The Grip of Darkness - by Laurel D. Rund

I created this drawing several years ago.   It has always had something to say to me, but I wasn't ready for its message because it felt "dark."  Yesterday, I sat down and really looked at the image, explored how it made me feel and allowed these questions and answers to come forth.  

Your hold is tight, and I have fought your darkness throughout my life.
How do I befriend you, the very thing that threatens to extinguish my flame?
What lessons do you want me to learn so that you will loosen your grip?
Is it about loss and fear, about being abandoned?
I chose this life, so I must have wanted you to accompany me.
Perhaps your grip is meant to protect me from the depths.
When I die, will you journey through time alongside me, back to the stars?
Will you transform into a black hole, a cosmic presence that stays with me?
Are you my forever companion in the infinite universe?

As my soul contemplated these questions, a profound realization washed over it like a gentle breeze. The Grip of Darkness was not an adversary to be vanquished but a mentor, a guide through the intricate corridors of life. In its grip, my soul learned the art of tenacity, the beauty of courage, and the power of perseverance.

In choosing this life, I invited the Grip of Darkness to accompany me, understanding on a profound level that its presence is not a burden but a blessing. It becomes my shield in moments of despair, reminding me of the inherent strength and resilience that resides within my very core. I’ve learned to face my fears and insecurities, finding solace in the knowledge that even in the darkest moments, my inner light will prevail.

“Yes," my soul whispered "You embrace darkness not in an evil way, but as a guardian, a silent witness to your journey. Together you share your light, not to extinguish it, but to understand it, to illuminate the very essence of your being."

With a sigh as ancient as time itself, the Grip of Darkness responded, its voice echoing through the cosmos. "When you depart from this earthly realm, I will journey with you, back to the stars from whence you came. I shall become a black hole, a silent sentinel standing guard beside you, a companion in the infinite expanse of the universe."

The Grip of Darkness, often misunderstood, revealed itself as a teacher, a companion, and a friend. Its lessons, veiled in shadows, helped unravel the mysteries of my existence, guiding me in this final chapter of my life towards self-discovery and acceptance. 

The answer lies in the eternal connection we share with the universe. The darkness becomes a part of the cosmic dance, guiding us back to the celestial realms from whence we came.

In the tapestry of life, it has become a thread, weaving through my experiences and reminding me that in the depths of darkness, my light shines the brightest.

The Grip of Darkness by Laurel D. Rund 

November 8th, 2023

Celebrating My 78th Year: Embracing the Beauty Beneath My Birthday Suit

 

by Laurel Diane Rund

As I approach my 78th year, I stand at the intersection of time and wisdom, where the true essence of my being lies beneath the layers of years lived, experiences gained, and memories cherished. It's a remarkable journey that deserves to be celebrated, not only for the years I've accumulated but for the woman I am.

As I walk through the twilight of my years, I wear my wrinkles and scars like badges of honor. Each line, each mark, tells a tale of a life well-lived, a journey through the seasons of joy, sorrow, and everything in between. A story that continues to unfold, a reminder that, beneath the surface, the essence of a person is a rich tapestry woven with the threads of time, of experiences, memories, and an enduring spirit.

In a world often fixated on superficial appearances, there's something profoundly beautiful about the aging process. It's a reminder that life is a masterpiece in progress. Each wrinkle and age spot is a mark of the laughter and tears that have shaped my heart and soul.

The creases around my eyes are like chapters in a book, written in the language of smiles and laughter. They speak of the friendships forged, of shared moments that now shimmer like distant stars in the night sky. And the furrows on my forehead, bear witness to the challenges faced, the lessons learned, and the strength gained through the trials of life.

Beneath my aged skin lies the music of a heart that has known both the sweet symphony of love 's embrace and the melancholy notes of goodbye. It beats in rhythm with the passing of time, a testament to resilience, endurance, and the ever-present hope for tomorrow. 

The unique inner beauty which radiates from my soul deserves celebration.  It's the kindness I've shown, the love I've shared, and the wisdom I've gained. It's the way I've touched the lives of others, leaving a trail of warmth and inspiration wherever I go.

 

My birthday suit, far from being just the physical vessel that carries me through life, is a testament to my determination and endurance. It is the canvas upon which my life's masterpiece is painted.  I wear my birthday suit with pride, not just the one I was born in but the one that carries the imprints of my life's journey. I remember that I am a living testament to the beauty of resilience, the grace of aging, and the richness of my life.  I celebrate the laughter that still echoes in my heart, the dreams that continue to light my path, and the love that fills my days.

Let my inner light shine brightly and may my 78th year be a celebration of the unique person I am, both inside and out. Happy birthday to my beautiful soul!

I Am Stardust and Stardust is Me

 

As I sit here and reflect on my life, I can't help but feel a sense of wonder and awe. It's amazing to think that we are all made of stardust, the same stuff that makes up the stars and galaxies that we see in the night sky. It's a reminder that we are all connected, not just to each other but to the entire universe.

And yet, as much as we are made of stardust, we are also much more than that. We have an essence, a unique combination of traits and qualities that make us who we are. It's this essence that makes us individuals, with our own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It's what sets us apart from each other and gives us our own unique perspective on the world.

At the same time, this essence is also what connects us to each other and to the universe. We are all part of the same cosmic dance, moving and shifting together in ways that are both beautiful and mysterious. It's a reminder that we are all in this together, and that we all play a part in the grand scheme of things.

And when our time on this earth comes to an end, we return to stardust once again. Our physical bodies may be gone, but our essence lives on in the memories of those we leave behind, and in the universe itself. It's a comforting thought, knowing that we are part of something much bigger than ourselves, and that our essence will continue on in some way, shape, or form.

"We are travelers on a cosmic journey, stardust, swirling and dancing in the eddies and whirlpools of Infinity. Life is Eternal. We have stopped for a moment to encounter each other, to meet, to love, to share. This is a precious moment. It is a little parenthesis in Eternity.”     Paulo Coelho

As I continue to reflect on my life and my place in the universe, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder, am grateful for this gift of life, for the experiences I've had, and for the connections I've made with others. 

I am in awe of the beauty and mystery of the universe, and the way that we are all connected to each other and to the stardust that makes up everything around us.  With this is mind, I finally understand that We Are All One.

Laurel D. Rund

I am stardust, and stardust is me 

A unique expression, of the cosmic dance

A trillion particles, come together as One 

It radiates from me, with every breath I take

A source of energy, with light embedded

That will return to the stars and shine on for Eternity.