So this weekend is Easter for many people. In this culture that means lots of turkey, chocolate egg hunts, getting together with family and friends, and going to church. For others, these dominant cultural holidays can be quite triggering. It might remind them of the oppression and prejudice they feel from not being mainstream. Or it could bring up sadness and loss of a loved one who has passed away and will be missed. My invitation to you is to think of Easter as a time of hope, rebirth and love. Michael Michenbaum wrote in his book "The Road to Resilience" that we are more resilient as human beings than we realize. Only 1.7% of New Yorkers had PTSD 6 months after the terrible events of 9/11. When we see the snowdrops blooming at this time of year after such a harsh winter and we see the birth of new animals and plants we can be reminded that life is a journey and, for the most part, living things are resilient and love heals. If you don't have family to celebrate with then take a walk in nature and let the energy of the living, breathing plants soothe you. Find things that make you feel hopeful and remember that our cells are always being replaced and our minds have more plasticity than we previously thought. We can create new neuropathways and think differently about ourselves and heal our bodies with exercise and good nutrition. And that is a type of hope, love and rebirth that I wish for everyone!
When Kate and David Ogg were told their newborn son Jamie had passed away on March 25, 2010, they took him in their arms and cradled him to keep him warm
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