Is there nowhere in an American house where one may be one’s self?
Edith Wharton
Next week we celebrate another Thanksgiving. Winter will soon be here and Christmas is not far behind. 2024 is racing to a close. I want to slow down the time and enjoy each moment.
This morning I put the duvet on the bed. One more concession to a chill in the air. I have imagined if I ignored the approaching winter it would go away. Will I ever stop trying to control life?
My writing wanders unrestrained through this piece. Although, you could be right in thinking some restraint is called for.
I have been wondering about personal libraries. What do they say about the people who keep them? Our bookshelves are almost floor to ceiling and take up much of the dining room wall. From my days in fashion there are volumes on style and designers. I collected Jackie Kennedy books beginning in the seventies. That was when I first began to admire her style and survival instinct. Many books about or set in Paris speak to my heritage and love of everything French. Tomes on art, writing, politics, and favorite fiction fill other shelves.
I enjoy looking at others libraries for hints to who they are. People’s books, if seen at all, are not always in plain view. Maybe a conscious decision to keep their lives private. I once had someone tell me they hadn’t heard of anything on my bookshelves. I wasn’t sure if that was a comment on my lack of discernment or theirs.
Aging with Grace 
4 responses to “Self Refection”
Let the words run with no restraint. My down comforter came out of it’s protective covering this week and onto the bed, but I’m sure where you are it’s really cold compared to here. I’ve had personal libraries in my past with shelves lined from floor to ceiling, but this little house doesn’t accommodate that, so there are stacks of books in every room. When I find someone who truly resonates, I’ll start a collection and have several books by Julia Cameron, but my book titles are all over the place, because my interests are widespread. You remind me of Jackie Kennedy. Someone has said that comment to me before and I’m pretty sure they didn’t stay long as a part of my life. 😂 The books on the shelves reflect our interests.
LikeLike
I can visualize your stacks of books through out the house. A testament to things that are meaningful to you. I can see Jackie’s determination and ability to get through it in your life. It’s one of the things I admire about you.❤️
LikeLiked by 1 person
Aw…You’re the sweetest. Thank you, lovely. You have my undying love and admiration in return. 💖
LikeLike
❤️
LikeLiked by 1 person