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Reader of the Week

Loss Hurts; Gratitude Heals

By Myrtle Russell

Loss is hard. It doesn’t discriminate; regardless of the circumstances, it never seems fair. Unfortunately, it comes to us all, and the amount of loss we experience depends on how long we live. I’ve experienced more than my share of loss, but over the years, it has taught me some things: Every loss sets the stage for a new beginning, and gratitude makes adjusting to the new beginning easier. Gratitude helps us through the grieving process and lays the foundation for healing.

I recently lost a 34-year-old cousin. She was a loving daughter, sister, niece, friend, and devoted mother to two beautiful children. Her death was quick and unexpected. It left family and friends in shock and folks in the community shaking their heads. Anytime we lose loved ones, we feel alone and isolated, like no one else can understand what we’re going through. It can cause us to withdraw and hold on to the pain by ourselves. It leaves many of us with feelings of disbelief, anger, guilt, and sadness, all swirling inside us simultaneously.

Loss sometimes makes us forget that we are all humanly connected social beings. Because we all need each other, sharing our pain brings comfort when we need it the most. While quiet time is necessary to process our thoughts and bring focus to what is essential, too much time alone is not healthy when it comes to coping with loss.

After learning to live gratefully, I think of what I have left each time I’ve lost anyone or anything. Does it minimize the loss? No. What it does is help me realize that despite everything, what I have left is more than enough to keep me moving forward. Here are a few other valuable small change blessons (lessons and blessings)

5/25

Tamara Shivers - Up thanking God for allowing my Big Baby to see another Birthdayyyyy!!! Happy Birthday Da’trell Jenkins ( my twin) may God bless you to see many more... I love you to Life

Happy Birthday to You!!

Tori Haliburton- Wishing my Lane Dad President Glenn Vaulx a happy birthday. Thank you for always pushing us to go and grow! We love you! There is nothing like a Lane Man… nothing. Love, The Baby Girl!

Happy Anniversary!!

5/18

Tonya - Happy 28th Birthday Trey …. Love You Ma’.

5/25

Tracy Wade - Hunter - Today is a special for me. It’s my Anniversary to my husband Kevin. 11 years down and many more to come. I love you Kevin for making me your wife.

5/21

Tori Haliburton- Happy Birthday Sis. I pray heavy favor over you today and everyday!

Can’t wait to visit you!

Love you Kemisha Roston

5/23

Big thanks to my cafeteria staff at Humboldt High School for celebrating our birthday today. Thanks for all y’all do. Pictured are: ( l to r) Willie Harris (July 18), cafeteria manager Teresa Marable (5/30) and Connie Bryson (6/13).

DR. MORAGNE HONORED

Congratulations to The Jackson, TN Chapter of The Links, Incorporated Chapter President Dr. Mechelle Moragne on her Silver Anniversary from Meherry Medical College. Thank you for all that you do in West Tennessee. #calinks, #linksinc