I am not one who thrives on controversy. I just want to go along to get along, which is why I steer clear of hot issues such as politics or religion. Unfortunately, every once in a while I say something in a blog that hits people wrong, and I end up getting censured for something that was nothing more than an offhand remark.
Because the current situation continues to bewilder me — the repercussions, the ramifications, the lies and erroneous projections that were used to cause irreparable harm to so many people — I’ve been voicing my concerns. I haven’t meant to offend anyone with my comments and questions and half-facetious remarks. I’ve just been trying to sort through all the conflicting information we’re presented with, to mention the concerns I have, and to write of the things I have been thinking about. I’ve come to no conclusions, have no strong opinions. I’m simply . . . wondering.
The comments left here on this blog have been thoughtful and show an understanding of my dilemma, but those left elsewhere have been hurtful, so I’m eschewing the whole matter today and going with a topic that no one can chastise me for.
Tulips.
So far, only a single tulip has bloomed in my yard, but what a beauty!
Although a whole field of tulips can be dramatic, It doesn’t take huge numbers to make an impact. A single blossom can be just as beautiful and important and meaningful.
Which is good, considering all I have at the moment is this one flower.
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Pat Bertram is the author of Grief: The Inside Story – A Guide to Surviving the Loss of a Loved One. “Grief: The Inside Story is perfect and that is not hyperbole! It is exactly what folk who are grieving need to read.” –Leesa Healy, RN, GDAS GDAT, Emotional/Mental Health Therapist & Educator.
Bertram's Blog 
April 11, 2020 at 3:34 pm
How dare you plant only one tulip, Pat! It’s all alone out there in your yard! I’M KIDDING!!!! People can be so ridiculous!!! Don’t let anyone offend or hurt you! Just remember you have a huge following of souls who love you and think you are very valuable!!! In truth, your one beautiful tulip temps you to look closer, does it not? It is truly one of a kind…like you! Brava for you both!!! BEAUTIFUL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
April 11, 2020 at 3:57 pm
Actually, I planted hundreds of bulbs. Either it’s still too cold for them or they took one look at where they had to live and went back underground. And thank you for your kind words. I needed them. I hope you are staying well.
April 11, 2020 at 6:41 pm
I’m glad you have at least 1 beautiful tulip at the moment. I hope you have many more. I, like you, wonder about all the mess in this old world. I watch very little news because of it. I just want to get along, is all. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion whether we agree or not. Keep up the good work!!
April 12, 2020 at 2:43 pm
Don’t let them get you down, Pat. I’ve just come to the conclusion that our blogs may end up being the best record that many of us leave behind for what this period in our lives is really all about. I see no reason not to mention our bewilderment, doubts, and any other such thoughts on our blogs. Name-calling is unfortunately all too common elsewhere, I agree. And I’m to the point of using my editorial-delete button wherever I have the power to eliminate that kind of thing from my posts, be they on Book Chase, Facebook, or wherever.
April 12, 2020 at 3:05 pm
You make a good point. It would be a shame not to have any record of feelings about this time. I might be wrong about the way we’re being herded and the long-term repercussions to our freedom, but still, my thoughts are as valid as the party lines. I considered removing the not-nice comments from Facebook, but didn’t think it would be sporting. From now on, though, I’ll do it. Deleting such comments will be good for my peace of mind. Thanks for the suggestion.