Remembering Jan at Camp Widow!

Remembering Jan at Camp Widow!

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True Love Never Dies!

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes, 52 seconds

Hello, How Are You?

Hi, have we met before,” I asked tentatively to reduce my rapidly exploding anxiety. I hope you remember me,” the woman said emphatically. “I once had a ring like yours.” 

Realizing it was Jan, my heart skipped a beat. The floor beneath me felt as if a trap door was opening. Shaking Jan’s hands with both of mine was all that could save me from falling into a bottomless rabbit hole.

For years, I had looked forward to meeting Jan again and had thought about what I would say. All I could say now was the same message I shared with all of the guests,” Thanks for coming tonight.”

Jan smiled, and I could feel her pulling her hand away.

I heard about your retirement and wanted to attend. You have had an amazing career,” Jan said with her seductive smile that melted my heart faster than a laser slicing a diamond.”

I took a moment to catch my breath and quickly scanned her hand to see if she was wearing a wedding ring. 

Not seeing any rings, I responded to her. “I am sure you have been more successful than I have been. I stayed in the same job and neighborhood for half a decade.”

“You were always too modest. You have done a lot and helped so many people.”

Several co-workers interrupted to ask me for a group photo. I could not say no, but I did not want to leave Jan. 

“Can you wait for a few minutes? I would love to talk with you so more,” the words left my mouth before fully forming, but it was the best I could do.”

Yes, I can stay for a few moments,” Jan said as I was cajoled into taking a photo with my colleagues. I heard Jan’s voice but could not listen to what else she had said. 

One photo led to another, and I heard the tick-tock of a clock running out of time. Would Jan still be there when I finish with the pictures?

I searched the almost empty banquet hall for Jan as my eyes adjusted after the last photo flash. 

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The Sorrow Apartments

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Today, I explored “The Sorrow Apartments,” the eighth collection of poems by poet Andrea Cohen. Renowned poet Christian Wiman accurately describes Cohen’s work as a “cumulative force,” showcasing her deep attention, genuine intelligence, and soul. Cohen’s distinctive talents are featured in this collection, complemented by her characteristic sly humor, unwavering conciseness, and surprising moments of profound wisdom.

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The Bookstore Sisters: A Short Story

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The Jan Lilien Education Fund sponsors ongoing sustainability and environmental awareness programs. Gifts made this month; I will match dollar-for-dollar. All donations are tax-deductible.

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As Ms. Jordan describes the book,

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The Jan Lilien Education Fund sponsors ongoing sustainability and environmental awareness programs. All donations are tax-deductible.

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I receive a commission when you buy a book or product using a link on this page. Thank you for supporting Sharing Jan’s Love blog.

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Read: June 2021

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Bodily Harm

by Margaret Atwood

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