New Beginnings ~ Ready or Not

The sea of clouds and billowing white foam seemed to stretch forever, obscuring the land below.

In the distant horizon, vivid pink and orange streaks illuminated the sky, gradually darkening, turning deep gold. There was comfort in the exquisite beauty and stillness of the flight. The calm serenity was broken by the waves of emotion that came over me. I was returning to my childhood home to help my father die.

After twenty years of health problems and a valiant two year battle with lung cancer, my father was ready to give up the fight. Extraordinary individuals from Hospice came into our lives with hearts of gold, filled with compassion. Two weeks after I arrived, Dad peacefully took his last breath, at home, surrounded by love. What a blessing to have been able to share in his passing.

Dad’s passing was a year ago, but the transitions continue. My dad’s final journey was a new beginning for each of the loved ones he left behind. Nothing remains as it was. Our relationships with loved ones, friends, and even money changes. Each life passage creates a shift. New lives. New identities. My mother is naturally the most affected.

Suddenly Single

The identity loss and overwhelm that accompanies the transition from “we” to “me” is profound. I vividly remember experiencing those feelings when my long-term marriage ended. Becoming “suddenly single” changes everything.

Serving as an Advocate for the Suddenly Single is one of several important reasons behind the creation of the The Swan Network community of women. We help mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends discover the power of possibilities and experience the inner strength of security, wisdom, and alignment to navigate life’s glorious next chapter. My vision is to help women who are experiencing new beginnings transform the “fear of what ifs” into “I can do this!”

Sudden Money

All transitions, both good and bad, impact money. Decisions must be made in the midst of turmoil and lifestyle change whether it be from the loss of a loved one, new marriage, career change, inheritance, insurance settlements, or lottery winnings.

Over the next few weeks, we’ll review some important tips to simplify your financial life so when change happens … and it will … you and your loved ones are prepared.

The Swan Journal provides an unbiased, safe haven to get answers about money … to questions you didn’t even know to ask! Be sure to sign up to automatically receive these free, but priceless, tips from your Swan Money Mentor right here in the Journal! Please use the Share This link to pass this resource to every woman you know.

We invite you to share your story. Without fear of intimidation or being taken advantage of, post your concerns. Let us know: How can we help you? What are you seeking?

We’ll be sharing tips about money, technology, and spiritual strength. Be sure to sign up for the Journal updates.