RECEIVING SUPPORT WHEN I’M USED TO PROVIDING IT

Melody and her mom, Grace

By: Melody Logan, Director of Programs

My mother died on Christmas Day and I returned to groups in January in all of my grief. 

As I stood in the opening circle and we went around and everyone shared the name of their special person, I felt deeper and more empathy for them than ever before. When it came to my turn to share, I opened my mouth and began to cry. 

It took a minute but I shared, “My special person is my mom, she died on Christmas Day. Her name was Grace.†

I didn’t realize what would happen next. 

Throughout the night I had numerous people, young and old, come to me and give me a hug or share their condolences. One little boy came up and gave me a hug, looked up at me, and said, “I’m sorry about your mom. I know what you’re going through.” 

This little boy touched my heart deeply, because one reason that I have such a passion to support grieving children is that my dad’s father died when my dad was just 7 years old. He had no support so he never was able to process his grief.

I thought to myself: Wow, I feel so very supported and if this is the support that our families feel when they come to Billy’s Place, then we are accomplishing our mission. I felt like a peer for the first time and not just a staff member. I was receiving support and not just helping to provide it. 

There is no doubt that I will be even more committed than ever before to provide a safe space for our families to receive the support that they need on their grief journey. I love working at Billy’s Place.  

With a grateful heart, Melody.