Happy Birthday Betty
Today is our mother Betty’s birthday. It changed from a celebration to become the anniversary of her absence after she died six years ago. But gradually this feeling is being replaced with a sense of gratitude. Living overseas has shifted my experience of death and mourning for friends and loved ones. In a weird dichotomy, […]
Strange Estrangement
Estrangement is defined as “a breakdown in a relationship, such as a relationship with a spouse or family member, where there is no longer any communication, or communication has become hostile, and the individuals lead separate lives.” And these breakdowns in family relationships are more common than you might think.“One US study of more than […]
Tyranny of Distance
Numerous books for expats offer practical ideas to help bridge the distance from family and loved ones when people live in other countries. But let’s face it, the hardship of overcoming great distances is real and to remain in close contact or at least feel close to family and loved ones is a challenge. One […]