Sjögren’s syndrome

In 2011, tennis star Venus Williams was diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome, a long-term autoimmune disease in which the moisture-producing glands of the body are affected. This results primarily in the development of a dry mouth and dry eyes.  Other symptoms can include dry skin, a chronic cough, vaginal dryness, numbness in the arms and legs, feeling tired, muscle and joint pains, and thyroid problems. Thankfully, Venus’ career did not come to an …

Which is Worse?

Getty's Image "Which is worse?" Annie asked Not being able to have children or having a child and then losing that child to an illness or to some tragedy?" "I think not being able to have children is worse," Robyn replied. Annie stared at her. "So, you would rather have a child and go through …

Imaginary? Illusions?

"I read a story recently about a man who when caught claimed that the devil made him do it. Instead of admitting that he was guilty and taking responsibility for his crime, he blames it on an imaginary, fictional character." "The devil isn't an imaginary, fictional character. He's real." "Says who?" "Says the Bible." "Men …

Liar

“End your relationship with James.” “Why, Mrs. Moriarty?” “He deserves to be happy.” “And he won’t be with me?” “Such impudence, believing that he could be happy with a woman whose mind is defective.” “I’ll ignore that asinine remark.” “You know I’m right.” “My illness doesn’t affect how James feels about me.” “It should.” “It …

One Afternoon Break

The first time he saw her, it was on Monday.  She was walking down the street.  In her hand was a red school satchel.  She looked at him as she walked past.  He was sitting on the rail outside of the building where he worked.  It was during his afternoon break which he usually took …

Comforted and Comforting

“The question is not whether you ever gave yourself to God, but whether you are His now” ― Elizabeth Prentiss, Stepping Heavenward Elizabeth Prentiss, née Elizabeth Payson, daughter of an American Congregational preacher, Edward Payson, well known for her hymn "More Love to Thee, O Christ" and the religious novel Stepping Heavenward was deeply impacted by …

Facing the Past

  Rachel was standing at the table with the display of the MacMurchie Collection when Angus walked in.  Heart pounding, she watched him.  He hadn't changed much.  He was still as handsome as ever.  She hadn't expected to run into him--at least not so soon.   Their eyes met. He walked over to her, his expression …

Well Worth It/Watcher #writephoto

I stand here, in the mist, waiting.  Waiting for you.  Every year, I come to the spot where we last parted company and where you promised me that you would be upon your return after the journey which called you away suddenly.   You stood before me, your eyes holding mine captive as you professed your …

Good Luck or God

I have heard of Talisman before but couldn't remember what it was until I searched its meaning on the Internet.  It is an object which people believe holds magical properties that bring good luck to the possessor, or that protect the possessor from evil or harm.  It can be wore around the neck or wrist. Jewish amulets were made up …

Not His Type

She stood at the window watching Byron Ellsworth walking on the grounds with Eliza Forrester.  They stopped under the window and talked.  He said something and Eliza threw back her head, her chestnut hair bouncing about her shoulders and laughed.  It was then that she looked up and saw Kiara.  She stopped laughing and said …