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Alegra Loewenstein's avatar

Also I don't think this sculpture is glorifying selflessness... I mean, just look at the lady.

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Steph Sprenger's avatar

I agree. I think the caption I read waaaay misinterpreted it. She's bent over with despair. So is her baby.

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Karen T. Smith's avatar

Yes yes yes! We need this series of essays like we need air and water, omg. Even over here in my “the kids are launching. We did it. We survived.” Era, it’s a crazy contrast, a crazy push pull, a crazy effort to be a whole human and a parent. Because, newsflash, they don’t become self-sufficient just because a calendar says they’ve hit 18 years old. And also, newsflash, I wouldn’t want that. Not at all. I am so happy to have these deep relationships with my now-adult children, but it’s not effortless work, and consciously finding ways to put my own needs on the agenda is a thing I continue to have to work at.

Let’s talk this week about figuring this out! Would love to figure out a way to collaborate and share the work. It’s such an important topic!

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Steph Sprenger's avatar

Yes, let's absolutely talk about this. I think there is so much to showcase on this topic and I bet we can create a beautiful, meaningful collaboration. ❤️

So grateful for your vision and inspiration!

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Bonnie Cleet's avatar

LOVE this! My inspiration song when I was deep in the pit post-separation was "Lose Yourself," by Eminem, particularly these lyrics: "Success is the only motherfucking option. Failure's not." I'll send you some more of my writing on this specific subject.

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Steph Sprenger's avatar

Yes!! My teenager adores that song, FYI, and so do I. ♥️

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Alegra Loewenstein's avatar

I find Eminem very inspiring

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Bonnie Cleet's avatar

Me, too. And yes—aside from the misogyny!

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Alegra Loewenstein's avatar

* besides all the misogyny

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Daphne Biener's avatar

You're awesome!

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Steph Sprenger's avatar

Thank you, my friend!

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Dana's avatar

All I have to say is “here, here!” And yes. Yes to ambivalence and rage and insecurity and regret and love.

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Steph Sprenger's avatar

You are my forever kindred spirit on this. 🫶

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Alegra Loewenstein's avatar

I have a couple essays I'd love for you to consider (neurodivergent family). But not sure what I'm missing as I don't see how to message you lol

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Steph Sprenger's avatar

Email them to me! steph.iz@hotmail.com

Thank you!

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