Blog, Reflecting

No Regrets: Life is a Luxury

I used to live my life haunted by regrets, wishing I’d made different choices, taken the other road, and seized opportunities that were right in front of my face. I regretted not reaching out to people that needed it the most, I regretted wasting my time in unhealthy relationships, I regretted not truly investing myself in college the first time around, I regretted growing up too fast, and I regretted blocking family members out of my life at times. But as I sit today, on the anniversary of 9/11, and reflect upon how the life I’ve enjoyed is a luxury, I clearly see that regrets are unnecessary. Read the rest at http://www.shannonphilpott.com

Blog, Journalism, Teaching, Writing

Writing From the Grave

Death is so taboo. People fear it, avoid discussing it, and shudder at the thought of it. In reality, though, death opens up someone’s life story. When a person dies, his or her life’s story unfolds and then becomes newsworthy. To counteract feelings of despair, family, friends, and co-workers reflect on the deceased, tell stories of the past, and ingrain this person’s image and likeliness with memories. Read more at http://www.shannonphilpott.com

Feature Stories, Newspaper Writing

Hospice of Southern Illinois Comforts Entire Family at the End of Life

Margaret Hettenhausen is not afraid to die. Lying comfortably in a chair in her own home, she strokes her beloved cat, Missy, and says, “I’m not afraid; I’m ready.” Two months ago, Hettenhausen was driving a car; today she is unable to walk without support. The 92-year old is suffering from ovarian cancer. She may live two more days – two more years.