14 Comments
User's avatar
Asha Sanaker's avatar

This is gorgeous, Martha. Thank you, Jan, for sharing.

Expand full comment
Martha Doran's avatar

Thanks so much Asha

Expand full comment
Jan Peppler's avatar

Martha, you so beautifully recount what was truly a profound experience of home on multiple levels. Coming home to where you grew up, coming home to your brother, and in both those things, coming home to yourself. Thank you for sharing 💛

Expand full comment
Martha Doran's avatar

You have such a way with words dear Buddy… so honored you asked me to share on your blog

Expand full comment
Susan Priano's avatar

Thank you for this wonderful essay your brotherly love and saying goodbye.

We come into life and go out the same ways but each of us brings a unique spirit and soul. Respecting your brother despite his struggles was touching. We should all have the grace to look upon each other not as less than but as one in spirit.

Expand full comment
Martha Doran's avatar

Thanks Susan… well put 😍

Expand full comment
Victoria Kr's avatar

What a wonderful story, Martha. You always had such an amazing way with words I always admired.

You might want to think about writing a novel. Your story warmed my heart. Thank you.

Expand full comment
Martha Doran's avatar

Oh Victoria… what a sweet and generous response👏💕

Expand full comment
Victoria Kr's avatar

You have internal light, Martha -a rare phenomenon among our contemporaries. You radiate only positive vibes and make people around you smile. I always admired it. Be well.

Expand full comment
Martha Doran's avatar

What a beautiful phrase Victoria ...comes at a most wonderful time for me to hear !

Expand full comment
Karen Grunst's avatar

Very moving and well-crafted post.

Expand full comment
Martha Doran's avatar

Thanks so much Karen...it was a treat to share!

Expand full comment
Susan Fusco-Fazio's avatar

Beautiful and moving- and yes-being present in what ever form it takes is so very important. Thank you for sharing your intimate journey’s end with your brother Gil. 🙏

Expand full comment
Martha Doran's avatar

So key..that "being present in what ever form it takes"...so aptly put and such a daily challenge /opportunity! thanks Susan

Expand full comment