Families fracture and relationships end. That sounds harsh, but unfortunately, that reality is a very big part of our society. Often children are a part of the relationships that end and it takes incredible focus, patience, and understanding to ensure the kids don’t get caught in the crossfire. There is so much to consider from […]
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It’s not all in your head… it is all in your heart! The work of grieving and mourning is heart work not head work. When we stay in our heads while grieving, we over analyze our feelings or dismiss them. We fall prey to the myth that time heals all and we should just get […]
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Anyone who is experiencing a painful transition in life needs help now and again. You don’t have to be a counsellor to offer valuable support to them. A family member or friend can provide immeasurable help by sharing a cup of coffee with the person and listening to them talk. Sometimes, however, the person needs […]
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From sympathy cards to handwritten notes, from neighbors to family, and from social workers to counselors there is plenty of “do this/do that” or “try this/try that” conversations offered to the bereaved. I have been bereaved and I have been the support for others; therefore, I have also been the transmitter and the receiver of […]
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My mentor, Dr. Alan Wolfelt, taught me to approach clients with a ‘teach me attitude’. I can honestly say that every client DOES teach me something about the grief journey. One, in particular, sparked me to look at all the ways in which one’s confidence can be shattered. Events such as the death of a […]
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Addiction comes in all forms: Tobacco, drugs, alcohol, food, gambling, sex and work to name a few. People can even become addicted to seeking approval and acceptance or to anything that will give them an adrenaline rush. And I am sure you know someone who is even addicted to drama and chaos in his or […]
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The journey of grief is overwhelming. Let’ s face it… it’ s hard, sad, exhausting and takes every ounce of energy to get through the day. It doesn’ t always stay that way; however, to get to the other side of the pain takes some endurance. Unfortunately, we live in a society that supports moving […]
Read More...There is nothing more damaging to our soul than an anger and bitterness that is carried with a vengeance for years. That isn’t to say people don’t have the right to be angry about what has happened to them. They do. The important thing is for a person to find a way that is both […]
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Silent night, holy night All is calm, all is bright Round yon Virgin Mother and Child Holy Infant so tender and mild Sleep in heavenly peace Sleep in heavenly peace Silent night, holy night! Shepherds quake at the sight Glories stream from heaven afar Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia! Christ, the Saviour is born Christ, the […]
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December 17th was my youngest daughter’s birthday. It’s another birthday to celebrate her, the accomplishments she has made in her life, the love she has given to all of us, and the gifts she has shared freely with the world. It’s also another birthday celebrated without her dad. In fact, it’s the 25th birthday she has […]
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It is an honor to share my journey through grief with you. Although my story is that ~ my story~ it is important for me to acknowledge that many people shared in the losses that I share here. Each of us had a different experience and each of us grieved and mourned in a unique way. While I empathize and truly shared in the pain of others who were also affected by these tragedies, I can only speak for myself and share... READ MORE