updated: Prayers or whatever you personally call them
I am republishing this post because I need your prayers or kind thoughts or general positive energy sent our way. I believe in stardust and molecules and sparks of energy and I draw tremendous strength when I can feel you like electricity in my mind. I hate not giving details in return for your graciousness but it is critical to me that I protect the privacy of my loved ones. My husband, children and I continue to be in good health. We set out for a fun vacation on Tuesday afternoon but nineteen hours into our drive we had to stop to see to the critical care of one of our party. We are here in limbo for the foreseeable future.
I can’t tell you how much it helps to know that I can send out this bat light and you, you out there, you can hear me and feel me and you answer with your heart. My family reads this space and they can feel your hearts, too.
With much, much gratitude,
Maggie
____
We think we’re alone in this world but when I slide my hands from the sweaty underbellies of my knees and rest them, nails chewed to the quick, on the slot lever and pull, you people deliver triple sevens every time. I try not to crouch upon too many bar stools because I’d never want to steal these winnings from the purses of others, even though my gut says there’s plenty of wealth to go around. There is no sound sweeter than this cosmic clinking.
***
I pray.
***
I’m fine. My daughters and my husband are just fine. The rest is not mine to tell. In a way I’m sorry I ever said I was leaving because it makes my abrupt staying so obvious. In another way I’m grateful for yet another glimpse of the power of this space, and the way you all make me feel like I matter, like I am matter and stardust and scorching white heat, not icy rock and ink-black vacuum dust.
Am I allowed to ask for your prayers and/or well-wishes without going into detail? It feels like a sinner thief’s wish but it’s all I’ve got right now. That, and gratitude.
Thank you for being here, right here. Thank you.
magpie says:
Thinking good thoughts for you and yours. Of course.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:17 pm
Crystal D says:
Nothing else even needs to be said Maggie. Prayers and hugs.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:18 pm
pgoodness says:
Of course you can ask. If it’s important to you, it’s important to us.
Glad you and yours are ok though. Good thoughts coming at you!
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:18 pm
Chris says:
Of course you’re allowed to ask for prayers without detailing why. Prayers and all the best to you.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:19 pm
slouchy says:
many xx’s and more oo’s
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:20 pm
ZenMom says:
Sending positive thoughts your way.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:21 pm
noteverstill says:
We don’t need to know why you ask. I hope it all works out.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:21 pm
debra says:
Whatever you need, just ask. Sending positive energy, hugs, and prayers your way.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:21 pm
Scary Mommy says:
I’m not a praying person, but I’m sending you the best of thoughts, always. And your writing is insanely beautiful. Always.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:22 pm
Adventures In Babywearing says:
Of course. Where I come from we call those unspoken requests and they count just the same. Maybe more.
Love,
steph
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:22 pm
Lisa @ Unfiltered Insanity says:
We don’t need to know what we’re praying for to pray. The One who hears and answers prayer is in full knowledge of your needs.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:23 pm
Lesley says:
Miss Maggie, you are ALWAYS allowed to ask for any kind of love/help/prayers you may need and never go into any detail if that’s what you feel like. Because when these things are given, they should be done so freely and never with any kind of requirements or restrictions. That’s what unconditional love is all about! (Glad to know you guys are all okay.)
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:23 pm
pamela ~ the dayton time says:
You matter. Hang in there.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:24 pm
paige says:
Of course you can ask for generic prayers. There are lots of kinds of faith and believing that you ask for a good enough reason is one of them
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:24 pm
Kat says:
Maggie, so glad everyone is ok. No need to share the details…just glad.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:24 pm
Kay says:
You can ask for whatever it is that you need – and take some comfort in knowing that there are plenty here willing to give it.
Prayers being sent your way – for whatever it is that you need to get you through whatever it is that’s going on in your life.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:25 pm
muskrat says:
Understandable that you don’t want to give away your taking plutonium from the Libyans to fuel your DeLorean and being afraid of their reaction. I won’t tell.
