When I saw the image of the empty Christmas light frame pictured above, it resonated with me. I had many plans this past year, but the story that I told, and am a part of, is very different from what I had envisioned. We never know, do we? Have you ever said, “There is a season for everything, but this is not what I had planned!”?

Personal Journey

There were two tragic unexpected deaths in our community and two close friends got very ill. These happenings helped me understand anew how precious relationships are. Every moment together counts. I have been so comforted by Father God and dear ones through these times.

In addition, my Mom almost died twice. Thankfully, her declining health led Home Care to intervene. Within a week, she was assessed and we moved her to long-term care. I am so glad to say that this whirlwind transition went very well and she is doing much better now. We can rest in the care she now has.

Unexpectedly, these changes in Mom brought the realization that my brother and I are now the main decision-makers in our family. We cannot rely on Mom now. Plus, the shift away from high-alert caregiving brought unanticipated social anxiety for me, as well as a hesitancy to relax. I am out of practice!

For my own health, I got to find a new doctor and support.  Dr. Young, Lifemark, and www.lifestylerx.io helped me shift my Type 2, release forty pounds, and recuperate from a concussion.

Mentally and emotionally, I also grieved several things: For who my Mom was, who I was before Mom got ill, as well as for the many opportunities I had to pass on, and for the friends who were ill. At times, it was hard to continue. So, I found a new therapist and a grief group. As I processed these losses with them, I became more confident again in my abilities and my voice.

Professional Journey

Professionally, I got to turn down opportunities for work and income, in order to care for me, friends, and family. This was very difficult, but eventually, I could see that there are seasons of life when it looks different.

I am grateful I could continue to write at all times. However because writing is an activity I do alone, I struggled to let go of social opportunities. Eventually, though, I did. It was a temporary shift I knew that was best.

I also found that it is true that when the student is ready, the teacher appears. When I had taken my crime mystery as far as I could, I found a television writing mentor through Stage 32. She helped me rewrite the first episode (pilot). With her guidance, I am writing with greater skill now.

John and I also found a book author whom both of us instantly felt a connection with. We have been to her private writing workshops, where we have been amazed at how she has impacted us in profound ways.

In addition, through a study book on comedy, I was reminded of a writing exercise to process thoughts and feelings. It’s called Morning Pages. Since starting this practice again, I have gotten back in touch with my inner funny. Our comedy is now developed to the point where it can be pitched to networks.

I am also excited to share that the company that I am now a Certified Coach with, Certified Flourishing Coach, opened up an opportunity for new coaches like me to be mentored by seasoned coaches. I have started to prepare with a team for the New Year.

What I learned

Although I was disappointed that I needed to pause several efforts to merge our storytelling with wellness coaching, I now know more deeply that there are seasons in life: There is a time to plant and a time to reap. A time to grieve and a time to celebrate. It is good. I have stopped promising to do what I cannot do. Now, I am honest with myself and others about the time of life I am in.

Through this all, many of you have been very understanding and I am grateful. The pressure to perform has lifted. And I have gained a greater compassion for myself and for all those who are grieving. Especially during this Christmas Season.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!