by Elizabeth Siegel Cohen, Illness, Loss and Spiritual Support Coordinator

How do you heal after a loss? You may have heard the adage that time heals all wounds. But does it? I don’t believe time, alone, heals wounds; it is what you choose to do with the time. We offer many ways to address your loss; to find your Shalom (peace).

“Nechama: To Comfort the Bereaved Among Us” are classes held in area synagogues for the newly bereaved. Nechama is an opportunity for you to join  with other mourners and learn hands-on tools and information about the grief and mourning process, as well as Jewish resources to support you on your journey.  

You may also find your Shalom by attending a grief group where you meet with other members of the community who are affected by similar kinds of losses. Together over several weeks, through tears, talking, sharing strategies and spiritual resources, you begin to see a path through your individual healing journey. 

A Help and Healing Workshop could be another path to finding your peace. Each workshop is led by a professional and features a discussion about a book on illness or loss, or is focused on Jewish meditation, music or art therapy.

This year the illness, loss and spiritual support is offering yet another way for you to find peace. Shalom Rav (abundant peace) will be a day filled with reflection, community support, learning and the sharing of experiences and hope. We invite you or someone you know to this day of healing where a wide variety of options to help you include art, meditation, Jewish text, poetry, contemplative walking and yoga. Shalom Rav will be held on Sunday, November 1, from 9:30 am to 4 pm at the Elaine Kersten Children’s Center, 255 Revere Drive in Northbrook. 

It takes a long time to heal after a loss—often much longer than you or others around you may anticipate. Illness, loss and spiritual support is ready to provide help and support along the way. For more information about upcoming programs, visit jcfs.org.

May you find your Shalom.