Just in case it’s something else this time, I will refrain from calling God “collect” this time.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:25 pm
daysgoby says:
All best to you and yours, sweetheart.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:26 pm
Marty says:
Sending angels to sleep on your pillow.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:27 pm
Fran says:
No specifics required. God knows what is needed (we don’t need to know). When we don’t know what to pray for, the Spirit intercedes.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:27 pm
quin browne says:
i’m puzzled, but, i’m puzzled when presented with all the facts.
i’d never make it as a detective.
wishing you well is easy peasy, maggie.
as is wishing you the best.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:27 pm
Yo is Me says:
you always have my thoughts and prayers and whatevers. thinking of you, sending you good vibes with strong arms.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:28 pm
LPC says:
Mystified but sending thoughts.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:36 pm
Maria says:
You’ve got mine.
I love you.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:37 pm
mariah says:
Glad you all are OK, I hope that whatever it is…it will end up ok. Yes, you have our prayers.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:38 pm
Jill says:
For you? Anything. Anytime.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:40 pm
Marinka says:
Yes, but only if you give me a dollar.
***
Of course.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:52 pm
amy2boys says:
Of course, and prayers happily coming your way.
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:02 pm
Mr Lady says:
I’d be here if you needed a helping hand with taking a particularly grueling dump. Just sayin’.
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:03 pm
racheld says:
All yours, every minute.
And the same Green Silences and Solitude where you are, when you need them.
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:12 pm
Mojo,NC,USA says:
Maggie, you know whatever I have to give is yours, sis. No explanation required.
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:13 pm
jacque says:
you got it.
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:15 pm
Sprite's Keeper says:
Prayers coming right up!
(Glad you’re okay though.)
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:15 pm
Sugarplum's Mom says:
sending you wishes for all the hope and peace you need.
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:17 pm
Karen says:
Sending prayers from Australia!
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:20 pm
Sunny says:
You are in my thoughts and prayers *hug*
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:26 pm
Jennifer says:
You’re allowed! Sending positive thoughts–I hope all is well!
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:44 pm
Kori says:
Sometimes it is all you can ask for, and all we can give you-thoughts and prayers for peace and strength, and details? Nobody needs to know in order to pray for all of you.
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:45 pm
Vicky says:
Yep, allowed. Hoping you really do know we’ll pray for whatever needs praying over. Sending up prayers and wishes for wellness. Be well Maggie.
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:56 pm
jen says:
no explanations necessary … we all need good wishes sent now and then. sending them your way.
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:56 pm
Sandra says:
Much love to you and yours, Maggie. I’ll be praying, too. xo
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:56 pm
Francesca says:
Thinking of you and sending good thoughts and prayers.
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:58 pm
Chris says:
There’s always more where that came from.
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:59 pm
Heather says:
Whatever you need.
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:10 pm
flutter says:
thanks for giving us a reason to be here
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:34 pm
Braja says:
Always here….
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:50 pm
Lee of MWOB says:
I’m catching up over here and after starting to hate you for knowing about that magical unplugged place with those oh-my-God-of-course-there-is-a-God photographs, I read this.
And of course thoughts and prayers are with you.
August 3rd, 2009 at 10:10 pm
krista says:
ask and ye shall receive. seriously, i’ll send good wishes to anyone who needs them without question.
August 3rd, 2009 at 10:32 pm
Veronica says:
Sending them all your way. xx
August 4th, 2009 at 1:39 am
Elisa says:
Our thoughts are with you whenever you need them Maggie, whether you ask for them or not – an you sure don’t have to explain.
Whatever it is, I hope it sorts itself out and you come out stronger, once again. Love you!
August 4th, 2009 at 1:40 am
Angela says:
Hope all is well! Saying a prayer…
August 4th, 2009 at 3:31 am
Amy the Bitchin Wife says:
Yo give so much to us every time you write a post…. Ask you shall receive prayers, thoughts, chants, and meditations.
xoxo
August 4th, 2009 at 4:41 am
Amy the Bitchin Wife says:
You give so much to us every time you write a post…. Ask you shall receive prayers, thoughts, chants, and meditations.
xoxo
August 4th, 2009 at 4:41 am
Jay Schryer says:
You have mine. All that you need, and more: My prayers and thoughts and positive energy for you.
August 4th, 2009 at 5:36 am
Kay Pelzek says:
Maggie,
Your readers are so remarkable. They know you want prayers, they will pray. I am praying with you also.
August 4th, 2009 at 6:15 am
JD at I Do Things says:
Say no more. Prayers, good vibes, good thoughts, good wishes. All are on the way, with a powerful force.
