Karen Gross is one of Triond’s most genuine authors. Her style and variety will delight you.
One of my first Triond friends was Karen Gross and I was excited to give her work a try.
The first article that I read of Karen’s was “Thanksgiving without Mom.“ As we finish up the holidays, it is a warm article that will help those who might be missing a family member this holiday season.
Karen is not only a thoughtful writer, I have found her comments on my own articles to be sincere and encouraging. From Karen’s profile we know that she has worked previously as a teacher and a librarian, two professions that the public has benefitted from greatly. What a better way to spend your life than to pass on the previous generation’s knowledge to the little ones, in teaching, and to harness that knowledge in a systematic fashion to be dispensed easily, as in a librarian. Add to her resume mother and wife and I’d say her life has been full of meaning. And I’ve never met the lady!
Every American, at least, should read Karen’s expose on Canada: “Like, Totally Canadian, Eh?“ Our frozen friends to the north deserve more respect, so let’s give it up for Karen! [Note to readers: Don't tell Karen, but honestly, isn't saying 'thank you' to the ATM a bit overboard?]
But the thing that I appreciate most about Karen is that she shares her life story with the rest of us, the Triond community (and potentially with a few million others). What possesses a person to share challenges with strangers?
Vulnerability – strength – a desire to make a difference in the world – being genuine. From my perspective, those traits sum up Karen Gross. And let’s not forget that this is a woman of faith trusting in her God with all her heart, waiting for that Great Day when he will deliver her body from this wretched Parkinson’s. More than that, her soul will finally find its greatest satisfaction, seeing her Savior face to face.
I chose to go back to one of Karen’s earlier works, like we’ve been encouraged to do lately (read it forward). I was caught by the title “I’m Not Fine, Thank You.“ This work exposes the shallow nature with which North Americans greet each other. Karen’s writing is funny and so true to life. I was shocked that not one comment was left on this article, written back in February. I was so shocked, that I left two comments for Karen!
In the midst of Karen’s life, she has taken the time to celebrate her 50th Triond Article Anniversary. How exciting! She does so with her recent work “My Fiftieth Triond Article.“ This article is a crossroads of sorts for Karen. Won’t you write Karen today, or read one of her past articles, and celebrate her life!
Tags: Canada, Canadian, comments, faith, Friend, God, Karen Gross, librarian, Life, Parkinson's, people, relationship, teacher, Thanksgiving, triond, writer
December 31st, 2008 at 10:55 am
nice tribute to a good writer,it’s official-it’s new year here-happy new year
December 31st, 2008 at 10:58 am
Nobert, happy new year! Brian
December 31st, 2008 at 11:07 am
How nice of you. I will check out her works. Happy New Year, Brian, Pam
December 31st, 2008 at 1:21 pm
I’ll be sure to check out her work.
December 31st, 2008 at 1:42 pm
Oh, Brian I don’t know who this writer is or have ever heard of her but it is a lovely and thoughtful thing to do. By the by, I am also Canadian and we take our Canadian phrases seriously. lol…
December 31st, 2008 at 1:52 pm
PR and Darla, I’m glad you will read Karen’s works.
Debra, glad I could make the introduction. How could you not know your neighbor Karen?
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Brian
December 31st, 2008 at 2:14 pm
Sorry Brian, but Triond is a very huge place. I don’t know everyone as I’m sure you do not either but your tribute is very kind none the less.
Happy New Year!
December 31st, 2008 at 6:22 pm
Brian,
Your unselfish acts of kindness to other writers inspires me to follow your example. Each time you credit an author, I make an honest effort to check out their material. I wish you nothing but blessings for 2009.
December 31st, 2008 at 6:29 pm
It so easy to not recognize a diamond in the rough since there are more rough than smooth. Thanks for bringing some light.
December 31st, 2008 at 7:25 pm
What an incredible honour! Thank you so much, Brian! My computer has been sick with a nasty virus all week, so this was a wonderful welcome back surprise. Thank you also for the encouraging comments left by other authors. Perhaps my earnings this month will clear $1.00 for the first time!
December 31st, 2008 at 7:53 pm
P.S. To Debra – we should get together for coffee sometime! Meet you at Tim Hortons.
OK – so we don’t actually say thank you to the ATM machines, but we are a friendly bunch.
December 31st, 2008 at 10:16 pm
What a nice tribute to Karen. I agree with everything you say.Karen is a wonderful writer and a good friend.I try to read everything my friends write but I don’t always have time and I do apoligise for those I miss.
January 4th, 2009 at 5:01 pm
What a kind, sweet tribute*
Blessings.
Sincerely,
-Liane Schmidt.
January 9th, 2009 at 9:44 pm
Debra, Chris, Lauren, Ruby, and Liane, I’m so grateful for your friendship and partnership in Triond. Glad you are friends with Karen and/or will check out her work.
Karen, you are most welcome!!
Brian