My life would be simpler if I didn’t care—
If I gave little thought to national issues such as elections, justice for all, the disintegration of our environment, women’s reproductive rights.
My life would be simpler if I didn’t care about relationships—with my husband Jim, our adult children and grandchildren, friends.
But I do pay attention. I respond to my thoughts and concerns through writing.
Though born in Indiana, I grew up in Orlando, Florida. For twenty years Jim and I lived in the Chicago area. In 2008, to be closer to our children and grandchildren, we returned to the South, to North Carolina. So I’m either a Midwesterner influenced by my southern upbringing or a Southerner influenced by midwestern ways.
Friends think of me as having a positive outlook, but I can quickly create a list of negatives—things I DON’T do. I don’t cook. I don’t have a pet. I don’t serve on committees. I haven’t adjusted well to technology (not even the telephone).
I DO like sunshine and feel nostalgic for the days when we assumed it was safe to bake on a beach towel. I travel every chance I get. I’ve visited Europe, Africa, South America, and Asia. Twice, my husband was invited to teach a semester in Seoul, ROK. We both came to love Korea and its people, who taught us much about hospitality.
Finally, I treasure time spent with Jim, our children, and grandchildren. And with my friends.
Nancy Werking Poling 