Connections

Happy New Year!  And what an interesting year it has been.  With unemployment at an all-time high, the crash of the housing market, the auto industry and the financial markets, you are probably wondering what there is to be happy about, right?  Well, I say plenty!  With our major institutions in the midst of much needed change, perhaps we are on the verge of a beautiful shift in consciousness as well.  This “crisis” could also be seen as an opportunity that could afford us a chance to connect with each other in ways we could have never dreamed of.  As we have seen so many times throughout history, the human spirit rises when faced with challenges.  Could we be ready for a new level of intimacy with one another?  Respect, cooperation, kindness, acceptance on a daily basis?  I hope so, these are words that we can all surely live by.

I know we all remember the Great Blackout of 2003, where power outages across the Northeast and Midwest left millions of people without power.  I have very fond memories of those few days when neighbors gathered together to share food, supplies and friendship with each other.  My neighborhood had a lovely campground feel and I got to know the families on my street in a deeper way.  The connection I felt with my community outshined any inconveniences I experienced during the power outage.  I was actually disappointed when the electricity came back on and I don’t think I was alone in that sentiment.  As human beings, we need one another for survival for sure but we also crave that heart-felt connection of the soul as well.

In honor of connections, we are pleased to feature Beth Morrison, CEO of HAVEN on our cover this month.  HAVEN is Oakland County’s center for the treatment and prevention of domestic violence and sexual assault.  Beth has spent her career helping people reconnect to a new way of life through safety, community and their own empowerment.  

As 2009 unfolds before you, we at the Healing Garden Journal wish you many new connections in this year to come.  Onward everyone - it’s an exciting time to be alive!

Linda Hasley
Managing Editor