About My Journey…

When I was growing up my family helped me to understand the importance of kindness and forgiveness.

Now in my work, I am honored to walk with families as they go through challenging experiences together. The skills of forgiveness have proven time and time again to be a necessary ingredient in how a family heals together at times of change or loss.

I truly believe that forgiveness can heal families and communities at powerful levels.

I’ve also seen how personal forgiveness work clears out the body, making room for joy. By letting go of the heavy weight of shame, anger, or self-doubt, we allow space for peace of mind and body.

My Forgiveness Story…

I’ve had conversations with hundreds of families about the hardship of loss, grief, and forgiveness. I have also experienced firsthand the impossible demands as a caregiver in my own family. 

This is a picture of me and my mother. When she died at age 56 I didn’t think I could make peace with the past. I resented being a caregiver to my mother for most of my young life. I missed out on knowing myself because my time was never my own. But then my mom died. She was free from her suffering and a chronic illness. I was left with the anger and grief. I now carried her suffering in addition to my own. The weight of my own grief and resentment felt like an anvil on my chest. I had no other choice but to forgive so I could live a life filled with the joy I wanted, and I know my mother wanted for me. 

I finally realized that reconciliation with the past was the only way to set myself free and to experience true deep healing. 

In retrospect, in addition to a long-term illness, I now recognize my mother had undiagnosed mental health problems that she hid with addictictive behaviors. She did not get the support she needed as a child after her father died, nor as a young single mother. Before understanding this, I resented her for not being the parent I needed. I resented her illness because I didn't have the education I needed.

Practicing loving kindness I was able to remember that my mother was more than the broken parts. She was also great fun and laughed at everything. She encouraged me to explore and learn about the diversity in all people and places. I began to love her in a new way after she died. I saw her abilities instead of her failures. I was not always able to love her in life as much as I did in death. I know she understands. Anger and grief were no longer at the center of my life.

I was able honor my feelings with self compassion, honor my body with a more peaceful state of mind.

I am thankful I have a mindful practice giving myself loving kindness. 

Are you ready to transform your own life through self-compassion and forgiveness?

Schedule a free 15-minute phone appointment to discuss any questions you might have. Join a class ! 415-244-3696