Recently I had to say a painful earthly goodbye to one of my dearest uncles. He passed shortly after Thanksgiving, after spending 9 challenging days in the hospital ICU. It was the first Thanksgiving meal he did not celebrate at my home since becoming a Florida resident. I am so grateful to have been able to share my life with this beautiful, thoughtful, generous, funny, quirky, kind, and loving man.

I have taken some time for myself to allow grief to move through. I canceled and rescheduled my appointments. I declined social engagements. I am moving more slowly and listening more deeply. While my mind replays some of the more traumatic events of the past few weeks, I rely on my spirit to fill me with the unquestionable love that my uncle had/has for me and for my children.

I have supported numerous loved ones as they loosen their earthly ties in order to take flight to the other side. It is holy work. I massage feet and legs, gaze deeply into their eyes, arrange the bedsheets and pillows more comfortably, provide nourishment, and speak the healing words I believe their souls need to hear. Mostly though, I just sit at the bedside in stillness, holding their hand.

Just like in this photo, where I hold my precious uncle’s hand in mine. A simple photo capturing a sacred moment.

If you are grieving this holiday season, please know you are surrounded by love and spirit, guides and angels, ancestors and loved ones on the other side. You are never alone. Take the time and space you need to allow grief to move through.

And if I can be of any support to you on your journey, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Warmly,

Stephanie