The Weight of Secrets

January often arrives with a sense of renewal. After the indulgence and chaos of the holidays, many of us shift our focus inward, resolving to lighten our physical load with strict diets and strenuous exercise routines, most of which fall by the wayside before long.

But what about the invisible weight we carry? What about the secrets we keep from ourselves?

These secrets often linger quietly, buried beneath the surface of our busy lives. They aren’t the kind we confess to others or even write in journals. Instead, they are the truths we refuse to acknowledge: the unfulfilled dreams we’ve tucked away, the fears we’ve silenced, the regrets we’ve hidden from ourselves. Self-deception is a story we tell ourselves.

But why? Sometimes it’s out of self-preservation. Facing painful realities can feel overwhelming. Other times, it’s a fear of change; admitting a hidden truth might demand action we’re not ready to take. Yet, the weight of these unspoken truths accumulates, leaving us drained, restless, or stuck.

Mystery novels thrive on the power of secrets. Often, the heart of a great mystery lies in what characters choose to hide—from themselves and from others. The discovery of these secrets propels the plot, weaving suspense and tension into the story. Readers are drawn to the unraveling of these hidden truths.

In these fictional stories, secrets often serve as mirrors to our own lives. They remind us of the complexities of human nature and the emotional weight we carry when truths are buried. What are we afraid to confront? Perhaps it’s an old grudge we’ve refused to let go, a career path we’ve outgrown, or a relationship that no longer serves us. The act of unburdening—even if just to ourselves—can be transformative. Naming the secret is the first step toward releasing its hold.

This January, as we focus on lightening our physical load, perhaps we can also resolve to lighten the emotional weight we carry. Let’s trade self-deception for self-awareness and denial for clarity.

The truth, even when it’s uncomfortable, offers freedom. And with that freedom comes the possibility of a lighter, brighter year ahead.

“There are no secrets that time does not reveal.”

Jean Racine

Did You Know? Fascinating Facts About Ravens

As I work on my current mystery novel, which features ravens, I’ve been diving into the incredible world of these fascinating birds. Their intelligence, adaptability, and rich symbolism make them a perfect fit for a story shrouded in intrigue. I wanted to share some of what I’ve learned about these remarkable creatures.

1. Masters of Mimicry. Ravens can imitate human speech and sounds like car engines or animal calls, showcasing their adaptability.

2. Problem-Solving Geniuses. Among the smartest birds, ravens use tools, plan for the future, and work together to solve problems.

3. Playful Personalities. These birds enjoy sliding down snowy hills, playing mid-flight, and engaging in games with peers.

4. Uncanny Memory. Ravens remember faces and can hold grudges, even warning others about perceived threats.

5. Loyal Companions. Ravens mate for life and mourn their dead, showing emotional depth and strong community bonds.

6. Symbolism Across Cultures. In mythology, they represent wisdom, transformation, and sometimes danger or evil. For example, in some folklore, ravens are seen as omens of death or bad luck, while in others, they are revered for their intelligence and role as messengers. (The image above gives a hint to the plot of my new mystery.)

I think you’ll enjoy this first book in the Cody Hart Mystery Series. And now, I need to get back to writing!

Warmly,

Raegan