I have the kinds of loves
who love me when my other loves
are hurting
and I am collateral damage

When I rang them
in tears
voice breaking
in fear

I asked if they had spoons
to let me vent -
could they help
pick up my pieces?

And they told me
Yes!
Be there in 10 minutes

And when they arrived
they held me
while I cried
outside the crowded restaurant.

—sometimes this is what love looks like

#SmallMoments #SmallPoems #BeautifulTruth

https://writing.exchange/@damia/114760320617534881

Today’s Small Moment:
In the midst of losing my dad—and my brother just four months ago—I’ve been overwhelmed by how deeply simple kindness can matter. Friends, extended family, and even people I’ve never met have been a quiet anchor in these hardest days.

Grief has also shown me who steps forward and who stays silent. That truth stings, but it’s grounding. It reminds me to lean toward the people whose compassion shines without being asked.

This photograph came from a morning when I rushed up the Blue Ridge Parkway, hoping to reach Pine Spur Overlook before sunrise (several years ago). I arrived later than I planned, yet the light that waited there still found me—quiet and steady, much like the support that has carried me through these days. It might sound corny and cliché, but it’s true.

#SmallMoments #grief #healing #bereavement #community #kindness #support #photography #Virginia #grateful

Today’s #3GoodThings
I took this photo in autumn at the Peaks of Otter Lodge, looking out toward Sharp Top. The empty Adirondack chairs hit differently now—reminding me that Dad won’t be sitting beside me on photo outings anymore. But they also remind me of the good that’s still here, held in the memories and in the moments I can continue to create. This image will be added to my gallery soon.

1. I’m grateful for all the times Dad did sit with me—quiet, simple moments that shaped so much of who I am.
2. I’m grateful for the beauty that still shows up, even on the hard days—like the light on Sharp Top and the calm of the lake.
3. I’m grateful for this craft of photography, which gives me a way to keep feeling connected, even when life shifts in ways I never wanted.

#ThreeGoodThings #SmallMoments #BlueRidge #Virginia #mindfulness #ayearforart #NaturePhotography #grateful

This cross was my mom’s, and after she died, Dad wore it every single day for twenty-five years. When he was moved to palliative care, and it wasn’t on him, I was terrified it had been lost.

Not because it was valuable, but because it felt like a piece of both of them. Yesterday I found it in the bag of clothes we’d brought to the hospital when we still hoped he’d recover. The relief that washed over me was overwhelming.

The first good thing is that it’s safe.

The second is that it still feels like a link to both my parents.

The third is the reminder that love leaves traces we can hold onto, even when the people are gone.

Bonus good thing: taking this photo helped me slow down and breathe for a moment — something I really needed.

#3GoodThings #ThreeGoodThings #SmallMoments #GriefJourney
#MemoryKeeping #LifeAfterLoss

I'm heartbroken as my dad passed away late last night. But, after some thought, I can still find #3goodthings

1. Dad is at peace now and for that I am grateful.

2. I got to spend these last years with him under my roof, creating memories I’ll hold onto forever.

3. Love doesn’t end here—the love he gave continues to shape me, even in the hardest moments.

Bonus: I’m holding close the memory of our last real vacation together at what used to be my grandparent's cabin on Lake Superior — and this photo reminds me that even in grief, there is still beauty to look toward.

#threegoodthings #SmallMoments #AYearForArt #LakeSuperior #Photography #GriefJourney #NatureHeals