About ten days ago I was upset by an answerphone message, left on our phone by someone I was voluntarily helping, a message that showed such a callous disregard for my feelings it left me reeling, as if I had been punched in the face. I think I might have coped better with being punched, as then I would have seen it coming and had a chance to duck or at least brace myself for the impact.
I did not realize how emotionally bruised I was until last weekend when I sat down to continue editing Ellie’s story and I couldn’t work on it, my thoughts were all jumbled. I tried starting on a new short piece but I just felt empty, devoid of creativity. On Sunday morning I set off with a journal to sit in the wonderful gardens at Waterperry and watch the world go by; on a sunny summer Sunday there is always a diverse range of visitors to inspire scenarios.
Sat on the white bench under the Wisteria I scribbled down ideas as people drifted by; the more I scribbled the better I felt. I won’t pretend that it doesn’t hurt anymore, when you make someone a gift of your free time and they turn on you it leaves you feeling violated, but I’ve put it into perspective and regained control of my thoughts.
These point&shoot pictures were just to remind me of this therapeutic visit to a beautiful place; if you like them feel free to use them.
lynnerevettebutler 
You can heal yourself and writing, talking to yourself, is good. As my mother used to say, ‘You need time to get yourself towards yourself’.
Candy, your mother was quite right, there simply isn’t a quick fix for everything and in the rather frenetic 21st Century it is easy to overlook the healing power of some quiet time for reflection, time to get your head straight my mother would have called it. Nice blogging friends help too!
Time away from the everyday always seems to help put things in perspective for me as well. Lovely pictures, and I’m tempted to use them! If I do, I will credit you and link back to your blog. 🙂
Hi Kirsten,
Perhaps it’s easier to concentrate on the bigger picture when there is no distraction from the pile of ironing or the weeds in the flowerbeds and nobody is asking when lunch will be ready. My picture does not do justice to that Wisteria, it was a perfect setting to gather my thoughts. I always appreciate the support of your comments.
I’m sorry you were hurt and I hope your heart is healing. What a lovely place to write and reflect. Thanks for sharing the beautiful pictures…so peaceful.
Thank you Jill, your good wishes certainly help the healing process. There are several well-placed benches in the gardens at Waterperry giving the opportunity for solitude or conversation depending on your mood but when the Wisteria is flowering that is definitely my favourite seat.
I’m sorry that happened to you. People can be so thoughtless. But what a beautiful place to find solace and inspiration. I hope you don’t mind, I saved the arbor bench photo in my painting inspiration file. Hopefully will do a painting when time allows. Have very much enjoyed my visit with you. 🙂
Thank you for visiting my blog and leaving such pleasant comments. Waterperry is an inspirational place on many levels and I am delighted that you have saved the photo; please let me know if you find time to do a painting based on it. I enjoyed my visit to your blog too!