“It doesn’t seem worth starting anything. I can’t settle down.” This quote from T.S. Eliot and his work, “A Grief Observed,” really says it all!
Here in Idyllwild, if you talk to almost anyone, you find that they know someone who is suffering a loss or a serious transition and it may even be themselves! Many in our community know the face of grief and perhaps could benefit from talking with others, sharing their story and creating a circle of care and support.
The loss can be from the death of a spouse/partner, parent, child, or dear friend. It may be the loss of a way of relating to someone dear to us, due to Alzheimer’s or dementia. A sense of well-being can be lost or undermined due to serious illness. Grief is also a common experience for those going through divorce, separation or broken relationships.
All of us can with time and care regain a sense of ourselves and of moving forward with our lives. During the sessions we will dispel some misconceptions of grief, explore the many faces of grief, and honor the uniqueness of each story shared. Together we will appreciate the roller coaster of feelings that accompany each unique loss.
Esther Kennedy, MSW, director of Spirit Mountain Retreat, will facilitate the program, for which there is no charge, thanks Doug Austin and the Mary Austin Foundation Grant.
The ‘Living through Loss and Transition Series,’ will meet from 10 a.m. to noon, Thursday mornings, March 22 through May 3, at Spirit Mountain Retreat, 25661 Oakwood. To register call (951) 659-2523.
