Peer-Led Support Topic Meeting (Held the Fourth Thursday of Month) - June

Peer Led Support Topic Meetings

Join fellow widows in a safe, supportive space to explore a monthly theme together. Led by peers who understand the journey, these meetings offer connection, shared wisdom, and practical tools for healing and growth.  Whether you're newly widowed or years into your path, this is a place to feel seen, heard, and supported.

Our topic this month is: "Part II: Creating a Connected Life"

Last month, we began our two‑part series on Overcoming Loneliness, and we closed our peer‑led topic meetings with a simple but powerful reflection:

“In an attempt to be less lonely, I will try to ______________.”

This month, in Part II, we turn toward the healing power of social connection --how it can help you create a life that feels more supported, more held, and more connected. At The W Connection, we know that Showing Up and Taking Small Steps matters.

Former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy describes three “Circles of Connection” --our acquaintances, our casual friends, and our closest confidantes --and notes that strong emotional bonds grow through honest communication.

This month, we’ll explore how nurture these circles of connections by: 

• Honoring the connections we already have
• Recognizing when we need new build connections
• Learning how to intentionally create a connected life

Together, we continue moving from loneliness toward belonging.

Our Topic Committee suggest listening to Dawn's Video

The Topic committee suggests reading these articles:

• Friendships: Enrich your life and improve your health
• Are We Collecting Friends or Building Friendships?
• The Importance of Friends

Co-Leaders:  Pat & Leslie

Pat Osman zooming in from Windsor, Colorado

About me:  I am a military mom and a former public school middle & high school teacher. Now full-time volunteer staff at the W Connection including: Online Topic Facilitator, W Chat Host, First Connect Leader, Training and Topic Development. I left the Philly area three years ago for a life with family in Colorado.

Interests: Hiking in the Rockies, snowshoeing, gardening, reading, music, theater.

Works well with: Working moms, empty nesters, people with a passion for outdoors.

Year of Loss: 2014

Leslie Goldman zooming in from South Orange, NJ

About me: I am an artist and a musician, a mom, and a good friend. I practice gratitude and enjoying all the new opportunities for growth I'm experiencing now.  

Interests: Painting, singing, writing, and performing music, entertaining, cooking.

Works well with: Working moms, moms with young children, creative and passionate women.

Year of Loss: 2012 when my children were 10 and 12 years old