20 Comments
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Meredith Rice's avatar

Hi Leslie. I loved your post. I’m commenting partly because you asked me to and partly because commenting makes me uncomfortable. I am one of those people who keeps my life private, no posting, no sharing. I’ve always thought it was more authentic that way. But I’ve realized recently that some of that is carefully curated silence that also speaks volumes, as you have said. This is my tiny little step one to opening up a little and seeing how this feels. Hope you are well. Keep sharing, please, and I’ll try to do the same ❤️

The Preferred Edit's avatar

This means a lot coming from you. I’ve known you a lifetime, and you’ve always been one of the most thoughtful, intelligent people I know.

When you speak, people listen. I’m really glad you took that first step… and I’m really glad you’re here.

Kimberly Vogelsang's avatar

Like a breath of fresh air! Thank you for sharing Leslie. Your words are inspiring.

The Preferred Edit's avatar

Welcome! I am so glad you're here!

Matthew Pollzzie's avatar

When traveling I bounce back and forth between packing cubes and vac seal bags. I’m amazed at how much space I save in my luggage when using the vac seal bags. This saved space leaves me extra room for any special mementos I collect while on my travels. 🥰

The Preferred Edit's avatar

Welcome back my friend. Love having you here.

Delia Perry's avatar

Leslie, truly appreciate your words of wisdom and honesty. I can relate so much to what you have described in this piece. The teeter totter, the packing cubes…..things I see within myself so much these days and I quite honestly am growing tired of. It is time to take the lid off for sure! Keep writing my friend. I am a huge fan and so look forward to reading each week.❤️😘

The Preferred Edit's avatar

I miss you my friend. You should jump into the Substack world. You have so much WISDOM to share! Hundreds of podcasts later... you are a wealth if interesting stories. I would love to follow you.

Delia Perry's avatar

You are so kind and thank you so much for that invitation. It is something definitely worth serious consideration. I find myself gravitating towards this platform more and more and I absolutely look forward to reading your posts. Keep sharing. I have no doubt your words are resonating with so many. I know they certainly do with me. 💗

David Legus's avatar

Love the packing cube imagery and can totally relate. And as a newer adoptee, I can say that they are definitely a game changer.

The Preferred Edit's avatar

He says he's a ball. He rolls like a square.

Emily Hurst's avatar

Thank you for your thoughtful perspective & reflections. Your honesty & vulnerability are refreshing & thought provoking. I’m always happy to see when a new edit is posted.

The Preferred Edit's avatar

Always glad to see your name pop up here. XOXO

The Well-Planned Life's avatar

I think it’s natural to hold back when we write. Maybe it’s fear, vulnerability, or simply not wanting to face the truth. So many times, the thing we don’t say, is what makes the piece more meaningful.

I believe, when we let our guard down, our writing becomes more relatable. More human. Those are the pieces, that keep me coming back.

Enjoy your visit with Elise ❤️

The Preferred Edit's avatar

Thank you! And don’t hold back. Agree… those articles become the candy we crave.

Sasha Brown-Worsham's avatar

I’m working on an essay that mentions Taylor as well! Funny how she inspired confession and truth in writing. I’ve always pretended not to be a fan while secretly loving her music. Lots to unpack there. No cubes! Anyway great essay. Lots of truth.

The Preferred Edit's avatar

Who would have thought she would be the wise save for Substack writers too. Time to let it rip!

Jen  Coleman's avatar

I dont love packing cubes except for socks and undies🩲🧦 💗

The Preferred Edit's avatar

I have a whole bin of them. Neatly labeled… of course. 😉

Erin Pyper, MSW's avatar

Your piece shares an unspoken truth about why newsletter stagnate.