Do you remember having a magic slate when you were a kid? You know, those cardboard tablets with a gray film over a waxy black background that you could draw and/or write on with a stylus. Then you lifted the film and everything was erased and you could start over.
I feel like my summer has had that gray film over it. The illness of a dear family member has colored my every waking moment. I wish I could lift the film and erase the events of the past six weeks. But life isn’t a magic slate. This is our new reality, and we are dealing with it one day at a time.
It has been a challenge for me to write during this time. I’ve had a hard time concentrating, and haven’t written anything I felt was worth sharing. But I’ve missed this community. So although this is a short slice, I just wanted to say hello to you all, and let you know I haven’t forgotten you. I hope you all have a good start to the school year.
Thank you to Stacey, Tara, Dana, Betsy, Anna, and Beth for this space for teachers and others to share their stories each Tuesday. Be sure to visit Two Writing Teachers to read more Slice of Life posts.
Reading to the Core 
Glad you found some time to come by. I hope you will feel the community gathering around you to offer comfort.
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I very well remember the tactile feel of and the sound of erasing the magic slate…and the little wrinkles in the film that developed. The plastic stylus, a red pen…I loved my magic slate.
Why is it so hard for us to write when we are in deep pain or grief? I liked this analogy you used…
Wishing you and your family strength and comfort.
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I’m so sorry to hear about your friend’s illness. I, too, remember those magic slates and appreciated the craft of your analogy while regretting the pain it expressed. Take care.
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I do remember loving that magic slate. So simple but powerful. What an image you created here with just a few words. I’m glad you found the energy to visit. Sending you prayers to help your loved one.
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Good to see you here. Sending hugs and prayers your way as you navigate this difficult time. Wishing you peace as you move forward one day at a time with your loved one.
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Minute by minute, hour by hour, day by day. Time marches on and with it the healing power and peace from your faith that will sustain you! Sometimes the weight will seem unbearable, but lean on us! That’s the best part of this community!
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You have been missed!!! Sending prayers to you and your family. I am so glad you wrote today. No words can make things better, but know that we are here for you!
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One step at a time is what you need to do right now. Writing and slicing will be here when you are ready, along with a strong support group. Sending prayers and hugs.
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I’m sorry to hear about your family’s tough time, Catherine, and think the Magic Slate is a perfect metaphor in these times for our life’s wishes. You show even now what a writer you are. Thoughts and prayers from me to you at this time, and for starting work too. We’ve missed you, and understand that your focus is elsewhere.
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I’m glad that you wrote…our family is also in the midst of pain also. It also is a difficult situation and I haven’t even been able to have moments to write. There are bits of joy, and I want to write about them also…but time and and exhaustion is ever present. I will pray for you. xo nanc
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