August 4th, 2009 at 6:18 am
AnnetteK says:
No explanations needed at all. Sending prayers, hugs, and good thoughts for you and yours.
August 4th, 2009 at 6:33 am
Kat says:
You can ask for whatever you need. Those who care will deliver to the best of their ability, regardless of the reason.
{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}} Sending loads of good thoughts your way.
August 4th, 2009 at 7:02 am
MoxieMamaKC says:
Happy, good, healing thoughts and prayers for you and yours!
August 4th, 2009 at 7:03 am
MK says:
Caught this quick on the twitterberry, and you know – me and my kiddo added you to our prayers last night. He said “can I say Dammit?” I said yes, as long as we’re praying about Maggie.
Peace, girl.
August 4th, 2009 at 7:24 am
sizzle says:
Praying.
August 4th, 2009 at 7:51 am
Liz says:
Sure you’re allowed. Back in high school in church youth group, we used to share prayer requests, but you were always allowed to ask for prayer for and “unspoken” need. “Unspoken” was all you had to say, and that was enough.
August 4th, 2009 at 8:29 am
Dory says:
Bless you, Maggie.
August 4th, 2009 at 9:19 am
racheld says:
Last night, in the beginnings of a tremendous thunderstorm, I began to mention you in my prayers, and one thought emerged: Thank you Lord, that whatever happened, whatever it means in the scheme of things and to Maggie personally –thank you that she and her family were not halfway on their journey, and far from home.
August 4th, 2009 at 9:31 am
Jennifer H says:
Glad everything is okay, or will be, and add my good thought to all the others, please.
But, dude? I’m mentally taking that trip in your place. Need, need, need some time like that. Not, not, not getting it anytime soon.
August 4th, 2009 at 9:47 am
Jennifer H says:
Uh, good thoughtS. Plural. Multitudes of them.
August 4th, 2009 at 9:51 am
Joy says:
Sending warm thoughts and encouragement to you and whomever else wants/needs it!
August 4th, 2009 at 10:34 am
Xbox4NappyRash says:
I think it’s ok to call them prayers even if you don’t really pray.
Anyway, I hope this passes over you and everyone comes out unscathed, I really do.
August 4th, 2009 at 10:54 am
Colleen - Mommy Always Wins says:
Hope you’re doing alright – hugs and prayers to you…
August 4th, 2009 at 11:02 am
Lil says:
Love and good thoughts/karma/etc to you and yours.
August 4th, 2009 at 11:26 am
Ann says:
It’s true what Amy said. Even in your neediest hour, you give us all…grace.
August 4th, 2009 at 1:00 pm
maggie, dammit says:
Thank you all SO SO SO SO much. Your kindness and support blows me away every time. This is my favorite part about the Internet, but you knew that.
Things are greatly improved, and I have no doubt some of that had to do with all of your positive energy. We are hitting the road after all and it could not come at a better time.
Thank you. Truly.
August 4th, 2009 at 1:08 pm
Neil says:
Enjoy your trip. I hope your mind is more at ease.
August 4th, 2009 at 1:40 pm
Headless Mom says:
I will pray for you, the elusive Maggie, Dammit.
August 4th, 2009 at 2:55 pm
Issa says:
Of course you are. Always. Will be thinking good thoughts your way. Hugs.
August 4th, 2009 at 3:29 pm
Aunt Becky says:
Praying for you love. Won’t stop.
August 4th, 2009 at 3:53 pm
Jewels says:
Of course you are! Thinking of you and hoping whatever is going on gets better.
August 4th, 2009 at 6:48 pm
starrlife says:
Curve ball, knuckle ball- you throw it we’ll catch it! Glad all is getting better and you weathered the storm.
August 5th, 2009 at 12:27 am
Kelley @ Magnetoboldtoo says:
you know I am always here for you babe. Just a mouse click away.
Remember when all there are sleeping it is the middle of the day here. And I am here.
August 5th, 2009 at 11:27 pm
Postmarc says:
Yep. What they all said and more.
August 6th, 2009 at 8:18 am
Madge says:
prayers and hugs to you….
August 6th, 2009 at 10:56 am
Sugar Jones says:
In our night time prayers, my children and I pray for “all our friends and family.” To me, you are both. Yes, you have our prayers. Whatever it is, Maggie… love to you.
