After the loss of a beloved animal companion followed by several lackluster months during which Maddie McIntyre of Nashville, Tennessee, didn't have it in her to do much of anything, it finally found its way back into her.
"It feels really weird," said McIntyre. "I got used to feeling totally empty inside. Now it's almost like I've been invaded. Sometimes I'm not sure I can take it."
Now that she has it back in her, though, McIntyre says that she's doing her best to make the most of it and, more than anything, just do it - whatever "it" might be. But despite being determined to make it work for her, it isn't always easy, she admits.
"It takes a lot out of me," said McIntyre. "Time, for one. And energy. Basically, it just takes what it takes."
Navigating it solo also has its challenges, noted McIntyre. "They say it takes two or even a village, but all I've got is me. Still, I'm giving it my all. And I do think I have what it takes. At the very least, I'm trying."
And just what is it, exactly?
McIntyre couldn't say for certain. "Honestly, I don't always quite get it. It just kind of is what it is. They say it's worth it, though. Hopefully they're right."
