I’m so lonely!
I practically choked on those words, and when I dared to share how I felt with my friend during our phone conversation one cold, gray Connecticut winter day back in 1998, they were accompanied by some very bitter tears.
It had been five years since my ex-husband had walked out and filed for divorce at that point, and in that time I had put a lot of hard work into rebuilding my life. I had friends, a good job, and I had been on some dates after receiving my decree of nullity. Most of the ducks I needed to get in a row were lined up. But, every night I came home to a cold, empty apartment which was so very depressing.
Now, I know not everyone who goes through a divorce struggles with loneliness. But, the majority of people who go through a divorce struggle with something…what are some of your struggles?
Financial?
Court battles dragging on endlessly?
Angry children?
Feeling sad and depressed?
Confused about the annulment process and feeling stuck?
Whatever your particular struggle is, I’ve got something that can help you resolve those issues and move forward.
Especially For You
In an effort to bring hope and healing to people who are divorced and rebuilding their lives, I am excited to let you know about the upcoming Journey of Hope Conference for divorce recovery. The Journey of Hope Conferences are specifically designed to offer much needed support to the divorced community through offering compassionate and inspiring speakers, uplifting music, good food, and fellowship with other Catholics who understand the divorce experience first-hand. The first two conferences took place in Atlanta, GA in 2010 and 2011 and were attended by people from across the country, as well as Canada and Mexico.
I am excited about the lineup of amazing speakers so far, like Rose Sweet, whom many of you know from her excellent books on divorce recovery; Father Thomas Loya, radio host and Theology of the Body expert; Jacqui Rapp, JD, JCL, MCL, author and canon law expert; Jamie Minster, CDFA, a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst; Chris Easterly, award-winning screenwriter and author of Falling Forward: A Man’s Memoir On Divorce; and of course, your’s truly. And stay tuned, because I will be announcing 3 surprise guest speakers soon!
My goal is to offer you practical tools for healing and growing in faith, a chance to encounter God’s healing grace and presence through the sacraments, and come away inspired and refreshed with tools you can put to use immediately. The great mix of presentations that address the challenges divorced people face, times for prayer and reflection, and the opportunity to make new friends all combine to make a transformational experience.
Why Charleston?
Charleston, South Carolina, also known as The Holy City is known for its rich history, well-preserved architecture, a celebrated restaurant community and famous for its friendly Southern hospitality. Charleston has been recognized as the No. 1 Small U.S. City for the fifth consecutive year by Condé Nast Traveler 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards, and by Travel and Leisure Magazine. It is the perfect place to find hope, refreshment, and a new chapter in life.
So, if you are looking for ways to improve your life after divorce, visit the conference website and get registered. An amazing experience awaits you!