While it is the season of love, this episode truly embodies every aspect of love. Love of self, love of others, and love of God. Many people want to sell you a story, but today’s guest is leaving a legacy.
If this week proved anything, it’s that I need to upgrade my winter gear and podcast equipment. If I stay in Kansas City another winter, I must invest in truly cold-weather winter gear. Mine don’t do the job. If I am going to continue being a podcaster, I am going to have to invest in better gear and technology. While there are moments the sound isn’t the best, I think this is one of the best episodes for vulnerability, grief, and recovery.
Vulnerability warning: We discuss situations around death, religion, and God. At times in my life, I have opposed hearing these messages. However, I think it’s critical to understand others and how they maintain faith in challenging times. As I’ve said before, Tom Petty is my higher power. When I first got sober, I had to identify something. I believe an aspect of emotional sobriety is being open and willing to listen to different stories, so if the reference to God is triggering for you, I would encourage you to replace the name with someone or something else. We all have to believe in something!
In this conversation, VerCora Herbert Johnson of Ardmore, OK, shares her profound journey through grief, motherhood, and faith. She reflects on the early loss of her mother and brother, the transformative experience of becoming a mother at a young age, and how her faith has shaped her understanding of love and loss. VerCora discusses the importance of vulnerability, the impact of grief on relationships, and the healing power of writing and mindfulness. She emphasizes the necessity of authentic conversations about grief and the importance of breathing through pain as a means of navigating life's challenges.
Key Takeaways
Motherhood can be a transformative experience that reshapes one's perspective on love and life.
Grief is a complex journey that requires time, patience, and understanding.
Faith can provide strength and guidance during the darkest times.
Writing and journaling can be powerful tools for processing emotions and experiences.
It's essential to redefine what strength and vulnerability mean in the context of grief.
Authentic conversations about loss can foster connection and healing.
Breathwork and mindfulness practices can help navigate emotional pain.
Loss can lead to a deeper understanding of love and relationships.
It's important to allow oneself to feel and express emotions openly.
Finding purpose in pain can lead to personal growth and resilience.
Navigating Grief: VerCora's Journey of Healing
The Transformative Power of Motherhood
Sound Bites
"I found love all over again."
"This is my new normal."
"I trust you to fix it."
Journal Prompts:
What is your practice for noticing distracting thought patterns? What is your response to them?
How do you define being vulnerable?
What traumatic situations have you endured that you need to process and release from your mind and body?
References & Recommended Readings:
Where to Find Us:
VerCora Johnson: VerCora's Shop mshoneybeezshop@gmail.com
Share this post