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Thanksgiving is on the horizon. The changes of the seasons, however beautiful, can place a glaring spotlight on sadness and grief. All by itself, 2020 is such a challenging year. With Halloween, more or less, cancelled and Thanksgiving dinners restricted, it makes it harder to support each other fully; still we can do this . . .
Even in the darkest days, let's honour our loved ones by hanging onto hope. When our tragic losses are recent, grief is so raw and painful that it can feel as if no one understands the depths of our sorrow. Gently, let's encourage one another with kindness and compassion. 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 best, one day at a time. Edward Everett Hale (1822-1909) shared these wise words, "I am only one; but still I am one. I cannot do everything; but still I can do something . . ." Yes, it's worrisome that Covid-19, remains an invisible threat. Some are being careful, others not so much. We sure didn't anticipate the Corona virus would hold power this long. Many are feeling weary of the continued strain, and as I've mentioned, the world may be battling the same storm; yet, as individuals we are navigating it differently. Some of our neighbours may be struggling financially, or with underlying health issues, while for those who are bereaved grief continues . . . Traditional celebratory days: birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays, can blind-side "you" with painful emotions, and poignant memories. The ensuing roller-coaster-ride of grief feels overwhelming. Unstoppable! These scary ups and downs, however painful they can be, are a normal part of your grief journey. Please don't run away, emotionally, from a special anniversary; instead, find a way to bring your loved-one into the day, while granting yourself kindness and permission to grieve. Reach out, rather than keeping your feelings bottled-up inside . . . It helps to share your story again and again with those you trust. Perhaps you remain somewhat isolated right now. Continue to reach outward by phone, internet, physical-distancing visits, and (possibly) a little closer connection with your safe social circle. Snail-mail too can offer some of the compassionate 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 about Life Came to a Standstill, including photos, a piece of the Introduction, and to read the first paragraph of each chapter, choose the page, "author & contributing writers." To view the opinions of others, please check out "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 and 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. "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. To the entrants in our July giveaway, thank you for your interest in Life Came to a Standstill. Your participation has made such a positive difference. Apologies to one of the winners, who will be receiving the book so terribly late. Unfortunately, there was an address error. Please watch for it soon. Goodreads profile available here During each and every day, we wish you hope, health, strength, safety, and love. |
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