Sometimes heartbreak begets brevity.

sending love and understanding. no questions. just love.

Thanks for sharing the Sting video, that was truly beautiful.

Oh, dearest Owl. I hope this isn't you? I haven't been a lot here lately so I may have missed something.

Somehow, these got past my radar (such as it is.) Thanks for the intro. Got any more?

sending my love. take care of you.

Luis - You didn't miss anything - I did.

And comments ... But you, who I've seen be so generous with your caring, need to know you have ours, too.

Life is always about the ying and the yang, isn't it. I hope balance comes your way soon.

Oh, Owl - lots of love being sent your way...((((OWL!)))

You are a beautiful soul and my heart is with you. All that love generated is still with you.

Oh, Owl, I don't care how dignified you continue to sound, I can be undignifiedly petulant for you. How's the Giant?

So much emotion in so few words. Caring thoughts coming your way.

This is, without a doubt, the hardest thing I've ever done. It is, without a doubt, the hardest thing she's ever done.

In the paradox of life, it's because we love each other that we have to separate - and we both know it.

The Giant . . . is in teenworld. Right now, he doesn't know, although he's probably guessed. He'll be 16 in a few days.

Oh, damn, Owl. I understand. Been there. But it's never easy, is it? Fuck. [[[[[Owl]]]]]

Thanks, guys. It's a helluva thing. I've held it together for 2 days.

Mrs. M - thanks for that. I'm a guy at heart, and accustomed to just, you know, dealing with whatever - so if I sound dignified, cool. It belies the incredibly searing reality that is sinking in.

I'm going to be okay. The Giant is going to be okay - he'll always have a place with me, if ever he needs it. Raven will find her wings.

It's just the moment . . . goddamn.

But where you've been, you did walk with.
It's something.

Jeff, so true. No regrets.

Hugs.

I wish you the best.

Since nothing else will probably make since, just stay busy doing lots of meaningless, but practical tasks.

I cleaned my car today.

It has been a year since things took a turn for the worse-in my last and most meaningful relationship and until recently, I feel like I have been on a 12 step program. I avoid love like a bottle of gin.

{{{(((OWL)))}}}
I hold you up so you won't fall.
I care.
S

much peaceful and healing thoughts going back at you. I hope you're okay.

You guys are pretty amazing.

Mission - that statement . . . just hearing it, it makes a difference. I'd like to think we all do that for each other.

And for all that doesn't feel okay, it'll get there.

You are a courageous, beautiful soul, my friend. You know I love you...xox

Thanks, Robin - that means a lot to me, especially right now. As a friend often says, sometimes you've got to burn the boat.

I'm calling...

Owl I am so sorry! However, I have also read your tags and I will not intrude. Just know that I care and am more than happy to support & listen when you feel like it.

xoxoxo,

Wishing peace and strength to you.

Oh, Owl... (((hugs)))

"...But this,
this slow erosion from below
--or within--
it's me falling down around my life
because you're still in that life
--but not really.
And you're out of that life
--but not quite.

I do all right
alone,
and better
together,
but
I do very poorly
when
semi-
together..."

~Harold H. Bloomfield, M.D.~ How to Survive the Loss of a Love~

According to Google Adscents: to get through this first you need to take out a reverse mortgage, then listen to the new Harry Connick, Jr. album, and conclude by taking a survey on health reform allegedly written by the spineless Senator from Nevada, Harry Reid.

Damn...

(((hugs)))

You are a wise owl. Wisdom doesn't make things easier; but it can help us do the things we need to.

more (((hugs)))...

Sister Owl, I´m sending you all my affection, you know that. I´m very sorry.
Kisses and hugs ((((Owl)))))
Marcela

I'm so sorry! May you find peace and happiness -- and may your burden be light.

xoxo,

My dear Owl, I have to share the words that a very dear friend sent me when my heartbreak was just beginning. The words are as profound now as then, and they have brought me immeasurable comfort.

"Hey sister - I couldn't read and not comment. Upheaval seems to be in the air these days - you're not alone. The biggest fights I've had with my wife, including one separation, have been the times I've learned the most about myself and her both - the good, the bad, the ugly, and the just plain uncomfortable.

