If you have experienced tragic loss you know there are no words to describe the anguish and the all-consuming weight that bears down on you. We’ve just passed the 6-month anniversary of my friend Kim’s death and the experience has evolved in different ways, so it is time to write again. Some aspects are worse. Some are better. Here are my experiences with grief, as they present themselves further along in the process.
I am incredibly lucky to have a global tribe of people that supports my endeavors and cares for me when I’m in need. You know who you are, and this year wouldn’t have been possible or enjoyable without all of your help. For one of the first times in my life I had to put my fierce independence aside and embrace my need for others, and you all showed up. Historically speaking, relying on others was not my really my “thing.” I spent the years just prior to my travel adventure embracing newly-found independence and convincing myself that this need…
I sat in the back of a comfy SUV with two of my beloved road moms in the front. We were on our way to spend the afternoon at Yellowstone National Park, and as we drove I felt my “peace zone” spread over me. Without a home base, I find myself feeling relaxed and experiencing the comforts of home in many different places, usually in the care of others, and usually as the result of prioritizing care for myself. I had left the after-party early the night before to ensure a good night’s sleep, ate a good breakfast, and did…
I had to acknowledge that my brain and heart can’t capture the quantity and magnitude of these experiences in such a short amount of time without mindfulness, documentation, and carving intentional time to reflect and breath.
The girl on the plane described Montana as “the most beautiful place in the country” and I smiled politely but was not convinced. We arrived at Big Sky at night, and upon opening the curtains the next morning… I got it. Rolling hills, rock formations, mountains, meadows, forests, lakes… and all huge. The sheer number of beautiful landmarks everywhere is staggering. It’s truly our country at its finest, and I’m so happy to say I’ve experienced it firsthand. I was eager to get out and do some hiking, and it wasn’t until we were being dropped off at the trailhead…