Thank you for the words of encouragement. I know I was cryptic about the traumas happening, other than mentioning one death in our community. There were actually two deaths in the community during this time period, but one was an elder and not unexpected, though it still caused it's own ripples. The traumas in our family are not dealing with death but rather dealing with things that I am not at liberty to discuss here, but I can say that the deaths were the easiest parts of what we are dealing with!
I agree with you wholeheartedly that none of us is ever gone. I have taught all my children that if you love someone, then you are together forever in your hearts, and no amount of miles or time will ever truly separate you. I have not ever performed a ritual to be able to hear the voices of loved ones passed on, but perhaps one day I will share the story of my best friend speaking to me long after his death in a moment that saved my own life!
Thank you so much again for sharing to uplift my tattered heart.