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Mary McKnight's avatar

Holly, Holly, Holly...we have never actually met, and yet when I read your writing, I feel like I am sitting with an old, dear friend. Please know how precious this is to me. How does a "stranger" become precious to someone? By sharing their heart, and that's what you do. I know it's not "just for Mary." But when I read your work, it feels that way. That is a gift. I am so thankful for Release and Gather. Oh, now, to answer your prompt. I am an asker of questions. I want to know people's stories. I LOVE the "common person's" stories, as they truly are not "common" at all. They are each extraordinary and brave, each in their own way. That being said, I am practicing NOT doing that to my daughter (who is now 22). Damn, it is HARD!!!!! I am trying (some days I am better or worse at this) to meet her as the young woman she is...not as the little girl I sheltered from bad things and spending hours chattering away with each other...but accepting that she will talk now when she feels like it. And I need to listen openly, without "answers" and without follow-up questions (which are rattling around in my head and heart). Thank you for your post, your photos, recommendations for places to eat and stay for Jonah's 9 months of birthing a recovery that I want to last a lifetime, and for all things Holly.

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C.L. Steiner's avatar

I love road trips. Your piece reminded me of one of the best suggestions I’ve received in recovery when my friend Big Nik said, “Never pass up the opportunity to shut the f*** up.”

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