Friends of California Grief Center,

2025 has already felt like a ship caught in a relentless storm, waves of natural disasters battering its sides while political upheaval churns the waters into chaos. The horizon offers no clear skies, only the looming threat of deeper tempests, leaving us adrift with fear about what lies beyond. And yet, even as the tides pull us apart, we cling to one another like sailors in a lifeboat, hoping our shared humanity will keep us afloat.

Navigating the Depths: How Suffering Shapes the Mind

Suffering reshapes our experience of the world, often narrowing our perspective and leaving us feeling overwhelmed. Yet with support and practice, these challenging experiences can lead to deeper understanding and healing. The HOPE Group creates space to explore this journey together.

When suicidal thoughts appear, they can feel all-encompassing, as though they define our reality and leave no room for hope. These thoughts often arise from deep pain and a longing for relief, not necessarily a desire to die. By gently acknowledging their presence and exploring the emotions beneath them, we can begin to reconnect with a sense of possibility, allowing light to re-enter the spaces that feel darkest. Through mindful awareness, compassion, and shared humanity, we create the conditions for healing to unfold.

For four years, the HOPE Group (Healing Ourselves Through the Present Experience) has offered a sanctuary for those seeking to meet suffering with mindfulness and connection. Through meditation, shared silence, and reflection, we practice staying present with our experiences while supporting one another.

January HOPE Group This Saturday

Join us for this month's virtual HOPE Group on Saturday, January 25th from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM PT. Dr. Jamie Gamboa will guide "The Silent Cry: A Mindful Journey Through Suicidal Pain," exploring how mindfulness practices can help us face profound struggles with courage and connection.

Register Here 

Upcoming Opportunities for Connection

California Grief Center (www.caligrief.org) offers:

• Individual grief counseling with Brian Stefan, LCSW

• Mindfulness-Based Grief Relief (MBGR) weekly groups

• Monthly HOPE Group sessions (recorded and shared for educational purposes)

Register for February 22nd HOPE Group

With care and hope,

Brian

P.S. To sign up for Brian’s weekly “Mindful Grief” newsletter, click here.