Third Wednesday of Month (FMM) - Peer-Led Support Topic Meeting - January

Our topic this month is: "Looking for Seeds of Hope"

We recognize that many widows lose hope after the death of their partners--this is a completely normal reaction after loss.

How can we help one another learn that struggling with grief and fostering hope are not mutually exclusive?

We start this month's topic meeting defining hope (trust that things are going to get better), and how to be open to pursuing it. Our first steps might be small and short-lived, but we need to find ways to both nurture hope and restore it.

During these topic meetings--and with support and encouragement from one another--we will focus on both looking for and nurturing the Seeds of Hope.

You will learn that "Hope Springs Eternal" for widows too!

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In preparation for these meetings Our Topic Committee volunteers suggest that you bring paper and pen to the meetings.

In addition, they suggest the following articles:

LifeHack.org, What to Do with Your Life When All Hope is Lost

Center for Loss, Nurturing Hope in Difficult Times

Toolshero.com, Snyder's Hope Theory

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Or, you can listen to Dawn's Video on the topic, here

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Co-Leaders:  Mary & Ilene

Mary Smith zooming in from Rockville Center, NY

About me: I am a lifelong learner -- a perfect match as an educator and former corporate mainstay.  As an active member of my local community, you can find me volunteering as a literacy coach, working with English language learners, keeping up to date on current events, or attending art lectures.  Or you might find me at a favorite rock concert singing the night away.

Interests: music, traveling, socializing, volunteering

Works well with: retired career widows, widows with grown children, and  caregivers 

Ilene Frisher zooming in from Bayville, NY

About me:  I have 2 grandchildren that fill my heart with joy! I am also a retired Registered Dietitian and Diabetes Educator, active volunteer for The W connection and MJHS hospice. I’ve been blessed with a wonderful family and wonderful friends, some of whom I met through the W connection.

Interests: Travel, theater, golf, kayaking and I recently entered into a new loving relationship.
 

Works well with: widows hoping to create new lives, new friendships, and new relationships.

Year of Loss: 2014