22 February 2001 Norm, thank you very much for including me in your communication. I got word of some news of this about a week ago via my mom -- but didn't know whether you were still/currently connecting by e-mail -- so I sent an inquiry to your brother -- then, right afterwards, I got your very detailed message. I appreciate the thoroughness of your discussion, and will write you more soon. Meanwhile, my thoughts are with you. ------------ First, let me say to Nancy: Dear Cousin Nancy, I can only try to imagine what a terrible trial this is for you -- physically, emotionally, in every way. I wish I were closer to offer you more concrete support in the every-day kinds of ways that might feel, and be, more meaningful. Since unfortunately we are at such a geographic distance, for now I can only offer you my deepest prayers of support and feelings of empathy and love. Please know that I am thinking of you daily and -- for whatever it's worth -- sending you warm, vibrant, buoyant energies for your full recovery, as well as for strength and optimism through the challenging paths to recovery. If you should wish to have an attentive, respectful ear and heart to unburden yourself to, at any time, in any way, I would welcome your thoughts and feelings, of whatever nature. I hope to see you before too long, to embrace with gladness and gratitude. I realize I have not been asked, but I will offer you -- out of concern and sister-feeling -- the best counsel that comes from my own experiences of wrenching crisis. It is simple and full of effort at the same time: Listen openly, yet non-commitally, to all others around you. Consider carefully their advice, according to your own best lights. At the same time, listen most closely to your own inner voices. Consider the values and ways of being you value most about yourself -- your best self, as you conceive it to be (whether it or not that feels close at hand at the moment). If you can envision that much for yourself (which may take some time), then follow the promptings of your deepest inner wisdom, wherever that leads you. Take courage and strength from this process, insofar as you can really feel that your decisions flow from what feels right TO YOU. If so, all else will follow as they should. Maybe that is my own personal theosophy: that the Divine (however we personally know it) resides within each of us, if we allow ourselves to pay close attention and follow that light. So carry my love and well-wishing with you through all your days and nights. I will write again in a few days. We are going out of town this weekend, but I will be in touch again with you all after I return. much love, SP.