But What Do We Know

Novelist Paule Marshall in an interview from 1991 emphasized how important it is to stay the course and not become discouraged. She relates that as a writer you have to be able to ride the tide through the ups and downs. In the quote above she indicates how people can learn so much from being able to freely express themselves with their friends. Just as Paule Marshall expresses that writing felt natural to her, it was her way of communicating with the world, we have found writing is also our way of recording and sharing our stories. My name is Cheryl and my friendship with Carrin inspired us to consider the possibility of starting this book. Later when we meet Kim we knew it was truly our destiny. Now we invite you to take a journey with us into our homes through our book and experience all we have learned from our moments thus far.

But What Do We Know began more than 15 years ago. It started with random thoughts written in various journals and on miscellaneous scraps of paper and grew into this compilation of insights into how one might approach everyday situations in a more positive way. The stories told one-on-one and advice given in passing has grown into this collection of stories, thoughts and quotes that are meant to help the reader see circumstances in a way they may never have thought. It was at the urging of those on the receiving end of our perspective that we have gathered and recorded many of our own experiences and those that others have related to us to share with you now.

The following chapters are divided into subject areas that are a part of everyone’s life. What makes them beneficial to others is that they offer up a “glass is half full” way of looking at everyday situations. None of the stories or thought questions is meant to tell you what is right or wrong. Only you can decide what’s best for you. Although we have not received degrees or awards in fields related to human development or psychology, we believe we have lived long enough to offer new insights into the situations people face every day as they relate to their spouses, children, parents, and co-workers. Experience from some very different starting places and perspectives led us to the conclusion that the way we view our lives and our circumstances can define us, for good or bad.

Our intention with this book isn’t to guide your life or answer all of your questions. It isn’t to solve any great mystery of life. It is merely a different view of some very basic situations. Our hope is that one of these random thoughts will help you and let you know that you can do anything! We, the authors, have realized this very thing by our friendship. We’ve offered our viewpoint… But What Do We Know. Guess you’ll have to read on to see for yourself.