I’m pretty much an open book, and if you pay attention, you can follow me as I work my way through life. I don’t pick random flaws and challenges for my characters to experience. I choose those in which I’m dealing with myself. So if you want to know me, all the good and bad, then just read my books. Or anything I write. Or don’t write…
You haven’t heard from me in a while, which says something too. Yes, I have been working on a new book, and I’m quite sure it’s the best I’ve ever written, but there’s more to it than that. I’ve had my head down because the shit hit the fan for me. I’ll abuse another worn-out cliche: when it rains, it pours.
In the last few months, obstacles have come at me from every direction, and they’ve come at me hard. Outside of losing people I love and the years surrounding my diagnosis of focal dystonia, which stripped me of my music career, I can’t remember facing so much fear and pain and sadness.
Thankfully, I can always find solace in writing. I can put my head down and fall into this place where words pass through me. When I’m there, I’m safe and joyful and plugged into something far bigger than me—assuring me I’m doing something right.
I don’t need to get into the details of my own strife, but I’m sure you can imagine them, as I know you have hard times too. That’s why I’m reaching out today. Not to dump upon you my troubles but to connect, because you know what I’m talking about. If you’re not going through stuff at this exact moment, you probably have in the past.
I’m ahead of schedule on my book, so it’s allowing me some time to take a breather and recharge. I’m doing a lot of walking with my dogs, spending time with family, reading, meditating, and drinking tea (I have a budding tea problem)—all while sitting with and accepting and facing the challenges that have presented themselves. What I’m trying to do is embrace the storm as opposed to running or hiding from it, and I’m finding so many answers in the quiet spaces.
The truth is that I’ve been hiding and escaping. I’ve been overworking and overdoing a lot of other things too. I’ve been so focused on establishing and finding my inner safety—reconciling the imbalance in my nervous system and my tendency toward fight, flight, or freeze—that I’ve forgotten to lift up my head and open my heart. I’d forgotten that loving those around me and loving strangers and giving everyone in my life kindness and compassion is as important as focusing on my inward development. In fact, I can’t fully develop inwardly without sharing the peace and love that I have within.
As I come up for air, I am reminded of why I started writing. Not only because I had something to say, but because I wanted to help people, like books have helped me. I wanted to share the struggles that I face in hopes that maybe I can give a little hope to some of you who are going through similar things. Perhaps we can climb out of our difficulties together. I write because it is my strongest tool in doing my little part to make the world a brighter place.
Someone wrote me just yesterday and said The Singing Trees inspired them to start painting again, and that she is now passionately searching for her voice as an artist. Not too long ago, someone told me they had lost a tremendous amount of weight after being inspired by Margot in the Red Mountain stories. I get these emails quite often. This is why I write and I remember that today. No, I’m not a neurosurgeon. I’m just a halfway bright and lucky guy from Spartanburg, South Carolina who has had some great leaders in my life and who was fortunate enough to find what I’m meant to do. I can’t change the world, but maybe I can do a little something.
I’ve been trying to brainstorm my next few stories, to prepare to pitch to my publisher at some point this year, and the ideas have been a little hard to find. I think that’s because I lost my compass. I forgot that it’s in my heart, not my brain.
I’m talking more to myself than you now… It’s so important to work on the inner Boo. But it’s equally, if not more important, to open your heart to those around you. Not just your immediate family or even your extended family. Not only your friends. It’s important that you open your heart to your readers and the guy who cuts your hair and everyone at the chiropractor’s office and the sweet woman who served you and your son breakfast yesterday. Yes, you are having a tough go at it, but so many people have it much worse. Be grateful for what you have and put your eyes on them. Share your love with them.
What about the Ukrainians who slept in trees last night because of the flooding caused by the destroyed dam? What about the homeless people camped out in downtown Portland, Maine? What about the people who don’t have easy access to clean drinking water? What about my friend whose wife crushed him a few weeks ago when she told him an unbearable truth? Or the person in my life who lost their partner last week?
Boo, what you’re going through, it’s not that it doesn’t matter. It’s big to you. But take a step back and know that you’re not alone. Take a page from your forthcoming book and look up at the sky, listen to what the stars have to say, and wipe the smudges off the lenses through which you sometimes see life.
We’re all, even the worst of us, striving for happiness. We’re all in this together. Only by sharing in this human experience can we fully realize the potential.
I write to you today with an open heart.
I haven’t met all of you, but I’m so grateful to be a part of your life, and I extend to you my love. I hope that your struggles will not hold you back and that you will find a way through them. I hope that together we can lift our heads and open our hearts today, even if it’s for only a few minutes. May we think outside of ourselves and slip into the skin of those around us with open minds.
