Pandemic 2020
The grief of loneliness hangs heavy,
fog-like in my home,
once a safe haven, now almost prison-like.
I gaze out my window at vibrant yellow poppies
across the street, standing tall.
Smiling I know their confident presence
is a needed hope that this fog will lift,
ending the solitary grief
of being colorless . . .
Adrift
By: Janie Rian
HEALING: Hello in the merry month of May! The beginning of a new month and new hope we will move through this Pandemic, just like our opening poem by my dearest friend Janie Rian!
April started out good. Alas, my entire back went out! I was immediately thrown into initial shock and denial, followed by feeling helpless, angry, and finally depressed and anxious! This was compounded by a dear friend’s Mom being at death’s door, friends losing friends to Covid-19, my husband working as a hospital RN, and my book coming to a stop. What to do?!
CONNECTIONS: I had to deal with the situation in front of me in the realm of emotions, which is the heart of griefwork. I had to:
1. BE where I was.
2. Be AWARE of my emotions.
3. FEEL my emotions.
4. EXPRESS my emotions.
5. Get THROUGH my emotions.
I got help from my Physical Therapist for my physical problems so the emotions would not get further stuck in my body. I took my pain meds and supplements again. I allowed myself to feel my emotions–cry if I needed to, yell in a safe place. I had a Telehealth therapy session and was able to find out that memories of my dad’s traumatic dying/death were triggered by what my friend’s Mom was going through. I got in touch with my RAW fear about losing my husband to Coronavirus. I quit watching the media or looking at negative stuff on social media. I did Reiki healing and prayer work nightly for others and me. I texted/called/posted on FB with close friends, family, and FB support groups. RESULTS: I am slowly getting better! My friend’s Mom is recovering! My husband is OK so far!
RESOURCES for YOU: All online
- Free Apps:
- NAMI Resource Library: In-person and online support groups
- Warmline Directory
- Emotions Anonymous
- Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunctional Families
WHAT HELPS YOU DEAL WITH THE STRESS OF EMOTIONS? PLEASE SHARE!
Blessings,
Carolyn Q.