I can only imagine how difficult this time is for you. An undertaking as enormous as transitioning into your new mind/body would take an extreme amount of focus, I am guessing. In that regard, it's possible that you missed a few important details along the way - but that is also the nature of being extremely focused/driven.

I don't have any answers - just a reminder that as you are now able to see things around you more clearly, be gentle with yourself. Of course we have to take responsibility for our actions/inattentions - but no person is ever entirely aware of all things at all times. Be gentle with yourself - responsible and aware, but gentle.

Blessings, Elena. Namaste.
Owl_Says_Who

Absolutely beautiful choices. I didn't know the name of the first performer until now. I love the song and Sting, ah, Sting, the man that never made a bad song. This was very nice.
rated

"How are we going to get through this craziness?" I asked. There was silence for a moment. "Left foot, right foot, left foot ,breathe," he said. (Anne Lamott)

Just remember there are a lot of us holding your virtual hand as you take those steps forward. You are a bright shining star in the universe.

Sometimes the fewer the words, the more truth they can hold.

All I've got to say is {{{{Hugs}}}}

Damn, I must have something in my eye...

I always believe that without fail honesty will in the end will lead us to where we want to be.

You guys are the best . . . seriously. Your thoughts, prayers, wishes, and hugs mean more than you could possibly know. Or maybe you do, and that's why . . .

Mothership, that quote . . . yeah . . .

littlewillie, your insight has given me guidance, and a much needed laugh!

Elena, I am blessed that something I wrote was memorable and helpful. And it brings home the point that we need to listen to ourselves - sometimes we know more than we think we do. Namaste.

Here now just to listen. . .no questions or advice. Just here. Will return for this.

Owl, I have no words... Just hugs.

I'm sorry Owl. Shit.

Ohhhhh. Owl. Ohhh. And ohhh. I wish I had the 'right' words to say. I wish I had the words to make it all better and to help you breathe. I send you breath. I send you tears. I send. Peace.

Came here from Steve's cliche post, and everything I start to write seems like one, now. I'll just say that I'm thinking of all three of you with love and concern.

Harry, I totally agree. Dishonesty ends up having more regrets, far more often than not. Brutal honesty may hurt, but at least it's clear.

And the tears finally came tonight. For me, it's a little like puking - I hate it but sometimes it's the only exit point. Breathing got easier after that.

A thought before I crash for the night: it's one thing to know, in theory, that I'm not alone - it's another thing entirely not to FEEL alone, especially right now. You overwhelm me with your kindness.

Namaste.

:(

I am crying, crying, crying as I hear these tunes, read your tags, read the verse of Bloomfield. And with each tear, my mind is whispering a healing of your heart.

*tight hugs to the best owl a Tink has ever known*

Nothing sadder than a sad owl!!! Go read my latest post, I've been sad too. And drinking with some owl and eagle friends of mine. They know how to party!! WOOOO!! :)

I've discovered that it is better to have done something, then something and something. I forge the saying, the point is, YOU WILL SURVIVE, YOU WILL SURVIVE!!!

*another hug* Rated for you, and Happy 16th birthday to Giant. Damn, 16? EEK!!!! FLY AWAY!! :)

If I could send you flowers and butterflies and beautiful sunny days and sweet things to eat and hugs and kisses, I would....

oh, sweetheart, i didn't know this was even in the offing. shit, man. i love you so much. i just want you to have the best life possible, love. god, that music... love love love and light and more love and prayers and gratitude for you and who you are and the help you gave me yesterday, despite how you must ahve been feeling. you're an awesome chick.

This happens to be exquisite, but mostly profound. We all care so much about you. Hugs to you. Take care.

Owl. You'd be more joy to hang out with than Lucy (lovable) Ball who loved Daisy Arnez. Desi was a notorious womanizer. He'd had a fling with Betty Grable. Dezi would sneak off with the chorus singers and soar off somewhere to practice communication skills. Maybe all this verbal affection stimulation (Life) can lead sometime to that old more warm-felt, affectionate kissing ? Maybe, huh?
Life can sure give possums black and blue inner bruises.
There is a cute raccoon that comes to visit me on the porch.
He'll bring a gal-raccoon and clean the burnt iron-pans of soups.