When I wake tomorrow and the days after, may I make plenty of room to consider the rest of you out there fighting it out with me. May I pluck my head out of my own arse long enough to remember that we’re in it together. May I live a life that not only fulfills me but will impact you as well.
Even if it’s just offering a smile, or drawing out a laugh. Seeing someone who hasn’t been seen in a while. Picking up something that someone dropped, opening a door for someone with their hands full. Paying the toll for someone behind you. Giving a gift for no reason at all.
Most importantly, may I put aside my own issues and biases and thoughts and daydreams to listen—to really listen—to someone when they talk to me.
This life I’m living is not about me. It’s about what I can do for the rest. It’s about connecting.
Here’s to open hearts, my friends.
45 Responses
Married my best friend 49.4 years ago; scattered his ashes last week. Now must learn how to live with half a heart, finding answers in your books, thank you Mr. Walker.
Wow! Just Wow! Your words really hit my soul and a spirit to spirit connection.
I have goosebumps. We all are on different paths and we all learn different and grow at our own pace. May we always keep connecting to each other and keep our hearts open and loving. Be kind to each other and know we are all suffering in different ways. Just love you, Boo Walker!
Thank you for suggesting Into the Magic Shop. One of the best books I’ve read in awhile. Keep writing, keep struggling it’s only then you know your growth! Been there. And BTW I can’t believe you’ve never heard of Outlander!
Boo- we, your faithful readers and friends- one and the same.? are with you, and hold you in our hearts! Look forward to tomorrow.
While I’m reading this, on the radio station I’m listening to, is playing “If You’re Going Through Hell” by Rodney Atkins….as the song says just keep on going. That’s what we all have to do, just keep on going. Thank you for your open honesty and I do hope that things quieten down.
Already bought The Magic Store and mesmerized with Dr. Doty’s words.
You don’t need a magic thumb, but kind words, relaxation, a different outlook on life and a more open heart!
You guys are amazing. Thank you for your support and thank you for sharing in this ride with me.
What an open and compassionate person you are! While pouring out your heart to your readers, you also empathise with those who are also struggling. I think this makes you the amazing writer you have become. What a gift you have – and are!
Boo, can’t tell you how long it has taken me to realize that life’s true pleasures are the simplest moments. Your writing always shows this which helped me to conclude it for myself. We all search for joy in our own ways, Margo, in the Red Mountain series was a wonderful example of trying too hard to do this and eventually realizing she was the true Margo all along. Appreciating the the color of the sky, the smell of the fruits or flowers, the little boy giggling as he plays with a small toy…a bird singing in a birdbath. Simple pleasures. Your stories show simple pleasures are also the simplest to find. Joan – Red Mountain knew this. Thank you for the inspiration over and over.
Thank you Boo for sharing one of your bad days with us. You were already a very human writer/author/virtual friend by the way you connect with us whether you are shucking peas or other events. But choosing to be brave enough to share a bad day (or season) so transparently make us just love you more.
First, take time to be you and to do you. Your stories will wait for you.
Second, here is some unsolicited advice that was given to me two decades ago and I didn’t get around to applying it until last weekend – find someone who does cranial sacral massage with a Reiki or other intuitive modality. Not to get into my story, but allow me to say, I am now a believer in this process. It was my first time with this therapist and this treatment. It is very gentle and steady. When she would go over one part of my body, mental images and emotions would come up without either of us saying a word. When she would go over another part of my body, other mental images and emotions would come, etc. A couple of times she would stop at an area and say, this is stuck. I would usually have an answer, such as a motorcycle accident or other past events. Once she was saying, this is stuck but it feels different. I asked what is there and she mentioned a couple of organs. I said, “oh I don’t have those. One was removed in New York, another one in DC. The whole process was so gentle that I fell asleep. When it was over, I had a very relaxing couch and book afternoon when I returned home. I can’t wait for the next one. This may sound silly, but give it a try. It may be just what an overworked, heart wide open author needs. In the meantime, breathe deeply and hydrate my friend.
So, their not able to fix the issue with your hand ? That sucks Boo ! I know I always liked listening to ya play. Especially, that Banjo. Still haven’t heard anyone else make one sound like a piano. My mind is a lil blown about that. 😁🤣🤣 Miss your small Walker clan. Love, peace and respect my friend.
