Loving amidst loss
My new book: Finding Your Authentic Self: An Illustrated Journey to Well-being
Thank you to everyone who’s ordered a copy and left a review. Your support means a lot to me and helps the book reach even more people.
Hello friends,
It’s been a tough few weeks but I’m learning to float across the turbulent waters. Balancing supporting loved ones with caring for my own needs. Writing and drawing have been helping me process. I’ve posted links below to two pieces that emerged. Perhaps they’ll resonate with those of you who are also navigating loss of some form. A gentle reminder to be kind and patient with ourselves.
I’m grateful for the support of many friends. The check-ins, offers to buy food, gift of Audible - your care and generosity have been giving me and my family strength. My therapist has also been very helpful. It’s nice to be surrounded by people who can listen deeply, sit with me in these heavy feelings, and offer new perspective.
New posts
My friend, the End - a short uplifting poem about the beauty that endings bring.
Loving amidst loss - A loved one passed away unexpectedly last week. A reflection on how embracing grief has been giving me the heartspace to honour a life well-lived.
Creative inspiration
Some playful artwork from the past few weeks:
Treasures I’ve found recently
I’ve been enamoured by the gentle ethereal artistry of Ichiko Aoba - a Japanese folk singer-songwriter who infuses fictional worlds with warm jazz, guitar, and lyrics honouring nature. This video essay is a great introduction to her world. Below is a concert of her latest album “Asleep Among Endives”.
3 Body Problem (Netflix) - Based on the Hugo-winning science fiction book by Chinese author Liu Cixin. I appreciated the vivid depiction of the Cultural Revolution, an event that few talk about openly in China but has left deep collective trauma. The story spans several timelines and moves across geographies, circling around the mysterious death of physicists and an existential planetary threat. Talented multi-cultural cast, high production value, and thrilling story.
This silly graffiti:
Questions I’ll leave you with
What practices or support have you found most helpful in navigating endings, loss, and grief?
What are helpful ways to support others?
I’d love to hear from you - feel free to reply privately or in the comments.
Until next time,
Jessica