Saturday Morning Message: How TAPS Has Been Of Support During the Pandemic
Author: TAPS
Good Morning,
It's hard to believe that it's already the end of March and that we just passed the one year anniversary of the start of the national COVID-19 quarantine. Time just seems to be flying by.
Each step of the way our TAPS Family has been there to support us and keep us connected virtually and then, very recently, in person with regional seminars, retreats and TAPS Togethers. Our photo this week is from our recent Southern Regional Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp, where we safely gathered together in Dallas, Texas. Our survivors' smiles and joy at this event beamed through their masks.
This week, we asked readers to tell us how TAPS has been of support to them during the pandemic. We hope you enjoy reading what they have shared.
Thank you for being a part of our Saturday Morning Message community.
Have a great week!
Responses from Survivors to last week's question
How has TAPS been of support to you during the pandemic?
From Sandra, mother of Josh: During the last year, I have relied heavily on my weekly TAPS video meetings and General Support Text Chats to get the help that I need to move through the week. I am presently participating in the Women's Empowerment programs and enjoying the themes each week. These meetings embody a sisterhood of women who have become very close and supportive. I am also participating in the Parent, Survivors of Illness Loss, and the Writers' Video Chats.
I have formed lasting friendships with my TAPS buddies from the text chats and video chats and have met many of them in person at TAPS Seminars. It is hard to walk this journey on your own. There are so many other options available through TAPS, if you are looking for support and guidance during these trying times.
▶▶ We Welcome Your Comments
If you would like to send a note commenting on one or all of the responses in this week’s Saturday Morning Message, send it to online@taps.org and your thoughts will be passed along to each contributor. You never know how your words may touch the heart of another.
Question for Next Week’s Saturday Morning Message
Is there a female from TAPS or elsewhere in your life that has provided support or been an inspiration to you along your grief journey?
March is Women's History Month and we want to recognize those women who have had a profound impact on our lives. We look forward to reading your responses.
▶▶ In order to have your reply considered for next week's edition of the Saturday Morning Message, please send your response by Tuesday morning to online@taps.org.
▶▶ The Saturday Morning Message was created so survivors can share questions and read how others respond. Questions for future messages are always welcome and can be sent to online@taps.org.
Song for the Week
This week’s song, 'Village' by Cam was sent by Lauren, sister of Andrew, who wrote, "I wanted to share the song "Village" by country artist Cam. The song is sung from the perspective of a brother who has passed away, telling his younger sister that he is still there. The words of the chorus bring such comfort:
'Your whole heart’s a village.
Everyone you love has built it.
And I’ve been working there myself.
And that’s where I’ll be with a front-row seat,
To watch you live your life well.'"
▶▶ Send Your Favorite Song or Recipe
Each week, we publish recipes or songs that have special meaning for our subscribers. If you have a favorite recipe or song for this section, please send it to online@taps.org and include a note about why it is meaningful to you.
Related Stories
Article: Restoring Balance Amid Grief and the Pandemic
Learn how Soft Belly Breathing and Shaking and Dancing can help us feel easier in ourselves and make us feel more comfortable connecting with others.
Video: Mourning Your Loss When the Whole World is Grieving
This video recording discusses how to ensure a focus on self-care and wellness while honoring one's grief.
Other Items and Events of Interest
Join us on Memorial Day Weekend, May 28 to 30, for our 27th Annual National Military Survivor Seminar! We will be live streaming all of our general sessions with guest speakers.
Important Note: In-person registration is still open, but we are in a waitlist situation due to COVID occupancy restrictions in the State of Virginia.
If you have any questions, email seminarregistrations@taps.org or call our Helpline at 202.588.TAPS (8277).
▶▶ Connect With Your TAPS Family
You can discover all the opportunities to connect with your TAPS Family on our website at the TAPS Event Calendar.
About the Saturday Morning Message
The Saturday Morning Message (SMM) is a weekly communication contributed by survivors. The primary focus of the SMM is to foster peer-based connections for support and encouragement. It is the goal of this communication to foster a safe, supportive place where we can openly share in a nonjudgmental and caring manner. Read and contribute as you are comfortable. Content submitted for the SMM is edited for space considerations and may be used in other TAPS publications. The loving family at TAPS is available to you 24 hours a day. Please call 202-588-TAPS (8277).