As I begin my 10th month of Long Covid, I’m especially glad for your words today. It’s easy to forget others are suffering far more serious issues than mine. But I do have to tell you that my nephew and I leave Birmingham the first week in July to fly to Denver so that we can see The Avett Brothers at Red Rocks. Yeah, we’re pretty excited!!! I just got permission from my Covid specialist today to attempt the trip. I’m really pumped. So no matter how bad things seem, there’s always something to look forward to.
With honesty, I say you’ve got a friend in me. Your sensitivity and honesty is remarkable and that you share your doubts and fears show how much you care that we, your readers and fans are aware you’ve hit a curve in the road. That shows you are growing and your passion to get it right. I am a loyal fan and will follow whatever road you are on. I believe In you. If you need a hand to hold, here’s mine. Sending love and prayers. Be blessed with words Boo.
Right after reading your blog, this old post of mine showed up on Facebook. It says much the same. Coincidence? Probably not: “Because you are important, everything you do is important. Every time you forgive, the universe changes; every time you reach out and touch a heart or a life, the world changes; with every kindness and service, seen or unseen my purposes are accomplished and nothing will ever be the same again.”
– God (from “The Shack”)
Black storms roll in.
Lightning zig zags across the sky.
Wind blows the trees.
The storm hits with a fury.
You watch. You wait.
And later, clear, peaceful skies.
Life is like the storm sometimes.
It hits you with a fury.
You just have to hold on.
The peace will come again.
This I believe with all my soul and heart.
You are a good example of the type of person I am trying to be. Thank you and keep being sincere and humble.
Thank you for sharing, I needed to read this. I have been feeling depressed, and not even wanting to leave the house. Your words have touched my heart. You have inspired me. From the bottom of my heart, thank you!
Thank you for this note today – a great reminder. I’m on day 187 of my new-ish meditation journey and I really do think it has helped me to appreciate the simple things in life. I do have a lot to be thankful for and I do feel blessed and fortunate. I now smile and say hello to strangers more – you never know if it’s the only smile or thank you or kind gesture they have gotten today. I hope you know how many people are pulling for you – be well.
Boo, these words couldn’t be anymore true for me at the present. Love ya brother
Simply….
inspirational…..thank you…..for what you do and who you are….
You are one of the most kind, caring, thoughtful, genuine, generous souls ever. Your books always tug at my heart, lift my spirits, shed a tear, give me a chuckle, and allow me to escape into another world. I am obsessed with all of your writings as I tend to become one of the characters I am reading. An Open Heart shows how vulnerable we all are…and what a great human you are. My heart hurts for the pains you endure. Keep on being Boo…..we love you and everything about you!
Boo,
Thank you for your open heart! I just love, love, love you as an author but more so as a person. I know we’ve never met, just through emails but when we were in Cape Elizabeth Maine last week I so wished we could have met for a glass of Red Mountain Wine someplace!
Thank you for sharing your family with us. I feel like we know you!
Thank you for reminding us to be kind. We just don’t know what someone else is dealing with! Wishing everyone would go back to the “ pay it forward” days.
We’ve all had tough times when we felt no one could ever understand. These times do fade as we figure out the hurt and pain.
That being said, it doesn’t make it easy to go through.
Sending love, thoughts and prayers as you figure out the hard times.
Keep up the great writing to the best author in the world!
Love you friend….. hugs
You speak your truth…..what a gift to all of us, including you, speaking your truth! It is an honor to keep up with you.
Boo your writing always comes from the heart-why you are able to connect so well with your readers! Wait till everyone can read The Stars Don’t Lie-wow was that one fabulous book!! Talk about connecting!
You are right-everyone has their stuff in life-family, health, etc. and it comes and goes. It is best to be mindful of others to made life complete.
Boo,
This brought such a new perspective to my day and to my life in general. Live, laugh and love always!
It takes courage to have an open heart. The last few years have made a lot of us close ourselves off from everything. We walked in our houses and closed not only the front door, but the door to our hearts as well. It was easy for me to do. That’s when I discovered you, Boo Walker. I read like I was possessed and I was. But, something else happened!!! (I am the fan obsessed with exclamation points)!! I began to journal more and took up watercolors. So, now I paint the cards that I give at birthdays, Christmas, and any time I think someone needs a card. Thank you, Boo. It is a strange and wonderful thing, you do in sharing yourself with the world, and if I knew your address I would send you a painted card, too.
You touch my heart. Send me an email at me@boowalker.com and I’ll send back my address. I would LOVE to receive a card.
I learned a process, many many years ago, to help me through times, when it will be the perfect antidote/solution to the angst. Three steps.
For me, the first step is the most profound, because I have gone to a place where I let the thought of using the process come to me.
