Together We Are Stronger!
My Interdependent Communities Helped Me Manage My Grief!
Estimated reading time: 1 minute, 45 seconds
Belonging to various communities is essential for our overall well-being in countless ways. I am grateful to be part of a faith community, Temple Sha’arey Shalom, that provided immense support during a challenging time. When I lost Jan, my faith was my only solace, and the kindness and support of Rabbi Renee and my fellow congregants made a significant impact.
- Despite my lack of formal training, I lead two grief support groups. Assisting others has helped me manage my grief and grow through it.
- I am also proud to volunteer and will soon serve as a board member of Bridges Outreach, an organization dedicated to ending homelessness. The dedication and passion of the staff, board, volunteers, and homeless individuals are truly inspiring.
- In addition to these endeavors, I helped create a beautiful memorial garden for Jan and have connected neighbors with various resources.
- Recently, I represented Temple Sha’arey Shalom at the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism’s Day of Action on the climate emergency, advocating for climate action and recognizing that we only have one planet.
Losing Jan, my beloved partner, was a difficult challenge, but I found support in various communities that helped me move forward. This experience taught me the value of connecting with different communities, which has positively impacted my mental and physical health.
I am committed to staying involved in my community network and making positive changes in the world. I know Jan would have wanted me to live this way, and I am determined to honor her memory by embracing her life and carrying her spirit with me.
The Jan Lilien Education Fund sponsors ongoing sustainability and environmental awareness programs. Gifts made this month; I will match dollar-for-dollar. All donations are tax-deductible.
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I Live in Community and Reside in My Home!
As Charlie Padavano says to Sylvie, one of his daughters, in Hello Beautiful, "We're separated from the world by our own edges. We're all interconnected, and when you see that, you see how beautiful life is."
As a widow, it is sometimes difficult for me to appreciate the beauty of life without my beloved partner, Jan. However, I am learning to take things one day at a time and embrace life to the fullest. Although Jan's loss can never be replaced, I feel fortunate to have a supportive network that allows me to keep her spirit alive and share her love with others.
We can face life alone in fear or unite and support one another. For me, living interdependently in multiple communities has helped manage my grief..
