On the windswept prairies of the 1800’s white-out snowstorms could make life dangerous. Conditions could completely block the view from the back door to the barn door – leaving farmers in danger of losing their way in the white out and bitter cold.
Since before Halloween, artificial Christmas trees and more have been on display in retail spaces. Shopping anywhere you can see the indicators of future festivities. But, in your loss experience, you may not be feeling so festive.
Whenever I see the compass, I think of my sister’s hands holding it as she backpacked, kayaked, and canoed the McKenzie River in Canada. She and a friend took on this massive adventure in the summer of 2004.
So many things these days stretch our energy and attention. Following a national election, for instance. Or the unfolding weather catastrophes that have impacted so many.
Our experiences of grief and loss can be confusing. Grief can bring on feelings of sorrow, uncertainty, and regret. When we think of our loved one, we may also discover feelings of tenderness and comfort. Sadness and gladness can be present at the same time.
Losses come in all shapes and sizes. No matter what, when they arrive on our doorstep, something changes.
Watershed moments…places where something pushes you into the turbulence of change can lead to important new discoveries.
Several years ago, I was in another city attending the funeral of a friend’s parent. I had recently been through the loss of a sister and a divorce so losses and changes were heavy on my heart.
The One Drive Photo Gallery often emails me pictures of memorable moments “on this day.” Some days I love getting these pictures – being reminded of people, animals, experiences, and places dear to me. Other days these photographs remind me of more challenging moments from the past.
In his book Life is in the Transitions, author Bruce Feiler writes about autobiographical occasions. He defines these occasions as “moments when we are encouraged or obliged to reimagine who we are.