Clare Smart. Celebrant and Blogger: Life as a Brain Cancer Carer then Young Widow/Solo Parent
At its base are several graves which have become dislodged as the tree has grown over the years. I'm struck by its beauty and power, how life and death have become intertwined. Just like life and death has become intertwined for me.
How I supported my young children in their grief by listening, adapting and utilsing play therapy.
Sympathy cards were comforting - and they were also jarring reminders of my new reality. I felt numb following my husband's funeral. Although the brain cancer rollercoaster ride had ended - I was not ready to disembark from the ride and face all the aspects of loss. I was shaken. I was afraid that if I stood... Continue Reading →
Accepting that just like there can be "four seasons in one day"when grieving
there can be "many emotions in one day".
The kids and I miss my late husband every day. We feel his absence. So many triggers. Yet I am grateful for all the memories and the moments. Even though it hurts. I'm grateful for the love. Grief is missing. And Missing is Love. "I believe in missing things. I enjoy the feeling of missing. It doesn't have to imply... Continue Reading →
A list of some of my favourite books & blogs. But first... Support groups didn't work for me during the different phases of my journey as a brain cancer carer and then young widow and single mum. Mick and I did not have the time or the headspace to join a brain cancer support group... Continue Reading →
As each year has gone by since my husband passed, I have asked myself many questions: Will grief get any easier? Will the pain and hurt lessen? Will my energy return? Will I really and truly belly laugh again and enjoy a moment that is not bittersweet? Am I on track? Is it ok that... Continue Reading →
"It took me three years to develop my own model or interpretation of my journey with grief when I found a photo of a labyrinth"
When my husband died, I felt numb and trepidation at the thought of being with grief and facing many dimensions of loss.
This is what I heard deep within - whenever I had a moment to listen.
Rainbows & Rollercoasters 