“Self-pity in its early stages is as snug as a feather mattress. Only when it hardens does it become uncomfortable.” ― Maya Angelou

Disappointments are a frustratingly common fact of life. My own life regularly doesn’t meet my desires, but I’m lucky to be surrounded by people who pull me away from self-pity before I sink too far in. I do the same for them. Self-pity is seductive, wrapping its soft arms around you until you fall asleep, & you must be strong against it. Because, if you sink into this particular feather mattress for too long you may never wake up. So, whenever I suffer a disappointment, when I feel like giving up, when I feel the strong pull of self-pity, I call my husband or friends I know will talk me out of it. Then I pull myself out of bed and get to work.

Pic: yet another beautiful stationery shop: Legatoria Polliero in Venice…