Dear Friends,
We are fast approaching one year under the shadow of Covid-19. Our TIDES families are all in the midst of their grief journeys, including angelversaries, difficult times, and a deep sense of loss. In this time of a pandemic those losses are multiplied causing additional sadness, stress, isolation and adaptations. The death of a loved one brings about strong emotions, radical changes, and voids that cause stress and fear and confusion and exhaustion – emotional and physical. Add in winter – and what a winter we had! The weight of it all can be too much to manage.
This past year has been a complicated, unprecedented year. If this is also your first year of dealing with the loss of a loved one, you understand the heaviness of each day. Grief is enough to deal with, let alone all these other losses. Some have been unable to engage in “normal” funeral practices and had to postpone services for their loved one. People cannot come and hold them. Covid-19 and winter keep you isolated when you need human contact. You can’t meet a friend for coffee or travel to see family. The loneliness of grief is intensified because of these restrictions. Like the snow that is mounting up, so too, these losses mount up on top of the loss of a loved one. Loss, upon loss, upon loss.
This is not meant to add burdens but, hopefully, to acknowledge the added weight and difficulties both Covid-19 and winter bring to the grief journey. If you are grieving, please remember you are not alone. We are so grateful for our families who have the courage to join Tides and share in their grief together, while supporting one another on this turbulent journey.
We are getting through it all – one day – one breath – one moment at a time. Tides is here, will be here, to continue to companion those who need it on that turbulent journey.
Sincerely,
Evelyn Wald
Program Director
