Comments for Karleen Koen — writing life

Comment on workshop by Kathleen

Kathleen — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 02:54:14 +0000

Karleen,
I come to read your blog and I am always astounded. The poem is…wonderful!
My writing mentor, also a poet, taught me over and over again that every word counts. How right you prove her to be.
Kathy

Comment on Psychic order by Vanessa

Vanessa — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 22:56:50 +0000

One day I was walking though the isles of the local Half Price Books as I do occassionally. Sometimes odd things happen as I stroll up and down perusing the literally thousands of books on the shelves. Sometimes I’m compelled to stop and pull one arbitrarily down and buy it without knowing anything about the book or its author; it’s as if the book reaches out and grabs me. This happened to me in July 2009 and the book was Through A Glass Darkly. I love historical fiction, but somehow I was unaware of this book prior to buying it. I read it all the way through the following weekend despite having to take care of two children under the age of six and a husband and I couldn’t put it down! I absolutely LOVED it! Where have I been that I didn’t know about you as an author? Your descriptions of the time period are so sumptious and your characters delightful even when I don’t think they are making the best choices. Since that fateful day I have read Now Face to Face and I’m now in the middle of reading Dark Angels. I can hardly wait for more!

Comment on what if by Amy

Amy — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 20:19:57 +0000

That is actually quite a scary thought, but one that comes to mind every now and then. I push it back out just as quickly because it IS too much to think about. No one wants to believe that their actions could have an affect on others – that’s a lot of responsibility.

Great post Karleen!

Comment on journal entry 11/14/00 by Kathleen

Kathleen — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 03:46:06 +0000

We stumble, we search, we despair. But there are others along the way to remind us that no human is perfect.

They say that, in growth, pain is optional, but that has never been true for me. I can say though, that always, within the deepest pain is the brightest jewel.

Comment on poetry by nadinefeldman

nadinefeldman — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:11:34 +0000

I read this post at just the right time, as I find myself grappling yet again with resentments that have emerged, in part because of some painful realities that it’s time for me to face. Thank you for sharing Baptism and your own thoughts, both of which point me to the path I need to take.

Comment on poetry by Kathleen

Kathleen — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 05:31:18 +0000

“This last slow dance we are in is immediate and huge. All else is nothing.”

Talk about poetry!

In my experience, if we are truly blessed, we are given the opportunity (insight?) to forgive.

Comment on small magi by Elizabeth

Elizabeth — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 01:37:31 +0000

I have enjoyed reading your books and your blog and am moved to respond as your post about your friend and her husband reminds me clearly of my grandmother and grandfather – how they have been with each other since they were teenagers and now my grandmother must struggle with him fading. And how I hope she takes comfort in the small beauties of life and in her faith.

Thank you for your beautiful stories.

Comment on small magi by Kathleen

Kathleen — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:44:10 +0000

James Mitchener wrote “I love the swirl and swing of words as they tangle with human emotions.”

I just love the way you write, Karleen. And, how could we endure if it wasn’t for those magical moments of catching the color.

Kathleen

Comment on spaces by Pam

Pam — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 04:44:48 +0000

Life is so bittersweet. As you have stated in your post, the losses we must endure and hardships of our friends and loved ones can bring us all down and take its toll. Without the strength and hope our faith brings us, it is unbearable or so it seems some days. These are the days our faith is challenged by the very fear and loss our lives bring to us… we see it much clearer now, especially as we grow older. What you say is true. Nothing is guaranteed in this life, and nothing will last forever. Nothing but the memories of the good times, but you cannot forget the hope of things to come. New life, new friends, good times yet to come. Eternal spring and all its glory. It makes you whole again. Be strong in your faith and know that there will be something to rejoice about each day. God’s Blessings on you!

Comment on spaces by Kathleen

Kathleen — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 04:45:19 +0000

I have been exactly where you are…perhaps not exactly, but in a very similar place. Somehow we pass through, but until it does, I offer a prayer in your name.

I have been a fan of your writing for years and tonight when I checked in to read your blog, it touched me so, that I at least wanted to extend a warm hug.

Kathleen