Yes, Dixie, I have been remiss. So where in the world have I been the past six plus months you may wonder. On a journey, as is usually the case. Mostly checking out my home town, Chicago, in gypsy fashion. Life has a way of coming full circle and my return to the windy city is part of this circle. It has been twenty five years since I lived here but I never stopped claiming it as home. When asked, "where are you from?" the answer never changed no matter where I lived. Yes, I am from Chicago. It is in my blood and these past few months have reminded me how much history is here for me. There is a certain energy in this city that has excitement and allure. I find myself smiling as I walk the streets and make eye contact with so many diverse faces. The richness draws me. But for those of you who know me you know that though I have a place to land I won't stay put for long nor will I leave St. Joe. I seem to do best when on an adventure and exploring possibility. And also for those who know me you know that Chicago was probably not the only site these feet set foot these past few months.
So where else in the world was Maureen? Of course, Denver, you know has become an extension of my neighborhood but Europe beckoned. So it was a week on catamaran leading a retreat on the Ionian Sea followed by a week solo exploring Croatia. When traveling on bus along the Dalmation coast I couldn't stop thinking about this area just fifteen years ago. At the border crossing in Bosnia my thoughts went to the movie "Out of Sarajevo". When in Dubrovnik staying at a women's house in the old city I asked for her story. Though all looked so beautiful the horror of the war remained in the hearts of those who lived through the devastation. Though my travels take me to different lands with different people I am no longer as drawn to the differences but more to our similiarities.... our common human struggle for connection and understanding along with the many barriers that seem to get in the way.
I won't leave you so long next time.....
