A Sign of Awakenings

This man beside us also has a hard fight with an unfavouring world, with strong temptations, with doubts and fears, with wounds of the past which have skinned over, but which smart when they are touched. It is a fact, however surprising. And when this occurs to us we are moved to deal kindly with him, to bid him be of good cheer, to let him understand that we are also fighting a battle; we are bound not to irritate him, nor press hardly upon him nor help his lower self. ~ John Watson

Last year, I took part in an extraordinary event that embodied benevolence and peace through the purpose of uniting mankind. It was Kindness is Key’s attempt to break the Guinness World Records by creating the largest Human Peace Sign. This also happened to be taking place on the nine month mark of Shayla’s passing. 

While in attendance, I listened to the performers on stage share their gifts through music. An Irish woman, Denise Hagan, caught my attention immediately with her angel voice which resonated through me.  She is an inspirational performer who has travelled worldwide and blessed countless others with her gift.

The Secret of the Universe by Denise Hagan http://youtu.be/YYClbda1Sh4

I wanted to bring home with me, the tapestry of her knowledge and share with others her lyrics that bring joy to the soul. The CD I purchased, For those who hear, was infused with celebration. One particular song featured: Lady Lavender was written for her niece. At the time, I had no idea how impacted my life would be by this song of commemoration.

On December 12, 2012- one year after my beloved daughter- Shayla Driver passed away, I stood amongst others at a Candle Light Vigil. This gathering was to reflect on a young woman, whose many contributions to life; including bringing change to McKinley Landing road, were recognized. I chose four songs which I believed echoed the care-free spirit of my precious child. Amongst the sounds of Lifehouse, The Beatles, and Sugarland, I played the divine song by Denise Hagan. As the tears were shared in the droplets of our grief, Lady Lavender could be heard-carrying across Okanagan Lake- where Shayla had spent endless summer days, swimming. 

Recently, I had the wonderful opportunity to hear Denise Hagan perform live, once again. Her gifts come in a multitude of songwriting, storytelling, and exploring the magic of creative hearts. Those in attendance were treated to an evening of enchantment, leaving us mesmerized through all Denise offered us and wanting more.

  

Prior to meeting Miss Hagan, I spoke with her wonderful assistant, Rebecca. I shared about my late daughter and how the music had been a way of grounding me with my grieving to the importance of honouring Shayla’s life in a creative, positive manner. I gave Rebecca the link to the cause I started and was happy to have spoken with her.

I was fortunate to finally meet the inspiration performer and share with her about Shayla, The Heart Pebble Movement, and how her song, Lady Lavender touched the hearts of those who attended the vigil, in my daughter’s memory. Denise held onto my hands and warmly received the message I wanted to pass along. Rebecca took several pictures of us and I gave Denise the link to the movement. 

One of the places Shayla had always spoke of travelling to; was Ireland, and it is my hope that somehow a pebble will find its way on a journey to a unique place.

At the evening of song and storytelling, I met with the two ladies who are Cofounders of Kindness is Key. Both Patricia Connor and Joyce Ross expressed their desire to share and have me come participate in the next Peace sign event on Saturday, September 21, 2013. 

Additionally, they will be part of a HEART AWAKENING Self-Worthshop, being held on Saturday, November 23, 2013. Denise Hagan will also be sharing about Awakening your Creative Heart. Further information can be found by visiting the following websites:  

Denise Hagan’s website: http://www.denisehagan.com/

Kindness is Key: WWW.KINDNESSISKEY.COM

 

An array of her music can be purchased, which promotes well-being and our connection with the divine source of life.

Prior to attending the concert, I had received awful news on two friends who were enduring trauma- each in their own separate way. After listening to Denise’s performance, I was granted assurance in knowing, I was offering much of the same compassion to the world that had been given to me throughout my greatest loss.

Since the loss of my daughter, every day, brings an assortment of emotions. I often will recall times when I felt there was no strength to carry me, yet I cannot let fear of the unknown hold me back. While I am a bereaved parent, I am still a mother whose meaning of joyfulness has been restructured. I now see gratitude in a new light, knowing that my uncertainty makes me want to reconnect with life.

Whether it is found in the smoothness of a pebble, in the lyrics of a song, or holding hands in a peace sign; my grieving journey reminds me what it is to be able to feel, hear and touch as I connect with the roots of my existence.

By T.L. Alton