I am always hopeful when I send these notes that you're doing well and leaning toward the Light.
As for me, I am doing well and am looking forward to spring in the Great North. Two days ago we heard a flock of Canadian Geese fly overhead so I think that might be a sign. Spring is on its way!
One of the greatest joys in my life has been my service to others as a spiritual companion. As I have spent thousands of hours (sacred time!) with others bearing witness to their healing journeys, I
have experienced much healing myself. I think this is how it works—how life works.
• As we give
generously to others, our own well-being is enhanced.
• As we love others wholeheartedly, we find we are able to love ourselves more.
• As we support others in deepening their spiritual lives, we come to know the Divine for ourselves in ever new ways.
These days there is so much loss all around us. Grief is everywhere as we come to terms with all the things we must let go of each day. Loved ones. Our youth. Careers. Health. Financial security. Just to name a few.
And as I age, there is a great coming to terms with my mortality too. I've never thought as much about not being here on the earth as I do now. Life feels very fragile and precious! I truly try to savor each moment.
What helps when I get sad about this, or fearful, or worried about my future? What's helped me come to terms with loss and the prospect of future loss? Even my own
passing?
Grief education.
It has made all the difference in my world. And it returns me daily to gratitude, awe, wonder, and, yes, joy. Even when loss is present.
In 2023, I founded The Metta Center to offer Grief Companion Training. This program offers grief awareness education at its finest. Featuring the best and most current research on grief and how to navigate it
healthfully, including the practices we can use to transform our losses into fuel for living meaningful lives.
AND, AND, helping others do the same
by sharing what we've learned through offering compassionate presence and a listening heart.
The next session of Grief Companion Training starts soon. I'd love it if you would take a few moments to consider if Grief Companioning might be your next bravest calling.
With gratitude and metta (loving-kindness),
Jan
Grief Companion Training
March - June, 2024
An online learning opportunity in
community via Zoom
Grief changes and transforms us. Our lives are never the same once we have lost someone or something precious to us. Our journey of loss and pain is made easier with the presence of one who
genuinely cares, listens deeply, and holds space for healing to happen. One whose compassion is boundless, whose listening never tires, whose companionship is loyal and true. Being listened to and cared for in this way is an act of love--the greatest gift of all.
You may know the great value of having an empathetic guide to walk with you on your life's path. When grief and loss are involved, companionship becomes even more important. It is easy for someone to get lost in the wilderness of grief; to feel alone, misunderstood, even crazy, especially in a culture which does not normalize grief, nor truly understands its scope and purpose. An individual with specialized training in grief and bereavement can be of the highest service to someone in mourning—a true spiritual companion.
Have you ever felt a call to companion others in their time of loss?
Perhaps you are ready to become a Certified Grief Companion.
