Kelly Corrigan, in her moving video essay “Transcending: Words on Women and Strength” describes how, when faced with adversity, “we will rally around, and hold each other up.” The comments to Sheryl’s post from so many other members share personal experiences, support and learning. I’m overwhelmed by the powerful human connection made possible by a virtual medium.
Late last night Sheryl Sandberg commented on a beautiful post Laura Wellington wrote a about the challenges faced by the members of “The Exclusive Club Sheryl Sandberg Never Wanted to Join“.
Laura Wellington is right – this is a club that no one wants to join. Laura, I am sorry for your loss – and my heart goes out to the many women around the world who have experienced this loss too. I learned from your advice and I am sharing it here so others can learn too. My condolences to you – and my gratitude.
Laura quotes the numbers of others facing the price of this club membership:
There are approximately 29,000 other women under the age of 49 and living in the United States that can claim the same. They make up an exclusive club none of us ever wanted to become part of. We became members anyway and so did our kids.
And shares wisdom:
1. Take time to grieve…
2. It is important that your children know Dave, even if he can’t be around to share.
3. Establish traditions that keep Dave in your children’s lives throughout their youth.
4. Kids need time alone with you and you with them.
5. Others will assume that you and your kids are feeling the loss exactly like them.
6. Take baby steps into your future and realize that you will make mistakes along the way.
7. Cry when you feel like it.
8. Dave was an important chapter in your life but not the end of your story.
9. Dave’s love for you and yours for him that will allow you to love again.
10. Finally, honor his life by living yours well and teach your children to do the same.
(Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)
Family Lives On supports the lifelong emotional wellbeing of children and teens whose mother or father has died. Available anywhere in the United States, Family Lives On serves all children & teens ages 3-18, regardless of race, gender, religion, socioeconomic status or cause of parent’s death.
The Tradition Program is grounded in research and a number of clinically identified needs in bereaved children. Traditions provide a more natural context for communication and connection, and help children to maintain a healthy emotional bond. Here’s how it works.
If you know a family whose mother or father has died, please encourage them to enroll here.
Donate to Support the Tradition Program
Family Lives On Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The Tradition Program is entirely funded through charitable donations. If you would like to help support the grieving children and families we serve, please donate here.
To learn more about the Tradition Program, please use this link.
Family Lives On Foundation 