Thank you for hanging in there with me. I’m still recovering but getting a bit better every day! Just getting out of bed, showered and dressed is an accomplishment. I spend my days lounging around the house between naps. Being in the house for weeks can feel isolating. It is great to know that I’m not really alone.
During one of my lounging sessions, I caught the movie Moonstruck on TV. My favorite part is the last 20 minutes or so. If you haven’t seen it – SPOILER ALERT.
The movie centers around an Italian family. This final scene takes place first thing in the morning. The mother is in the kitchen cooking oatmeal and, one by one, people arrive – either from upstairs or through the front door. First the daughter (Loretta, played by Cher), then the brother of Loretta’s fiancé, followed by Loretta’s aunt and uncle, Loretta’s father, his father, and, finally, Loretta’s fiancé, each joining the crowd in the kitchen, until there are more people than chairs assembled around the table.
When I first watched this movie in the 1980’s, a coworker from a British family told me that she loved the movie but the ending was unrealistic: People don’t just show up at your doorstep! And why would the mom make so much oatmeal?
But for me, growing up in an Italian family, that scene was the most realistic scene in the movie. Friends and family are WELCOME to show up at your door, anytime. And of course there is always food on the stove, plenty for everyone.
As I watched this final scene last weekend, I realized how incredibly grateful I am to everyone who just shows up. Sometimes it is at my door, which helps to alleviate isolation and adds color and dimension to my day. Sometimes it is online, or through meals, or cards, or a myriad of other ways. You are so very welcome. And while I don’t always have something on the stove, I am happy to share whatever I have. Again, you are always welcome.
Love,
Marie
Adventures in Spiritual Living 
I know what you mean about the isolarion. I went through terrible anxiety last jan. I couldnt go out. I sat in bed terrified each day. When i tried to sleep my head was so full of anxiety i could hear voices shouting and saying stuff. I dont have any other mental health issues but being indoors robs you of your life. I took comfort from the jehovahs witnessess that came to my door. Im a catholic but in my eyes god sends his nearest messenger. Hang in there Marie youll soon be back on your feet. Xx
Thank you Anne – good description! And I laughed about welcoming the Jehovah’s Witnesses – I totally get that and what a great way to view it! Thanks also for the support!
Fun to read after having popped in on you so recently!
Sounds like your energy is returning,slowly but surely.
Yay!
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That scene totally reminds me of your family (and the food!… forget about it!…I’ll make you a sandwich ;-)). Thinking and praying for you and the rest of the “family”. Blessings sweet lady.
I love that movie and it totally reminds me of my family! It makes me miss Sunday dinners at my grandparents’ house. Much love to you Marie! I’m holding space for you from afar.
Hi Marie, That is my ALL TIME favorite movie! I think it resonated with me initially as I grew up in an Italian family, when life was simple. Neighbors were relatives so stopping in was normal. Lately though, I can relate more to Rose and Cosmo. I love when she says “I just want you to know no matter what you do, you’re gonna die, just like everybody else.” For me, that meant, just enjoy what you have, don’t go chasing rainbows, life is to short.
Love Ya
I LOVED that neighbors were relatives and they stopped in without a call or whatever. I also got a sense (from the photo of your house) that your house was the hub of the neighborhood kids as well. Love that!
I never viewed that switch from relating to Loretta to relating to that conversation between Rose and Cosmo, but now that you point it out – yes, that is awesome and I connect with it in a whole new way. So cool! Thank you!