August 6th, 2009 at 4:15 pm
Karen MEG says:
Maggie, still thinking of you and your family, still sending prayers and virtual hugs…
August 7th, 2009 at 6:55 am
kris says:
Sending all I’ve got, sweet one.
August 7th, 2009 at 7:02 am
tracey says:
Whatever the issues are, I hope things go smoothly…
August 7th, 2009 at 7:58 am
nic @mybottlesup says:
you’re in my thoughts sweet love… constantly. wishing you safe travels and loving family time.
August 7th, 2009 at 8:02 am
Aunt Kay says:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in all things, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Deut.
It’s hard not to be anxious, but we know the power of prayer, we’ve seen it before, we need it again. I will not stop praying until you are ALL home safe and healthy.
August 7th, 2009 at 9:07 am
velocibadgergirl says:
Sending good and healing thoughts!
August 7th, 2009 at 9:32 am
mommymae says:
thinking of you all.
August 7th, 2009 at 9:48 am
CharmingBitch says:
You are powerful & strong & a worthy opponent for any and all adversity; you and yours will make it through this and all you need is the strength you have and the strength on loan from all who care about you. Chin up, momma. You have made it through worse without a scratch.
August 7th, 2009 at 9:58 am
The Introvert says:
Even though I don’t know the situation, I know God will know what I’m referring to when I pray for you. Because He’s right there.
August 7th, 2009 at 10:03 am
Xbox4NappyRash says:
As always, my best.
August 7th, 2009 at 10:12 am
witchypoo says:
Heartsong being beamed to you and yours.
There is always enough to go around.
August 7th, 2009 at 10:15 am
Fran says:
You and yours are lifted in prayer. Prayers for healing, peace, & safe travels. Prayers for God’s mercy and grace to be with you.
August 7th, 2009 at 10:36 am
Margaret (Nanny Goats) says:
Here and thinking of you, Maggie.
August 7th, 2009 at 10:38 am
Nickie (@nsmith729) says:
Sending prayers, well wishes, love, thoughts, and strength your way. *hugs*
August 7th, 2009 at 10:48 am
Jennifer says:
I’m so sorry there are troubles on your tip. Sending positive thoughts that everyone involved will be better soon!!
August 7th, 2009 at 11:18 am
Nina says:
I am sorry for whatever it is. Sending healing thoughts and good wishes your way.
x
August 7th, 2009 at 12:48 pm
racheld says:
I was wrong—you WERE far from home, but still in this invincible cocoon—strong as steel, soft as love.
August 7th, 2009 at 1:43 pm
Ann says:
I wish your pain away I wish your pain away I wish your pain away.
Let us hold the hope and wish your pain away.
August 7th, 2009 at 2:11 pm
Francesca says:
hugs, prayers and love to you and your family
August 7th, 2009 at 2:18 pm
Renee aka @cutiebootycakes says:
Prayers to you, your family and loved one.
August 7th, 2009 at 2:37 pm
Jewels says:
Thinking of you!!!!
August 7th, 2009 at 3:01 pm
Momo Fali says:
Prayers are coming your way.
August 7th, 2009 at 4:32 pm
Genevieve says:
Sending you positive energy, strength, hope and peace.
August 7th, 2009 at 4:35 pm
Cheryl says:
Lots of love, prayers, light & general healing coming your way. I’m just so sorry you’re having to experience this when you should have been having a nice vacation. XOXOXO
August 7th, 2009 at 4:50 pm
Missives From Suburbia says:
I’m worried about you all, despite your assurances. Trust that you’re in our thoughts and prayers over here.
August 7th, 2009 at 4:54 pm
Susan says:
Sending prayers, hugs, and every positive energy to you and yours. Be safe.
August 7th, 2009 at 5:12 pm
Belle says:
My prayers go out to you and your family. Remain strong chiqa!
August 7th, 2009 at 5:14 pm
mamatulip says:
Oh Maggie, I’m worried. And sending positive vibrations to you and yours.
August 7th, 2009 at 5:21 pm
Emma says:
Whatever it is – thinking good, good thoughts and shipping them your way…
August 7th, 2009 at 5:26 pm
Robin says:
Sending good thoughts and energy your way, Maggie.
