120 What's Done Is Done

Cora was in tears by the time she finished talking. It had all poured out of her in a way she hadn't thought was possible.

"Janelle sounds very special," Alison said. "Having connections like that is so important for us as human beings. You said you're here in part because you can't make them anymore. Why is that?"

"I can't lose anyone again," she said miserably after blowing her nose.

"An understandable fear. But you can't, as you said, 'make it in the world for both of us' if you can't connect with anyone again. That's an important part of being alive."

"I still have people to talk to and do things with! I just can't let them into my heart. I have nothing left to give."

"I think you have more to give than you realize. Everyone has that capacity, whether they want to tap into it or not. Tell me about these people."