PORTLAND – Today, with the current situation in Lewiston, we are living in a state of complexity where feelings of separation, anxiety and uncertainty prevail. It seems too complicated.
These are normal feelings in abnormal times.
Community violence separates people from supportive social networks while also increasing feelings of anxiety and uncertainty. It not only affects those who have lost a loved one and survivors of tragedy, it spreads ‘dis-ease’ throughout the entire community and beyond. This is collective loss.
What the national news is not covering is the richness of diversity in many Maine communities. Maine is known as a safe and supportive community for children and families resettling from all over the world.
The current tragedy in Lewiston can reactivate personal losses and experiences from the past, as well as heighten levels of fear already present prior to Oct. 26. This is especially true for new community members who live with the uncertainty that comes with seeking asylum, as well as the lived experiences of people of color today and the deep-seeded fear inherited through historical trauma.
Our compassion as humans is needed now more than ever — to understand the complexity of experience for all those affected, and honoring our differences and pathways towards healing. We are at the intersection of great tragedy, as well as great possibility of rebuilding balance and healing in our communities.
Please reach out to Katy Sargent, grants and communications specialist, at [email protected] with any questions you may have.
For children and families confronting loss, change, and grief when someone close to them dies or is seriously ill, the Center for Grieving Children is an oasis of loving support where it is safe to talk about feelings and experiences. At no charge, the Center’s age-specific peer support groups occur weekly in Portland and Sanford. In partnership with Portland Public Schools, the Center also offers peer support for children resettled locally from countries suffering violent conflict or natural disaster. Additional peer support groups are available for young adults, bereaved parents, and widows/widowers/partners. Community outreach throughout the year brings the Center’s training, information, and crisis support to schools, workplaces, and other organizations. Trained volunteers make the Center’s services possible. Founded in 1987, the Center depends on funding from individuals, businesses, foundations, and United Way.
To learn more about the Center for Grieving Children, please follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram, or visit the website at www.cgcmaine.org.