Brenda Mahler
Bio
Travel
Writing Lessons
Memoirs
Poetry
Books AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.
* Lockers Speak: Voices from America's Youth
* Understanding the Power Not Yet shares Kari’s story following a stroke at 33.
* Live a Satisfying Life By Doing it Doggy Style explains how humans can life to the fullest.
Stories (441/0)
Success in Life Requires Learning to Take One Step at a Time
When my daughter was 18 months old, I drafted a short poem while watching her experiment with walking. Fascinated by her unstable, unplanned movements, she pushed the limits of what she could accomplish and explored. Realizing I held my breath anticipating a misstep, she giggled while playing a game for which there existed no winner or loser. Each time she fell, she righted herself, smiled and extended her wobbly legs forth for more adventure.
By Brenda Mahler3 years ago in Motivation
Teach Responsibility
Anyone who has raised children knows homework challenges parents as much as students. I remember a time when Kari, our oldest daughter, shared excitement for a homework project -planning, and talking for days about the design for a school poster assignment. I remember thinking, “How wonderful, she is putting so much thought into this assignment” and offered encouragement for each new idea.
By Brenda Mahler3 years ago in Families
Cloud Gazing
This picture is by Kari Zieglmeier. Kari is 34 years old. She had a stroke 17 months ago leaving her right hand immobile. She has since taught herself to use her left hand to produce chalk art. This is one of her earliest pieces as she attempts to create clouds. Impressive!
By Brenda Mahler3 years ago in Poets
Ask Questions When Making Life Decisions
When the doctor ordered yet another Cat Scan, I think the sixth, we asked, “Why?” After hearing a rational explanation, we consented. The procedure happened and the results erased the dark roads that raced through our minds. The test answered questions just as the doctor assured us it would; no, not all of them, but we felt more informed.
By Brenda Mahler3 years ago in Motivation
Some Day Lily
I read a Facebook post from a stranger named Lily. Her strife following a stroke spoke to my heart. Her post shared stressful events from the prior evening. With her mobility restricted, life proved difficult. She lived alone and the daily challenges were wearing her down.
By Brenda Mahler3 years ago in Poets
Learn to Accept Yourself by Making Space for Others
As a child, Kari searched out kids who needed friends. She sat by the girl who ate alone at the lunch table. She was the girl who carried home strays, accepted others, people and animals, without limitations. Each time she opened her heart to give love, love was returned. Her acceptance of others demonstrates how to love.
By Brenda Mahler3 years ago in Motivation
Grandma Survived Hard Times with Tough Love
As a child, it was obvious that my dad loved and admired his mother. She struggled during the depression as a widow raising six children: five boys and a girl, which explains why she didn’t fit the stereotypical image of a grandma who cuddles and spoils her grandchildren. When we visited, the kids played outside and were expected to be seen and not heard — words that were more than an expression at Grandma’s house. I never doubted that she loved us, but hugs and kisses were not freely distributed.
By Brenda Mahler3 years ago in Families
Discover the Wild in the Wilderness
The days prior to Memorial Weekend typically are marked by excitement and anticipation. The holiday brings warmth, family, friends, and activities to our home in the woods. Since we will be sleeping in our cabin, we park our RV under a pine for anyone needing a bed. Prior to the arrival of the RV's, we spend the days planning who will contribute what food, where everyone will sleep or if we need to pitch a tent, while knowing all the plans may quickly change depending upon whether conditions, children’s behaviors, or a simple shift in our mood.
By Brenda Mahler3 years ago in Earth