What You’re Not Thinking About

It’s hard to believe this year is coming to a close.  This month, I’m making what feels like a brave choice to talk about something none of us want to think about:  end of life.  The inspiration for this is actually a recent project we had, to help a widower organize a celebration of life for his husband who died after fighting ALS for three years.

I know very few people who are eager to talk about the end of life–whether it be their own, or that of a loved one.  It’s a reality we all face but prefer to ignore, which is understandable.  Of course, in the case of a chronic and terminal illness, one is forced to face it.  As his husband’s health declined, our client wanted to have something productive to focus on.  Knowing that it would be challenging to “fully” plan a gathering without a date, I offered to create for him a checklist of sorts–so he could have something to focus on and be prepared when the day did come.

The day came eleven months later.  During the reception, I was chatting with the venue manager, who was experiencing her own recent loss.  She was surprised at how quickly the event came together, and asked how we did it.  I shared this story with her, and it was that conversation that inspired me to share this resource.  You’ll be able to access the checklist from the Blog Section of the Triciapedia website.  I hope you don’t need it any time soon, but if you do, please use it and share it freely.

The upcoming Winter Solstice brings to us an opportunity to accept, acknowledge and understand that (seemingly) opposite forces can exist in the same space and with the same value.  This Winter Solstice, you’re invited to pause.  To rest.  To appreciate both the darkness AND the light.  To celebrate.  To gather.  To appreciate solitude.  

As we settle into Winter here in North America, the Team here at Triciapedia marks this transition with an extended break.  During this time, each of us hope that you, too, will find joy, peace, rest, and return in the New Year with a renewed sense of hope.

We are grateful for you.