Comments on: A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

By: Maria Theresa Maggi

Maria Theresa Maggi — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 17:05:06 +0000

Thank you so much, Gena, for taking the time to leave this beautiful comment. As dear as the holidays are to most of us, it IS sad the pressure is on to hurry through them as if they were a blitz. I feel that too. Perhaps the most profound gift of my health challenges is that I had to accept my slowness, and in learning how to do that, I’ve also received the gifts of going slow. A very wise counselor once told me it is the hardest thing of all for anyone to do–slow down that is–so be gentle with yourself about it. Here’s to the unfurling of your own revelations in their own slower time. All the blessings of the season to you and yours. xoxo

By: Gena

Gena — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 12:15:29 +0000

This is a beautiful story, Maria, one that is ideal for the holiday season, when (I think) it is especially important to keep good tidings and warm feeling towards our brethren in mind.

I’ve sort of careened through the holidays this year–a combination of getting sick repeatedly and being “busy” (a word I’m starting to dislike. It makes me sad, because this season is very dear to me. Reading your posts are important, because I think you have a special way of slowing time and noticing things. One of my favorite comments you left on my blog was to do with the word “wander” (you referenced “I wonder as I wander,” a song that I love), and I often find that your blog posts evoke themes of wandering, literal and figurative, so that you can take the time to see subtle connections and allow lessons to take shape. This post is a great example: I loved following the arc of your feelings. It is inspiring to me, and it is a reminder that I can slow down a little in the hopes of allowing similar revelations to unfurl.

Happy December, friend.

By: Maria Theresa Maggi

Maria Theresa Maggi — Sat, 12 Dec 2015 16:56:20 +0000

Yes, indeed, Veronica. Thank you for expressing these sentiments so eloquently. Wishing you the warmth of your new neighborhood friendships!!

By: Veronica

Veronica — Thu, 10 Dec 2015 22:41:50 +0000

Beautiful story, Maria! It’s amazing how a simple walk around the neighborhood with a new friend can be so good for the soul.
I’ve begun to meet new people in our neighborhood, too, and hope to bond with them over walks, or just gardening in the yard.
Tis the season for togetherness, and holding peace for all in our hearts and homes. xo

By: Maria Theresa Maggi

Maria Theresa Maggi — Wed, 09 Dec 2015 20:33:32 +0000

Thank you so much, Deborah, for all these kinds words about my post. I am so happy you felt it so vividly because it was important to me to try and share the experience on a larger level. I think the folks on Nextdoor will most likely continue their debate about what should be allowed in construction and remodeling, but a couple of people and thanked me and one wrote it is the best thing she’d ever read on Nextdoor. 🙂 I am especially pleased, too, that you love the drawing of the Blue Wheelbarrow. I just love that old wheelbarrow in the Emerson Street Garden and am very happy to share it this way with others.

By: Debra Maslov

Debra Maslov — Wed, 09 Dec 2015 19:35:42 +0000

Oh Maria, this essay was so beautiful (on several levels) that it moved me to tears! No one can put into words their feelings and observations the way you do. I hope that the Nextdoor community realizes how lucky they are to have you among them. What a treasure your first posting is – truly a bright Christmas gift. I could vividly feel what a disappointment your neighborhood tree-lighting ceremony turned out to be & what a sad opportunity was lost. Thank goodness for the delightful evening with your neighbor the night before. Yes, hopefully your wise & thoughtful words gently reminding others to honor your neighborhood’s history – and respect everyone equally – will be heard. I also want you to know that your Blue Wheelbarrow chalk drawing is amazing!! What a real talent you are!!