As you look back at the year 2022, what one word comes to your mind? What did you experience?
My one word is SAD. Though a sad year, it filled me with more love.
As I reflect on the past year, it is hard to remember anything before the month of June. The sudden and unexpected death of our son-in-law impacted me quite deeply. Jimmy was young, vibrant, always smiling, giving, positive, and loving. He was a specimen of perfect health. Yet, he died of a sudden massive heart attack.
My beloved Aunt Arleigh left this earth in her 90s. I first met her when I was 12 years old and knew I wanted to be just like her. She always smiled, laughed, and had wonderful advice for an immature teenager. She was an actress and worked at Capitol Records. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hf0T0IecP50
I said farewell to several of my cancer sisters. Each of these ladies impacted me in a special way: their laughter, enthusiasm, love, gratitude, spiritual beliefs, smiles, and their tears. I am all the more motivated to spread the word about any of the GYN cancers.
I have moved from sad to grateful. Though I miss each of these people, I reflect more on how blessed I am to have had them in my life.
KAREN INGALLS, AUTHOR, BLOGGER & SURVIVOR 
Hello, Karen. I’m so sorry that 2022 was such a sad and tough year for you. I’m also sorry for all the loss you’ve suffered. Hopefully, this year will treat you much better, my friend❣️Thanks again for reaching out to me. You’re an awesome person, and I wish you all the best.
LikeLike
Thank you, Vashti, for responding to my email and to this post. The year 2023 is starting out great and I am looking forward to a year of joy and peace. I wish those same things for yu.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s great! I’m so happy for you. Thank you very much.♥️
LikeLike
I am so sad to hear that, Karen. My prayers go out to you and them.
LikeLike
Thank you, Jacqui. I appreciate your thoughts and concern.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Karen, well said. There is an ancient Jewish Proverb that teaches a person passes away twice. The first, when they give up their last breath back to us and second, the last time their name is mentioned.
Stan Hamerski
LikeLike
Reading the proverb caused an undescribable sensation to flow through me. Thank you for sharing it.
LikeLike
Thank you for sharing, Karen.
LikeLike
You are most welcome.
LikeLiked by 1 person
😁
LikeLike
What a tough year for you and your family, Karen. I love how you brought it into this with gratitude for knowing them. Sending hugs xo
LikeLike
Your love and support mean a lot to me. Thank you.
LikeLike
A beautiful reflection, Karen. I love the word you moved to for 2023! We all have so much to be grateful for.
LikeLike
From sadness, I learned gratefulness. Yes, we all have so much to be grateful for. Thank you, Jan.
LikeLike
You really had an emotional year, Karen, but I love the way you ended your post. Gratitude for those we have known and crossed paths with will help them forever live in our hearts. This was a beautiful tribute to your son-in-law, your aunt, and your friends.
LikeLike
The opportunities to learn and become a better person are when we are experiencing “the valleys of life.” Thank you, Mae.
LikeLiked by 1 person