Compassion Summer 2023

25 tcf.org.uk TCF NEWS | SUPPORTIVE EVENTS We run regular online support groups for bereaved siblings (18yrs+ ), and offer occasional retreats, walks and more. Find out more at tcf.org.uk/support-sibling A wee reflection on my way home This weekend I met my people I sat with them I talked with them I Laughed with them I Cried with them Skipped the small talk Straight to the tough stuff; The things others don’t want to hear Things that are too much for others The stuff that we’ve been trying so desperately not to say, Because others simply don't get it This weekend I met my people People who get it People who know No apologising Or explanations Out with this community I don’t know them They don’t know me But ... I saw there sadness And I showed them a little of mine A part of me is missing And a part of them too Knowing glances Gentle smiles and open hearts This weekend I met my people They said the names of their brothers and sisters They asked about their death And asked about their life ... It's taken 22 years But this weekend I met my people Joanne - one of the volunteers at the retreat - wrote this poem straight after the weekend... “ Thank you for the planning, organizing and running the sessions. All of them were really useful/helpful and I think having the prompts/topics but the freedom to explore them more widely was really useful. The memory cafes were brilliant too – it was lovely to focus on who she was not how she died and the grief. The crafts were also absolutely brilliant – it was great to have someone to focus on/create and the conversation which opened up around that were really natural and helpful. Essentially though, just thank you. The grief is still very fresh and warm and being in such a friendly environment was super helpful." Siblings Together