19 Comments

I'm glad you are taking care of yourself through all of this. It's OK to feel happy and sad, love and anger at the same time.

Not that knowing that will completely stop and feelings of guilt, but maybe it will create a little more acceptance that you are allowed to feel good even in the challenging times.

Wishing you moments of peace and the energy of love.

Expand full comment
author

Aww, thank you so much Sarah. I know this already, but it feels so nice to be validated and understood. Yes, when life is constantly reminding your about death and loss, it's important to live! Hugs!

Expand full comment

Thinking of you, and I'm sorry it's been so tough. Going to send this to my mom because she's in a similar situation it seems.

Expand full comment
author

Oh thank you Matt! And I'm so sorry about your mom too! I hope this can bring her some solace, and show that you are keeping her in your thoughts too.

Expand full comment
Jan 29Liked by Isabella Kung

Isabella feeling so much empathy for you. You may know I lost my father suddenly in late October and it was such a harrowing experience. Just keep taking care of yourself and your mom!

Expand full comment
author

Oh yes I remember you posting about it in your stories one time and I sent a short message with lots of emojis. I'm so sorry for your loss again and I'm sure your grief is still hitting hard, how can it not? I hope the pain will lessen over time and the memories will bring only warmth and fondness instead of pain. Hugs!

Expand full comment

Hugs, Isabella! I am thinking of you as all this unfairness swirls!!

I loved the video of you reading to your friend's baby! She was definitely engaged with your reading and the book! :) So, so sweet!

My friend Shira (who you probably already know from Storyteller Academy) will be at Big Sur this year! :) I know she's looking forward to it, too!

HUGS!

Expand full comment
author

Thank you so much for the hugs, Elayne! It is UNFAIR! My inner child want to stomp my feet and throw a tantrum about it, but adult us knows there is no such thing as fairness in our world.

Haha I actually don't know how engaged my friend' baby was. At 2 months, she probably can't even see color that well. But at least she likes me and feels safe with me <3

I'll keep an eye out for Shira!

Expand full comment

Oh Isabella, I’m sending you so much love and a giant hug. Your plate is full — some sweet things, some bitter. And it must be heavy to carry. You are amazing and I’m so sorry you are going through all this!

Expand full comment
author

Thank you Rachel! I love your hugs! Oh, how I wish my plate wasn't so full and I can come visit you in your new home. Just think of the exploring and creating we can do! In due time.....something to look forward to.

Expand full comment

That would be amazing! You are welcome any time — we’re currently making it pretty for when you get here 😉

Expand full comment

I'm so sorry, Isabella. I've been through a version of this, but my parents were only 3,000 miles away. It's hard. And like Cheryl, I have no advice, other than to hang in there. It sounds like your professional life is going well, at least. I hope you enjoy teaching the class at CCA. Sometimes that kind of diversion can be quite helpful. Sending hugs!

Expand full comment
author

Thank you so much Jilanne. Dealing with aging parents is hard no matter the distance, thanks for relating. It's true, work is a nice distraction and creating art is a wonderful escape - though right now I might have to "kill my babies" (I have to cut an illustration I'm in love with) and I'm trying to escape that by procrastinating 😅

Expand full comment
Jan 28Liked by Isabella Kung

I’ve been in your situation more times than I like to think about. I don’t have any sage advice, just hang in there as you will come out on the other side and the self-care is a good idea! Thanks for your kind comments for all the caregivers. I’ve been one a long time and really appreciated them!

Expand full comment
author

Oh Cheryl! Thank you for your kind words and understanding. That must have been such a difficult period of your life, I hope that is no longer takes priority (as sad as that thought may also be) and that you are living your life to the fullest!

Expand full comment

Sending you hugs dear Isabella! I know all too well how it feels to be so far from family xo

Expand full comment
author

Thank you Christine and hugs to you too. The weight of a life of as an immigrant is not easy to bare.

Expand full comment
Jan 28Liked by Isabella Kung

Sending good thoughts your way.

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, Jacob! I appreciate it <3

Expand full comment