#029 | Shining Light Parents Speak!

Welcome to an in-depth exploration of the moving and compassionate world of "Life with Ghosts," a series dedicated to understanding the ways we connect with our departed loved ones. Hosted by Stephen Berkley, this episode introduces us to a group of authors who are part of the organization Helping Parents Heal. These are not just any authors but parents who have come together to transform grief into growth and healing. Join us as we delve into their stories, the creation of their powerful new book, "Shining Light Parents Speak," and the compelling mission behind their work.

Meet the Authors

Stephen Berkley kicks off this heartfelt conversation by introducing a quartet of exceptional authors:

• Allison from Delaware

• Nancy from Indiana

• Dolores from California

• Anne Marie from Australia

Each of these contributors is a member of Helping Parents Heal, an international support group dedicated to fostering ongoing bonds between parents and children who have passed beyond the physical realm. They collaboratively authored "Shining Light Parents Speak," a book that compiles insights from 130 parents sharing their journeys of healing and continuing connection.

Shining Light, Parents Speak: The Book's Genesis

"Shining Light, Parents Speak" isn't just a book; it's a beacon of hope for countless parents dealing with the loss of a child. These four authors gathered responses from members of Helping Parents Heal, centered around six profound questions. The result is a rich tapestry of experiences and wisdom, showing not only the enduring bonds between parents and children but also suggesting the persistence of consciousness beyond physical life.

"The book demonstrates everlasting consciousness for all beings." — Stephen Berkley

Diving Deeper: Personal Stories

The authors share poignant personal stories that highlight the unique journey each has taken. Nancy from Indiana speaks of her two sons, Will and Joey, who passed at the same age two years apart. The drive to connect with them was a catalyst for her deep dive into understanding and finding them.

Allison's narrative is equally compelling. Her son Davey passed in a car accident, but has played a significant role in the conception of the book. A remarkable moment during an interview led to the project's birth, sparked by what she describes as a direct message from Davey.

Dolores, residing outside Los Angeles, shares about Eric, her youngest son who also died in a car accident. Anne Marie from Australia completes the circle, adding the story of her son Harry, who passed in similar circumstances.

The Book's Unique Approach

Unlike many existing books on grief and loss, this one stems from a collective yet deeply personal insight. It is both a scientific exploration and a handbook for healing, as one author aptly described. The shared Google Docs, cross-continental collaboration, and meticulous organization of the 'gold' — the invaluable wisdom from parents — underscore the book's originality and power.

Understanding Signs and Presence

A significant theme in the conversation is how parents perceive and interpret signs from their children in spirit. Dolores recounts a powerful experience describing a hug that felt like it came directly from Eric, manifesting through a stranger.

The authors outline various ways parents sense their children's presence, encompassing natural signs, electronic disturbances, and dream visits. It becomes clear that the connection remains robust even after physical separation, providing avenues for parents to stay bonded with their children.

"It was not about Davey reaching out to me. It was about me allowing him in." — Allison

The Journey of Healing and Connection

While the pain of physical loss is undeniable, the guiding force for these parents is a sense of purpose and healing through shared experiences. A recurring message is about making the choice to pivot from grief towards becoming a 'shining light' parent, allowing their children to shine through them.

Overcoming Skepticism and Finding Community

Discussing the challenges of dealing with public skepticism, the authors share their unwavering belief in their connections. They emphasize supporting one another within the Helping Parents Heal community, which now boasts nearly 30,000 members globally.

The group’s mission extends beyond comforting the bereaved; it supports spiritual and personal growth by fostering community interactions and shedding a collective light on shared experiences.

The Founding of Helping Parents Heal

The segment welcomes Elizabeth Boyn, co-founder of Helping Parents Heal, who speaks about its origins and mission. The organization started out of necessity when Elizabeth's son, Morgan, passed away. She experienced a profound shared death experience and sought out others with similar encounters. Today, Helping Parents Heal provides a non-conventional approach to grief unavailable in traditional support groups.

Wrapping Up: The Power of Sharing and Helping

The ultimate takeaway from the authors and the organization alike is that helping others is central to healing oneself. This book, and the community behind it, demonstrate that by sharing stories and support, we honor our loved ones and start a journey toward healing and purpose.

"We're just listening to our kids, and love doesn't die." — Elizabeth Boyn

Shining Light, Parents Speak is more than a collection of narratives. It's a testament to resilience and a guiding light for those navigating the complexities of grief and beyond. Whether you're part of Helping Parents Heal or new to exploring these ideas, the truths within these pages hold the potential to transform and uplift lives.

For more information, connect with the Helping Parents Heal community here or explore more about "Shining Light, Parents Speak."