photo courtesy of Mary Denman |
We may never know the impact we’ve
had on others,
but that doesn’t mean it didn’t
happen.
In case you’re
wondering who’s writing this blog…
I’m Beth. Not
Elisabeth with an “s” (my preference) or even Elizabeth with a “z.” My parents thought my
maiden name, Miesse, was too complicated for that. Despite my desire to have a
longer, more formal identity, the shorter version is probably for the best,
since my married name, Saadati, sure isn’t any easier to spell or say.
Although it seems
impossible (how does time so quickly
slide by?), 25 years ago Komron and I said yes
to journeying together through life. Somehow, we ended up with the same result
on the Myers Briggs Personality Test, even though my kids will tell you we’re
opposite in more ways than they can list. Komron teaches, counsels, and helps
homeless men battle addictions. He sincerely cares. That’s something I respect.
The two teens—Christa,
17, and Josh, 14—who inhabit my home are far from perfect (I suppose the apple
doesn’t fall far from the tree, pardon the cliché) yet galaxies more wonderful
than mere words can describe. Both are guilty of infusing my life with a ridiculous
amount of laughter and joy. Their lives are a reminder to me of God’s faithful
presence, here, in the midst of life’s mess.
I live in
Greenville, South Carolina, but my northern roots run deep. (Ohio’s long, cold
winters, however, I have yet to miss.) Since I don’t start to warm up until temps
hit 80, I relish the South's sunny days. I like to spend time with family
and friends, listen to others’ stories, indulge in a Chicago-style
pizza or homemade blackberry pie, and, with shameful inconsistency, lace up my
Nikes for a long-distance run.
Since age 21, I’ve
taught high school in American public schools, private schools, and home-school
co-ops—in addition to one challenging and humbling summer overseas. I LOVE teenagers, and I like
all-things English, so the combination makes a beautiful mix. When I’m not
consumed with grading essays, brainstorming lessons, or tweaking curriculum, I
edit to help other writers tell their stories better. And, when I’m able to
disentangle myself from the clutches of procrastination, I try, with the help of a graduate-school creative-writing program and the encouragement of some faithful friends, to craft my own.
Because I believe there’s power in story. Even when it’s
bittersweet—as mine now is. In 2013, my effervescent firstborn daughter, Jenna,
ended her life without warning at age 14. Healing from the grief of Jenna’s
absence and the trauma of one dark night may take a lifetime. But I’m not
giving up. I’m choosing to fight…and share the message now engraved on my heart
and mind:
Reach out to those around
you.
Choose to live.
And, please, always stay.
Thank you, friend,
for being here with me today.
Beth, how can I connect with you personally?
ReplyDeleteThanks for reaching out. I apologize for my delayed reply. I would love to personally connect. There's a form on the sidebar where you can message me, or feel free to email me at bethsaadati02@gmail.com.
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