When my journey through the wilderness of grief began in June 2019, I didn’t know if I would make it through the forest alive. Writing became my outlet for everything I was feeling and was my therapy of sorts. What began as Facebook posts has migrated to this blog site. If my journey can help one other person realize that they are not alone in what they are feeling, then this terrible thing called grief will not have been in vain.
The pain of grief changed when I started practicing gratitude. Taking my mind off myself and focusing on what I was grateful for literally changed my outlook on life.
Now in 2021 although grief will never entirely go away, it has lessened to a certain extent – except for anniversaries and certain memories that pop up. I can talk about my love Larry without crying inconsolably and smile and laugh at silly memories. I am grateful that he taught me so many lessons.
Now I crave only the peace that comes after a long journey from darkness to light.
I will not let anything or anyone separate me from peace.
But still she stood, ready to get back at it. Badass and admirable.”
― Cristin Harber, Delta: Redemption
My writing style can best be described as “whatever is in my head.” It is a combination of light and dark, hopeful and apathetic, praise and profanity.
Certainly not for the faint of heart.
I am honest to a fault and will not tolerate those who do not extend the same courtesy.
That was the trouble with explaining with words. If you explained with gunpowder, people listened.”
― Dean F. Wilson, Dustrunner
I am a mother to two grown children, two bonus children, and two former bonus children, all whom I love deeply. I have five grandchildren with a sixth on the way and a fur-baby. A widow, (I list that last because I will not let the term define me), and a friend who wears her heart on her sleeve (but I know my heart belongs in my chest where it’s protected- working on that).
My new husband Bill helps me feel cherished. He doesn’t mind if I talk about Larry and that endears him to me even more.
I also have a wonderful support system with my family, friends, Badass Soul Sisters Tribe, and my loyal followers here on WordPress – many whom I think of as friends.
Originally from a small town in Ohio called Bucyrus, I have been a resident of the Cleveland metropolitan area for the last 25 years. Truly a country mouse in the big city, and I love it!
What People Say on Social…
“Lisa, your posts are so inspiring. Thank you so much for sharing yourself with us! ❤️❤️❤️”
“I look forward to your blog and knowing you better since I am far away. So glad you and Larry found each other.”
“Hugs friend …this is beautiful”
“I am glad you are finding yourself again! Stay strong and sending you hugs and lots of love!”
“Sorrow is beautiful because it comes from great love…”
“So helpful to you & me. Thank you!”
“Your words are so beautiful…the love you share expressed so beautifully…we all are following your grief and feelings and it’s so touching. Thanks for letting us see this beautiful sorrow and happiness. Thinking of you.”
WordPress Mentions
“In her blog, Lisa invites us to accompany her on an unflinching journey from devastating grief, through the process of climbing through the ashes, rising to embrace healing. In doing so, Lisa discovers that healing after loss doesn’t mean leaving her love behind but rather allows her to honor him, his life and their love, more fully. With raw honesty, the bravery of vulnerability and the sheer strength of an indomitable spirit, she tackles lifes most difficult journey.”
-Laura All the Shoes I Wear blog
Thank you for reading, liking (if you do), and commenting!
I will be honored if you choose to follow!
XO Lisa Mae ❤️ living a gratitude filled life!
Grateful, Thankful, and Mending! 