Last night, I was not having a good night and, as a result, I had trouble going to sleep. And, I kept reading about events happening in Paris, London, Russia, Iran, Germany, China, and in the USA. until I managed to work up a high state of anxiety and despair. And, somehow, when I read this poem, I calmed down. So, I am posting it here, in case you might need to calm your soul. And then this morning, I resolved to beat “death in life”. To live while I am alive, no matter what. In other words, let go. These are things that are beyond our control. Beyond my control, at least. I will do what I can. But, maybe the best some of us can do is to live life while we are alive. Many thanks to my friend who posted this piece on social media. She often knows just what to say in her postings. (I think.)
The Laughing Heart – by Charles Bukowski
your life is your life
don’t let it be clubbed into dank submission.
be on the watch.
there are ways out.
there is light somewhere.
it may not be much light but
it beats the darkness.
be on the watch.
the gods will offer you chances.
know them.
take them.
you can’t beat death but
you can beat death in life, sometimes.
and the more often you learn to do it,
the more light there will be.
your life is your life.
know it while you have it.
you are marvelous
the gods wait to delight
in you.
You might be saying to me, “But you are in Paris. ” Believe me, I cannot escape from my thoughts. And, my mind works overtime. I read this this morning on the Internet. It has been 43 years since I was 40. So, double everything! I am sharing it with you (with a few corrections by me).
“What are some warnings that should come with being over 40?
This is the age that starts mirroring your past, most recent and present lifestyle!
I have friends who have smoked for years. Its effects are clearly showing.
I have friends who have drunk alcohol frequently. Its effects are clearly showing.
I have friends who have used drugs often. Its effects are clearly showing.
I have friends who have followed an unhealthy lifestyle and eating habits. Its effects are clearly showing.
I also have friends who have followed a healthy lifestyle including eating healthy and exercising regularly. Its effects are clearly showing.
It is up to you how you live your life but remember that around 40 no makeup or spandex will hide your lifestyle.
Live wisely!
(by Peter T Mayer – I’m 41 and most of my friends are around 40 or above 40 years old so this fact I guess qualifies me to answer this question.)
Taking a knee,
Best, Jay
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Published by jjaywmac
Jay W. MacIntosh (born Janet Tallulah Jewell) is a retired attorney, actress, and writer from the United States, living in Paris, France. She is a member of the California Bar and selected to the 2018, 2019, 2020 Southern California Super Lawyers list. She holds a Master’s Degree in Drama from the University of Georgia and is a member of Phi Beta Kappa, Phi Kappa Phi, and Zodiac Scholastic Society. As an actress, she is a member of The Actors Studio, the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (ATAS), SAG-AFTRA, and ASCAP, performing in film and television in the United States and France. Her published works include Journal of Janet Tallulah, Volume 1, Journal of Janet Tallulah, Volume 2, The Origins of George Bernard Shaw’s Life Force Philosophy, Moments in Time, Capturing Beauty, JAYSPEAK on the Côte d’Azur, and Janet Tallulah.
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JAYSPEAK 
Thank you for this post. I have been distressed beyond measure.
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Oh, Debby, I have/am, too. Just put one foot in front of the other. At least for now. I love you. Janet
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Dearest Aunt Janet. You continue to amaze & delight me with your insightful wisdom. Even though you are sensitive, you ARE that lion. Roaring, keen awareness, adapting to your environment and SURVIVING beautifully. You never settle for less, but are willing to possess less in order to give more to your soul AND to others. I am honored to be “your niece” via Anna Beth. Much love always, Judy
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Thank you very much, Judy. It is nice to know that you read my post. I often don’t feel like a lion. But, I am doing it anyway. I am honored that you are my niece. Much love always to you. Janet
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