Enmity.

You'd be a ball to sit and banter of Life. Enmity? No reconciliation. People who have never been promiscuous (no tease. I've been chaste, relatively, I bet you/others know the painful realization) know separation. I'd try to keep lawyers out of these sad Life experiences? Ya can feel plain miserable. I'm too going on and on. I blame the slow download.

Enmity/Separation happens long before divorce. I getting off into wild imagination. Go out to purchase a cheap bra, blouse, trousers, and check out the dog kennel for a Great Dane? Do a farmer market gig at DCs George Washington's University Law School and check out '?' the undergraduate? If Ya love once Ya always will love. When I see two people walking down the street holding hand ask which one of You two will run away if the had grip is loosened? Take one of the two?
Ay!
I hold the lease collar chain of a tabby cat. I think she wants to run off with a raccoon? Dachshund? Owl? No peck the Editors. Editors may pick this as a best pickax for Ya ditch? I'd rather dig plow rows and ditches than blog all day. Oh Owl. Take a morn flight in the rain.
Bless You.
You can peck at my barn door?
apologies for this boring bater.
I'll send a wedge of Blue cheese.
Check Ya tree mailbox post hole.
I'll mail the Blue Moo brie cheese.

Oh... this is hard... just changing those pronouns seems too awful. So sorry...

Oh Owl...in the midst of rewriting your life you have taken time to comfort me. I'm so sorry, but I can see you are forging ahead wisely...as any Owl should. My love and support is here for you in this transitional time. (((HUGS)))

Sorry for your pain, Owl. To new beginnings

(((Owl))), I feel like crap for getting here so late, but I so understand this (thus why I am late). In a way, I am envious of the clarity you display here. An old friend used to speak of "walking through the wall of fear." It sounds like you've mustered the courage and stepped forward. I am here for you sista. Namaste.

Touched my soul. The title is such a tribute...much LOVE to you.

On and on the rain will fall
Like tears from a star like tears from a star
On and on the rain will say
How fragile we are how fragile we are...

Heartbreak can beget great joy. The universe will give back..it is the waiting to see what comes that is so hard. Be open and put one foot in front of the other until you can bear to look ahead. That is enough for right now.

The pain in my heart is just a little bit deeper knowing that you are going through something so similar. I would say that I'm sorry but when it's said to me it just doesn't seem to fit...so I'll say I'm with you. Loving ourselves enough to go on without them has to be one of the hardest things...ever. Loving them enough to leave...unbearable. I feel this, literally. My thoughts to you, Raven, and the Giant. This is how we grow...

I have been so taken up with my own problems, I hardly read any of my friends' posts. It sucks, because I miss so much. I am so sorry this is happening for you. I send healing love your way. May this be a change toward a better life for everyone involved. Blessings and peace.

Seriously, folks - I can't thank you enough.

I'm really glad for the virtual hugs, because real ones might break me in half.

Tink, you're cracking me up.

Art, that's sweet and funny and true, all at once.

Buffy, you inspire me as you forge ahead as well. Sometimes supporting others helps distribute the load a little, and it doesn't cost me anything to let you (and others) know that I care. At least, that's how I figure it.

daughterofireland, on a good day, I agree. Right now, I'm hoping you're right.

Commcouns, I know what you mean. "I'm sorry" . . . it fits the sorrow part, as in I'm sorry this is happening. Sometimes I hate growth.

Max, I'm hoping so. I think it will be. Thanks.

a simple change of words...

excellent. Yes, move towards healing - the rest of the story for another time. We'll be here if or when.

Owl, my friend, I'm sorry I didn't see this until today to say something to comfort you. Your brilliant but sad poem cuts to the heart.
I'm more sorry I'm not as wise as you, to say just the right thing. I'm impressed by your strength of character, which I know will carry you through. But at times when it hurts, know that we are with you and wishing you all the best. Your beautiful soul has touched all of us, and we cherish you.

You captured the change in thinking that has to come, but it's so dang hard. Surrounding you with loving light.

Not often you see words twisting as hard as the heart is wrenching.

