Stories give meaning to our lives. They are essential to the human experience and gives us the ability to use our imagination to paint a picture with words. Stanley Fritz in "Beautiful Problems" does just that. Every story in this imaginative compilation is a sensory experience, allowing the reader to create a blend of sounds, smells, and sights. "Beautiful Problems" is not about finding a personal connection to the stories that are exquisitely written, but about finding an emotional connection to the struggles. Human struggles differ, but humanity is a thread that connects us. That human thread is weaved through "Beautiful Problems" creating a wonderful tapestry of life. The stories are so poignant and raw that I sometimes found myself disagreeing with the perspective and still rooting for the underdog.
“Beautiful Problems” is full of struggles I might never experience, but while reading they became mine. In “Letter to my Daughter” a father speaks about losing his parental rights in a divorce. His narrative will never be my reality, yet his story allowed me to feel his unique challenge within the context of his own experience. For a few minutes I melted into that moment, and because while reading I do not have to offer commentary, I could truly immerse myself into someone else’s life.
“Letter to my Daughter” allowed me to connect with a struggle that is not mine, while “The Friend Zone” gave me an opportunity to disagree with perspective of the author, all the while wanting him to win. As a woman I have my reasons for wanting a man to be a friend and not a lover, and none has to do with men being too nice. Yet that does not matter, because Stanley Fritz is speaking from his heart and perspective. I will never truly be in his shoes, but through his words I was able to experience a snippet of his life.
"Beautiful Problems" is a journey. Read it and you will find yourself in a journey of self-awareness, healing, and compassion.
I try to update my blog as much as possible, but life gets in the way. Last blog post I wrote about my friend Jill. She was raped in her NY apartment while she slept and is still living in the same place because she has no funds to move. I pleaded with all the wonderful people that read my blog and donations poured in! I was able to collect approximately $2,000 for her and I ran out of words to say how grateful I am for all those who donated and sent me wonderful messages for Jill.
I have been helping Jill find a new home, but NY is a tough place to find an affordable rent. We were hoping she would be in a new place by the new years, but we've had no luck. We are however working on it and hope to welcome the new year with a new attitude and a gratefulness for human compassion.
I am not always the best at updating my readers on time, but I will let you know and take pictures as soon as she finds a new home! Your donations will be put to good use, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for trusting me with your money. I am just a person on the internet and you all trusted me to do the right time. I will continue to fight for all rape survivors, and while I cannot help all of them move on and live in peace I will strive to speak up for all men and women who need it.
Thank you for reading my posts. I wish you all a great new year full of determination and compassion.
With love,
Patty
