In my office, I have a small hanging with a quote inscribed by HH the Dalai Lama titled The Truth Meaning of Life.

“We are visitors on this planet. We are here for ninety or one hundred years at the very most. During that period, we must try to do something good, something useful, with our lives. If you contribute to other people’s happiness, you will find the true goal, the true meaning of life.”

As we enter the winter months and hit 9 months of being in the midst of a global pandemic, these words are somewhat difficult to hear as oftentimes, under immense stress, sadness, and changes, contributing to other people’s happiness and doing something useful with our own lives – sounds immensely daunting. Especially when we must make sacrifices, social distance/physically distance, and make incredibly tough decisions.

All of this may increase the feelings of helplessness and hopelessness from previous trauma and experiences of loss – believe me, I’ve been there. As a young widow, I know how loss and trauma can exacerbate anxiety and make you feel that it is quite impossible to move forward in any way.

I also know that it is possible and that you are able to move forward and even create something wonderful in your life and discover the true meaning of life. The movement may be slight and small and this is okay! Remember, our body and our mind at times can only process the small steps but once you take that first small step – maybe it is just a shower in the morning (believe me – no judgment and I certainly have been there!!) – your mind begins to wake up and begins to connect to your body and connect to your spirit. This small step may mean that over the next week, you take a walk, connect to nature, get a smile (or eyes smiling – wear a mask!) from a stranger. Then maybe this is enough for a while and this too is okay.

The work I focus on with my clients is creating those little moments where we can allow our body to begin breathing again. Creating a space that is safe for you to share and to create movement when you are ready. I am here to help you create anew, to find your meaning, to hold your hope when you are struggling, and to help you discover your personal path and ways of growth.

I’m here when you’re ready.

• Jesi