1.. I am becoming aware ——————-
2. This awareness allows me to ————————-
3. I will put this awareness into practice by ————————
Not simple but it’s you doing the process for however long it takes…then reaping the reward that eventually puts the aha’s into more than the doing mode, then results can manifest themselves.
Thank you Boo for sharing your heart with us. Sometimes I too get so into myself and my troubles it’s hard to see other people and their pain. Thank you for booting me back to reality. There are so many people in pain today for so many reasons and I’m going to look for those that needs a smile, lift to the grocery store or just a kind word as you said. Please don’t quit writing. I would say you could move to Texas but we’re having hell degrees next week! Lol! Our spring has sprung and gone away. Take care of you and your family.
I just left a conference in Hendersonville NC that discusses these same things. It’s amazing how when we are down, we somehow get the messages we need to hear – over and over again. I’m sending prayers for your heart and the pains it is bearing right now. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts with us and don’t stop writing!
I am so glad that I found you! I could be your mom and you make me feel like I am inside your stories!! My favorite book will probably always be the one you wrote in St Pete. I connected with most of the characters. I’m leading our book club next month on that book.
Now, as your mom figure, I want to thank you for your transparency today. You have lived in some wonderful places. Have you considered that Maine might be too cold for your family? I’m sure it’s beautiful but you are as Southern as sweet tea and moon pies and RC Cola. Might be time to consider getting back to your roots. Spartanburg is close to Asheville and Atlanta, an beaches. You’re greatly appreciated. Especially since I am going through some focal dystonia myself and contemplating surgery. I’m resolved to looking outside my circle!
Hi there, so sorry about your dystonia. It’s just the worst.
Thanks for writing and supporting me. Who knows, one day we might come back south. Really enjoying Maine for now though. I suspect we’ll turn into snowbirds eventually! I miss good mac and cheese and artichoke relish and boiled peanuts.
Not only an awesome writer, but a wise and wonderful person. I hear you and am reminded that others are where I am, or worse. We need to support each other and show compassion.
The self awareness and sensitivity to human emotion is what makes your fiction compelling. We’re grateful to you and wishing you better times ahead.
Ahh, Boo, gee… my heart goes out to you in the pouring rain of sadness. I’m reaching in and hugging your heart, your soul. Yes, we all face tragedies of every kind. But the pain isn’t any less just because it’s happening all around us. It’s important to let the pain wash all the way through you. It lessens over time, but we never “get over it.” Thank you for your authentic writing, and for reaching out to all of us to share what’s in your heart. You are an important part of my life because of your books. Please thank your wife from me for all the yummy recipes. Bless you, your family, and all of your loved ones and acquaintances. Thank you for the reminder to be kind to all of those around us. Thank you for touching our hearts with all of your books and newsletters. You are an exceptionally good writer and an exceptionally nice person. I hope to meet you someday.
Thanks for sharing! I needed to hear that today! I enjoy your books so very much and anxiously waiting your next one! Wish I knew you personally!
So ironic . . . .Your “An Open Heart.” I’m facing open heart surgery and now have a new, stronger outlook. Thanks for your kind words and wisdom.
Hi Terry, as a Open Heart Surgery patient/survivor for 20 years. I will be thinking of you. It will take time to recover, please don’t overdo it. Take the time to heal. Your heart repair and overall health will thank you for it. I now also have a pacemaker and it is helping with my congested heart failure. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. B
Hi Belinda-
Just felt sad this morning until I opened Boo’s post. What a gift he is to all of us.
And now…..I feel you as an angel
Sending me your powerful
Thoughts of kindness!
Terry
Terry lots of prayers for you and your surgeons. I’ve added you to my prayer list.
Hi Jennifer-
Thanks for your thoughts and prayers.
I can’t help but think Boo’s post has already helped so many of us.
That seemed to be a big part of his message.
Just love the guy!
Terry
Boo
Thanks for this lovely reminder to Open Our Hearts
I’m grateful for having found your books and through them your Heart
Forever fan!
You are always open and honest one if the things that connected me to your books was how personal the get. You can’t write like that without it coming from the heart. Remember that for every life you touch and respond to you there are thousands that don’t say a word. Keep the light in your words going.
Simply the most honest, beautiful and touching letter to the world and to oneself I have ever read! Boo, wonderful that you exist… Spain is missing you!
Boo, you have the most open heart ever and that’s why you feel things so strongly and understand the deep secrets of life so well ! It is always very evident in all of your writing ! Hug your family and friends and especially those dogs of yours and you will find your inner peace . You’ve got this !