilled for your heart work and the promise that exists within the path of authentic living.
welcome home friend!

groovysabrina said...

Hi Olivia, I'm also glad to see you back and know that you're ok. I'm sorry to hear about your challenges, and I know you will tap into your personal sources of energy and strength to overcome them. I know too well the challenges of continuing to blog! I know you'll find a way to do whatever it may be that you need and want to do. take care.

Jane said...

Good to see you back! I would come and check for new posts quite frequently. The time spent away from your blogging sounds very beneficial for you and I truly hope that you venture back in with the perfect balance!

Anonymous said...

I'm so happy you are back here and blogging, but I realize that is selfish of me because I love to come here and read what you write. Of course in the end you have to do what is best for you, what contributes most to your health and growth. xo K