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FOUR SEASONS BREEZE | NOVEMBER 2015 37 I have been facilitating the Bereavement Group at Four Seasons for two and one half years, and I continue to be touched and amazed by what happens when a group of diverse people gather, listen to each other, share with each other and work toward a common goal, in this case healing. Even though each one is dealing with his or her own grief, the generosity of spirit everyone shows toward the others is remarkable. Some who have already been through the 12 week "curriculum" come back, often bowed by the sadness of a new loss, or simply wanting to touch base again. Others don't leave after 12 weeks and remain for as long as they want or need to. And occasionally I'll ask someone to return for a while in order to support someone else who may be uncomfortable or struggling. Never has anyone refused to return. I find that wonderful. As the holiday season approaches, the Bereavement Group can feel safe and heartening. It can be a place to cry, to explore feelings, to talk about anger or confusion or loneliness, to comfort and be comforted. And we can talk about holiday rituals and give each other permission to change them, start new ones, or even avoid them this year. We learn that it is ok to put ourselves first for as long as we need to. It is okay not to talk if we don't feel like it, or to leave the group if we feel our work there is completed. Holidays can be difficult at the best of times. They can feel daunting and overwhelming while one is grieving. If what we have to offer sounds inviting, come join us. We will welcome you. All conversation is confidential, contained within the group. Or you can call me first at (951) 922-0934 or email to lauriemlarson425@gmail.com We meet on Mondays from 1 to 3 pm in the Crafts Room at the Lodge. ~ Laurie Larson Bereavement Group Our Bible Studies in the Gospel of Matthew completed on Oct. 20, and on Oct. 27 Jim Seim began a six week series on "Scriptural Guides to a Happy Retirement." PLEASE NOTE: We have returned to Section One of the Lodge Ballroom, and we meet from 7 to 8 pm. Everyone is welcome! Please contact Doc or Letha Sellars at (951) 797-3302 or docletha72@gmail.com with any questions or comments. Blessings! ~ Doc Sellars Life Guide Bible Study It's astounding to see how quickly this year has passed! We have covered more than half of our "A Godly Woman Is" study, discussing that a Godly woman is: loving, beautiful, courageous, compassionate, decisive, happy, dependable, organized, loyal, confident, wise, content, generous and respectful. November and December's studies will concentrate on "A Godly Woman Is:" prayerful, teachable, obedient, Bible-loving, and God-loving. We always have amazing discussions and wise and interesting comments. Our goal is that the women in the group leave with a lighter step, feeling encouraged and confident in the knowledge that they are loved by the group as well as our God. In December we are looking forward to our Christmas potluck and social, which in the past has not only exhibited the culinary talents of the members, but the wisdom and love that they share with each other. The ladies will once again have an opportunity to participate in our "Secret Sister" project, which proved to be lots of fun last year. Each woman draws a name of someone else in the group and becomes her "Secret Sister" for a few weeks, taking her little gifts, goodies or sending cards or notes. The secrets will all be revealed at the Christmas potluck and social. If you are interested in joining an amazing group of women with kind and God-loving hearts, you are welcome to join us any Friday from 10:30 to 11:30 am in the first section of the Ballroom. It's a non-denominational study, using any Bible translation, and at any level of Bible knowledge. Hope to see you soon! ~ Eileen Gilbert-Antoine "Believe…" Women's Bible Study