I'm sorry.

This I understand.... Peace to you! Sending love and understanding your way. And a big HUG!

BigBadButchy hugs, Owl. Clever and heartbreaking. I know the feeling well. Feel free to PM. Sometimes it's easier to talk to a stranger. Thinking of you.

Sweet Owler,
I have not been around lately so I was shocked and very sad for you when I read this. I applaud you and Raven for being brutally honest with each other. I cry for you both that it has come to this difficult decision.
My prayer for you each is that you find what you need and that maybe, just maybe you will find a way back to each other.
Blessings to you, sending you positive thoughts and strength to help lift you up and over all this.
If there is anything I can do please just let me know. Don't go M.I.A. on us ok?

The never ending interloper in my head says sometimes you're the windshield. Sending healing beams your way.

Well Owl, popped by to check in on you and found... heartbreak. I'm so, so sorry. I'm sure Giant knows he can count on you when he needs someone. Hugs. You are a lovely person to know here, and I wish this road had been easier.

I hate growth too. Especially when it happens like this. There's something to be said when two people, such as an Owl and a Raven, part ways...what that something is I'm not quite sure just yet.

The hugs that break us are also the ones that give us strength. Sometimes we need to fall apart.

The lake that you've written about is but minutes from my home. When I visit it later today...I will be thinking of you and the heartbreak that connects us.

I have been among the missing for weeks now. Deep in my own little anti-flounce perspective. I wandered back and found this and it broke my heart. Best wishes and sincere affection goes out to you. I am hoping you will be all right.

I love this. I like your strike through style. I never thought of using it in serious stuff before. Powerful. I am sorry for your loss.

I'm so sorry, Owl. Thinking of you.

Your gift has not left you, if that's any comfort at all. Take care.

I feel you. I am feeling it now and just blogged about it too.

You had me at the first line with the strike-throughs. And that song by Duncan Sheik has hit the spot.

Duane, I wish it were as simple as a change in words. That's something I KNOW how to do. But then, that's the trick of life anyway, especially when our hearts are part of the equation.

AHP, thanks. Right now I feel as if whatever wisdom I may or may not have is a sort of irony - just human, I guess. My character has been tested in various ways over the years, and mostly it has held up pretty well; thank you for reminding me of it, so that I can stick close to my heart as we make the decisions that shape the next phase.

ladyfarmerjed, sometimes that's what it takes. It's a terrible paradox, but sometimes truth is like that. I have no intentions of going MIA. If anything, I'm making myself stay in circulation; turns out that's sometimes healthier than isolation.

O'Really, you write serious stuff?

Hells Bells, oddly enough, that is a comfort.

Trudge, thanks, man.

Everyone else, thank you just doesn't cover it. There's something about "hearing" your voices that really does help.

Oh Owl! Oh no! I'm so sorry. That Duncan Sheik song- god- I always play him when I'm feeling heartbroken too. I wish you healing- I don't know what else to say.

Ouch! Owl? I just noticed we just bumped!
On @OSs feed, we bumped and no smooch?
If we bump on a feed? Ya think it's good luck?
I hope so! No worry about any typo/smooch!~
Good night! Who don't need a good smooch?

fantastic poem

I am so late to this, Owl but that doesn't change my sense of sadness for you as you go through this transition. But it also makes me sense that this change should bring with it much hope. We are here for you. I promise, I am. xoxo

Wow. Owl... I agree, sometimes brevity says what the heart cannot.
And the Sting song is perfect ~ even the guitar sings with pain.
Hugs.

It has always surprised and terrified me, how much pain we can feel when nothing is actually physically wrong. xo

Near speechless. Ouch? Are you OK? Virtual hugs. The squishy kind. xo

What a difference a pronoun makes. Sending you belated (((HUGS))).

In honor of you owl. . http://open.salon.com/blog/chicago_guy

I'm so sorry. Your heartbreak is today's miserable rain.

yes, you are a beautiful soul.

and i can feel a groundedness amidst the pain. a sense of spiritual journey and correctness, which makes me feel like you are doing alright.

i like the brevity of your piece. you are right. sometimes they are too many words for simple, pointed pain.

eat something lovely today. something decadent and delicious. light candles. pretty songs. hot bath. old book. soft sweater. comfy socks.