August 7th, 2009 at 5:46 pm
Alison Veres says:
I wish you strength and peace, and the ability to share them with the ones who need it.
Come to think of it, we all need it.
While I’m here, I think I’m going to wish my own self some strength and peace.
And I like the internet for the same reason you do.
Communication. Connection. It’s a beautiful thing.
August 7th, 2009 at 6:14 pm
Dawn says:
I am right. here.
August 7th, 2009 at 6:41 pm
Mr. Chuck says:
Hey Maggie,
Thinking of you guys a lot hope all gets better I know this is not easy but with prayer and good thoughts you can get through anything! All my Love and positive energy from across the world to you and the Family
Love You Guys,
-C-
August 7th, 2009 at 8:04 pm
Lea says:
Love love love love you.
August 7th, 2009 at 8:09 pm
Sandi says:
I feel like I am always a day late and dollar short, but I here now and I am praying with you and for you. HUGE HUGS! and if you need anything, I am an email away.
August 7th, 2009 at 9:01 pm
qt says:
Positive thoughts your way, Maggie.
August 7th, 2009 at 9:12 pm
Cassandra Rae says:
This is my first time to your blog and I just sent you some warm, fuzzies (one of my personal forms of prayer :~) Prayer is so cool because it gives you something to do, to contribute, when it feels like there’s nothing else you can do.
August 7th, 2009 at 10:27 pm
tiff says:
Thinking of you and your family.
August 8th, 2009 at 5:44 am
Elisa says:
After the update, I now see it’s a fairly serious health issue. I don’t pray, but my thoughts and good vibes are with you, Maggie, absolutely.
Sending you a huge hug, as well. Keep strong sweetie, I wish I could be there to help in any way but please know I’m thinking of you and your loved ones.
August 8th, 2009 at 7:04 am
Mrs4444 says:
Following you on Twitter and saying prayers for you..
August 8th, 2009 at 7:18 am
Fragrant Liar says:
Sending warm and healing light your way, whatever the reason you need it.
August 8th, 2009 at 9:33 am
Debbie in Memphis says:
Sending love, hugs, love and prayers that whatever is needed will be provided.
August 8th, 2009 at 11:34 am
quin browne says:
i join the gazillion others who send you light, love and prayers.
August 8th, 2009 at 5:20 pm
Jennifer says:
Continuing to pray for your loved one. For comfort and strength for them. For courage. For wisdom, discernment, and insight from the people caring for your loved one. That they might be careful with your family and the information they share, respectful, too. For strength for your husband and children. For double the strength for you. For endurance for your family. For hope, for joy, for bonding together. Thank you for sharing what you can, and for allowing us to pray and to send positive thoughts and love and light to you.
August 8th, 2009 at 7:18 pm
beth says:
prayers, thoughts….whatever it takes, I’m sending it your way !
August 8th, 2009 at 8:10 pm
JennyMac says:
Prayers for you!
August 9th, 2009 at 4:58 am
Amanda says:
You are always in my thoughts. Always.
August 9th, 2009 at 7:11 am
Sharon says:
When you ask, it becomes our honor and privilege to pray for your needs. Thank you.
August 9th, 2009 at 6:47 pm
Okay, Fine, Dammit » Big Sky Montana Goodbye says:
[...] Trauma, at first, is a wet wool blanket on the brain. You lie still, unable to move, and give in completely to your body’s most basic functions. You can’t find your words but you can walk a confident path through the snake-like hospital labyrinth. You want to weep over simple arithmetic, but you can successfully maneuver your children through their bed time routines. Nothing is of your own volition, but you don’t resent the loss of control; you simply move forward where you can. [...]
August 12th, 2009 at 8:32 pm
mikesgateway says:
Incredible talent. I just found you on twitter…those who have known suffering and found peace in its midst seem to have a connection that can’t be manufactured in a coffeshop, a church (although I’m a believer) or any other form of artificial environment where we feel compelled to play nice with others, rather people who have known trauma and survived limp gracefully through life with dignity to speak truth loudly into others’ lives, hearts and ears. It is this talent you have found to tell the truth and you put it together so well that I do hope that you continue on with this call on your life of wounded redemption.
August 13th, 2009 at 1:10 pm
Annie Anderson says:
Hey Maggie, a little late . . . but, you got it.
August 16th, 2009 at 5:47 pm