Join us for a quiet, informal hour of listening to poetry by Becky McMeekin in the sanctuary of Bethany Church on Sunday December 17 at 4 PM. In addition to poems of gratitude — some of which were read in November, this reading will also include poetry that addresses various forms of loss. The holiday season is complicated for many, and pairing the poetry of gratitude with the poetry of loss seemed appropriate for this time. Half the poems will be "new" to listeners who might have attended the reading in November.

"I think there is heightened awareness of gratitude after loss … after Covid loss, after the loss of family members or dear friends, and challenges that arise as we age. After my mother died in 2020, I wrote, 'Grief and gratitude are love's conjoined twins. One does not breathe without the other.' It seems like a paradox, but it also feels really true."

Following the reading, there will be a dinner and conversation in the fellowship hall, beginning at 5:00. We will use the inspiration of Becky's words to talk together about grief in our lives, grief that is often heightened at this time of year, and sometimes more difficult to express. All are welcome to attend, especially if you are experiencing feelings of loss more acutely this season.

Bethany Church is located at 30 N Main Street in Randolph.

Event Info

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