Hello, Craftonians! On this episode of our Happy Time Craftcast, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with someone who’s not only a cherished friend but also a prolific author and an inspiring educator—Lisa M. Bolt Simons. Lisa’s journey through life, marked by both creativity and grief, brings a special resonance to our conversation.
Creativity Meets Grief: A Beautiful Paradox. Lisa’s story starts with a heartbreaking event—losing her father in a plane crash at the tender age of three and a half. This tragic moment introduced her to the lifelong ebb and flow of grief, which she describes as a complex and intricate dance. Rather than moving past grief, Lisa has woven it into the fabric of her life, helping others navigate their sorrow through her "Shadows and Sunlight" workshops.
A Safe Space to Share and Heal. During our talk, Lisa shared the touching details of these workshops. They’re far from your typical support group. Imagine a room where you can share your deepest losses through writing, connect over stories that make you laugh and cry, and create a community where everyone understands that grief and joy can coexist. Lisa’s approach provides a comforting beacon for many, showing that even in loss, we can find sparks of happiness and laughter.
Crafting to Cope. We also dove into how creativity serves as a soothing balm for the soul. Picture this: each workshop begins with making a handmade journal. It’s a simple activity that breaks the ice and gently eases participants into the emotional journey ahead. This beautiful blend of crafting and healing truly embodies the spirit of our podcast, illustrating how creativity isn’t just a hobby—it’s a powerful form of therapy.
A Journey of Insights and Impact. The insights Lisa shared about handling grief, like the importance of understanding the impact of our words and finding various outlets to express our emotions, are truly invaluable. Her personal and professional commitment to supporting others in their grief is not just admirable but incredibly impactful.
Wrapping Up with Heart and Craft. This episode with Lisa M. Bolt Simons wasn’t just another podcast; it was a journey through the heart of creativity and the complexities of grief. For anyone touched by loss or looking to help others in their grief journey, Lisa’s story and our discussion offer a heartfelt exploration of how community and creativity can provide strength and solace.
So, grab your favorite crafting tools, maybe start your own grief journal, and let’s continue making art that heals. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and through our creative community, we can share, heal, and maybe even find a little sunshine. Thanks for tuning in, and keep crafting a beautiful life!
Check out Lisa’s work and connect with her via her website and social.
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Joleen's Happy Time Craftcast streams live every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. Don't miss out on the fun and inspiration - sign up here for notifications and be the first to know about new episodes!