Hello, and thanks so much for dropping by . . .
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Gratitude to each of the 1,780 entrants in our recent Book Giveaway Contest. Also, warm congratulations to the winners; your books were mailed on November 23rd. The post is overwhelmed lately; still, we trust your copy will arrive within the next few weeks. Thanks again. to "one and all," for your interest in Life Came to a Standstill; you do make a positive difference. Goodreads profile available here
How are you coping these days? As winter rapidly approaches, seasonal changes can shine a harsh spotlight on sadness and grief. All by itself 2020 is a difficult year. With restrictions for our safety, many of us are truly missing our hugs; as well, it's so complicated to fully support each other. Still, we can do this . . . It may feel as if no one appreciates the true depths of your sorrow. Sadly, there are times when we humans need to walk a similar path to fully comprehend. Gently, let's encourage one another with compassion and understanding as best we can. The only measure of control we have is of ourselves, and what we do. With this in mind, we can reach out for what sustains and nurtures us, and those we love, one-day-at-a-time. Covid-19 remains an invisible threat. Are you as weary of it's continuing strain as so many of us are? As individuals we navigate this pandemic differently. Some of your neighbours and mine may be struggling financially, or with underlying health issues, while for those who are bereaved grief continues . . . Traditional celebratory days, happy for many, can blind-side those who grieve with painful emotions and poignant memories. Hold tight to hope when an unexpected roller-coaster-ride of grief seems unstoppable. Even the darkest days can hold small shimmers of light, if we stay open to this. Sadly, these scary ups and downs can be a normal piece of your journey; so, please don't run away emotionally. Deep breaths; find a way to bring your loved-one right into the day; giving yourself the same kindness you would offer to your very best friend. Reach outward, rather than keeping your feelings bottled-up inside. As challenging as this journey continues to be, it helps to share your story again and again with those you trust. Even when you feel isolated, please encourage yourself to reach outward by phone, internet, physical-distancing visits, and perhaps a closer connection with your small safe circle. Snail-mail too can offer some of the help and support you need. Although our book does not "speak" to the new realities of 2020, we hold out a helping hand for your grief. Life Came to a Standstill is dedicated to every heart impacted by loss. We "get it" that your grief continues to impact you while world events attempt to overshadow your sorrow. A bereaved mom gives back: The Story of the Dragonfly (photo upward to the left) begins: "Once in a little pond, in the muddy water under the lily pads, there lived a little water beetle . . ." Barbara, bereaved mom of Nathan, in Nathan's honour and memory, lovingly crafts these beautiful key chains from parachute silk. She donates the key chains, including this timeless legend. If you have an interest in Barbara's compassionate work, you may contact her at: dragonflys4nathan@gmail.com To learn more about Life Came to a Standstill: for instance; photos, a piece of the Introduction, and to read the first paragraph of each chapter choose the website pages: "author & contributing writers." To view opinions of others, please open "reviews." Moving through our site, under "more" you will find 2 free support-booklets ready to click and print. Scroll further under "more" for book tips. Grieving a loved-one is the hardest work. We'd like to help you. Various communities offer bereavement support. One valuable resource is Bereaved Families of Ontario-York Region (BFOYR). Click here to access their website. Face-to-face support is temporarily suspended, due to Covid-19; however, peer support by phone is available upon request: leave a message at (905) 898-6265. BTW>"Life Came to a Standstill" is available through many venues, including libraries. To see where you can purchase your copy (with no obligation to buy) look under "order your copy." Follow our FB book page by clicking the symbol below, or send us a note anytime at all. During each and every day, we wish you hope, health, strength, safety, and love. |
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