Once upon a time, I pinned my salvation on love. Not real love, I knew nothing of that, but romantic love, the idealized, magical version that offers passion, excitement, and escape. Love found outside of me that completes and validates me as worthy that conquers all obstacles, the kind that begins with a brave knight…

I know you’re hurting right now. First holidays are tough, but you’ll get through them. And despite your heartache, you’ll find that with each passing holiday, your enjoyment grows as your awareness expands. Meaning deepens, and every detail resonates with profound significance. Maybe it’s a feeling of obligation, like we need to enjoy the holidays…

I stepped off the bus, determined to bypass the liquor store between me and the noon AA meeting. A block later, I sat on a bench, opened a can of tomato juice, and added vodka. Then, holding my thumb over the open tab, I shook the can. I could almost taste it, nearly feel that…

“Well, good morning.” Don ran a hand through his side-swept gray hair, stepped aside, and waved me into his extended stay hotel room. “I didn’t know if you’d make it. I’m glad you did.” He poured me a cup of coffee and slid the cream and sugar my way. “How are you?” “Ready to try…

“Are you all right?” my younger brother, Brandon, asked, looking at me from the driver’s seat of his Civic after dragging me away from the last few revelers standing. His makeup was smeared, and his very large fake breasts were lopsided beneath his bright purple and black striped dress. https://lisatannert.substack.com/p/moonlight-on-troubled-water