If I reflect on my life, I see a pattern. I have often, and in many different ways, created groups, programs and resources for people following in my footsteps. My operating system has been to try to make things — whatever those things are — better for others because those resources weren’t there for me.
For example, in the
1980s: I moved to a new community and struggled to make friends where everyone already seemed to know each other. A few years later a friend and I started a mom’s group which we called Ladies Time Out — before the term mom’s group was even used. You need a friend? You’re a stay-at-home mom? Come to Ladies Time Out.
1990s: I discovered quilt making in the 1980s. I had no classes and few books. I was determined to teach myself. Eventually, I started teaching quilting classes so others who wanted to learn didn’t have to do the same. Ta da…Ruth the quilting instructor was born.
2000s: After I became Suddenly Single, I went back to university as a mature (47!) student. A year or so in, two other older students and I started a Mature Student’s Club so those just arriving on campus wouldn’t feel as lost as we did.
And now, Suddenly Single Survival Guide — I am partnering with Bill on this project so that those of you who are clutching a coffee cup, tears streaming down your face, can know you have friendly hands reaching out to you. Bill can help you sort out the practical but frustrating and overwhelming financial impact of your loss and I’ll be there to help you figure out what you’re feeling and how to navigate the hurting heart part of all this.
