Book project update

For those of you who haven’t heard, Mama Mary’s latest project is a book.  A book? you ask.  Yes, a book.  Not one that I write alone however.  Rather, it’s going to be a compilation of stories written by women who have lost their dads.  I want it to be an inspirational journey for the women that submit writings as well as for the women who will ultimately read it.

Last night, one of my friends who I’ve asked to submit, told me she didn’t know whether or not she would because she didn’t know what to write.  I told her it’s okay to not know…it’s a process, a journey, a journey with her father.  It may bring up some of the raw, painful grief, which is not my intention.  I want it to be a hurts so good kind of journey, (I love you John Cougar).  A time for reflection.  Time with your dad.

This project is still in it’s infancy.  I really don’t even know what I’m looking for.  As of now, I’m asking women to submit whatever they want…a poem – a pre-existing poem or an original one written specifically for this book; a journal entry – one from the time surrounding the death fresh with raw emotion, or one from now, with perspective and distance; a letter – one you write or wrote to your dad or one he wrote to you; an anecdote, song lyrics, a recipe for his favorite dish…anything really.  What feels right for you and the memory of your Dad?  How do you want to pay tribute to him?  What part of your story might help another woman going through a similar situation?

First and foremost…I want the book to relay the message that grief gets better.  It does not ever go away but with time it gets better.

Secondly, I want the book to demonstrate the whole spectrum of grief, the many phases and the vast array of manifestations.  I want women to know they are not crazy and are not alone in their feelings.

Other themes I would love to explore with this book:

1) The unique bond between fathers and daughters.

2) How losing your dad affects your self-esteem, your notion of self-worth and your relationships with the other men.

3) How sisters can have completely different experiences in the loss of their father

4) An education on Hospice.  What is Hospice and how can they help?  Did you know that ANYONE who has suffered ANY KIND OF LOSS can use the services of the Hospice Bereavement Department, whether or not the loved one utilized the services of Hospice before they died?

Since starting this process a couple weeks ago, I’ve contacted 40-50 women who have all lost their fathers and are all interested in contributing.   They have all, for the most part, been suportive and enthusiastic because this is a subject they are all passionate about.  I’m hoping that through this blog I can reach a wider group of women…all types of women, any age and any circumstance of loss – that are interested in sharing this journey with me.  If you are interested, I would LOVE to hear from you – mbgodwin@gmail.com.

Now I really need to sleep!  Peace.