How do you see yourself now as a single person? How can you deal with unsolicited, but well intentioned, advice? What are the obstacles to moving on in your life?
If these are relevant questions to you as a widow or widower, Solo Living, a new support group, might provide the answers.
The six churches of Portola Valley and Woodside are forming Solo Living to provide support for widows and widowers, to explore what it means to live as a single person again, and to learn how to move on after the death of a spouse, says Mary Fleishman, pastor associate at Christ Church.
Topics that would be addressed include the emotions and experiences of grief, social transitions and adjustments, and practical and financial problems that arise from living alone.
The participating churches are Christ Church, Ladera Community Church, Our Lady of the Wayside, Valley Presbyterian, Woodside Priory, and Woodside Village Church.
The idea for Solo Living came up in the series of monthly meetings the six churches have held, says Ms. Fleishman. Although of different denominations, the churches have much in common because of their remote location and the similar lifestyles of their members, she says. Probably their best known ecumenical effort is the Thanksgiving service held each November.
The first information session on Solo Living was held Oct. 9 at Christ Church, with Barbara Varenhorst from Valley Presbyterian Church as facilitator, assisted by Barbara Tagg from Woodside Village Church. Solo Living organizers intend to form support groups of eight to 10 members each. Small group size makes it easier to speak out, says Ms. Fleishman.
Those interested in learning more about Living Solo are invited to contact any of the sponsoring churches: Christ Church, 851-0224; Ladera Community Church, 854-5481; Our Lady of the Wayside, 851-5085; Valley Presbyterian, 851-8282; Woodside Priory, 851-6161; and Woodside Village Church, 851-1587.