Dear One. You are amazing. My shoulders are here, and they are yours. I can't do much for you, but I can listen and I can care.

You Are Not Alone.

"Thanks" seems so small compared to the love and support each of you has lent me.

cartouche, I think it will bring hope. sometimes the process just sucks, is all.

Sandra, exactly, exactly.

Chicago Guy, that is just beautiful. Thank you.

Beth, thanks for that. I'm doing better than I thought I would, by turns. In the middle of all of this, I have much to be thankful for. As soon as I have my residence, your suggestions will be at the top of the to-do list.

dicea, namaste. Moo.

Owl: My heart aches for you. I can't say it better than anyone else here. Just a hand reaching out into the ether to you to let you know I'm here...

I can only imagine how you feel. I'm here for what that's worth.

love n a hug - sorry I missed this ... Owl? so many of us are here while you ride this tide

wow, increible.

I'm so sorry, Owl.

Rotten luck. Do you think it's permanent, or will things work out in the long run?

In either case, supportive hugs to you.

Dear Owl, you do not know me even in the OS sense, but I have been reading your work for quite some time. It seem so recently I read the beautiful post about Raven and your meeting. I am so very sorry, your post is so beautiful and raw with pain, sending you healing.

Hugs to each of you - thank you for your good thoughts and support. I've come back here many times yesterday and today to re-read your comments. Does that sound cheesy?

I really don't know what else to say, except thank you. It's worth more than you know. We're going to get through this.

Oh Owl.... You have such a kind and knowing heart. I hate that this is happening to your family. But you will survive and be happy again. I promise.

And I hope brevity applies to the heartbreak.......
Be well....

xoxo

((((HUGS)))) Sending love and peace. Best to you dear owl....the pain will lessen.

You guys are killing me here. I try to be all cool and collected and dignified, and you keep hugging me with kind words, which blows my cool, and makes me choke up (which is actually a good thing, but tears are not my forte), and yes, it's very comforting and I feel like there are people standing around me, and it helped me get through a weekend which might have been otherwise nearly unbearable. But . . . well, there is no but, I guess.

Thanks. Love you guys.

Owl, achingly beautiful as you are. I know both paths.

((heart))

Thinking of you...

Sending you some balm for that injury on your heart.

Owl~Here's a Monday hug {{{{{Owl}}}}}

Owl, I am so very sorry. Even if you both agreed it was best, that doesn't lessen the pain.

Sending you good thoughts and prayers, my friend. Wishing you both all the best.

WowL. That's my new word for today.

Anyway, here's riddle for you.

"What's the difference between a pill and a hill?

Answer: "One is hard to get up, the other is hard to get down."

Which is an entirely unsatisfactory riddle if you ask me. What if you're on top of the hill? What if you're nauseated?

But then again I don't know much about being on top of the hill. Always climbing.

The outpouring of love and emotional support you’ve received is a reflection of how much you’ve given of yourself to the OS community.

May you find inner peace.

HUGS!!!!

You certainly captured heartbreak. I've always thought that separating from someone who knows every freckle of you requires taking on a whole new language to confront the world afterwards and this really captures that.

oh Owl (((Owl))) Shit, I am sorry woman, so sorry.

Thanks, all. I so appreciate the hugs and good thoughts. Not only did they help me get through a tough weekend, I keep coming back to them as a reminder that it'll be ok. I love you guys.

Owl, I'm with you... and I see so many others here on OS are too. You are a beautiful soul... xoxoxo

Better late than never.
One thing I could say: you are too cool, man.

Rated.

the other you of my we is currently away. but i spent a pleasant eve with other you's and a different we, a different kind of we. we thinking leads to more we. there is always lots of we for someone like you. someone with an attitude of gratitude (as expressed in your most recent post)
hope you are well in your single you-ness. :-)

screamin mama, Thoth - thanks, friends. I'm working through it.

Joody - So far, so good. The "we" that has passed is working hard to transform into a friendship that will withstand singleness, and the possibilities of new "we's" in the future. Some days are better than others. Today is a good day.