The "C" word

Community

Yes, community. Not the revered book by Inga Muscio. When I think of myself in terms of labels, the following (in no particular order) come up. Mother, grandmother, sister, writer, reader, learner, friend, teacher, wife No. Widow.

I recently became part of a new (for me) community: The Modern Widows Club. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I got the invitation to their “Widows’ Health & Wellbeing Day” in Florida, but I decided to explore this role I have been living (but not talking about) for twelve years. Was it some cult? Some weird pyramid scheme? Thankfully, no. They are doing what we need more of: supporting widows. There are a ton of resources that are both helpful and free. It’s an organization run by widows for widows. There are no lame platitudes like “It all happens for a reason,” or “Time will heal everything.” They give honest, heartfelt advice. They advocate for widows.

Why This Matters

When we speak up for widow rights—whether it's fair Social Security policies, workplace bereavement leave, or simply being seen—we're doing sacred work. We're following a call that's thousands of years old: defend the widow.

“Every time we share our stories, we break the silence that keeps widowhood invisible. Every time we advocate for better support systems, we honor not just ourselves but the countless widows who come after us.” - Carolyn Moor

The Ripple Effect

Supporting widows strengthens entire communities. When we thrive, our children see resilience modeled. When we use our voices, we create space for others to speak their truth. When we refuse to be forgotten, we ensure no widow walks this path alone.

The verse doesn't say "pity the widow" or "feel sorry for the widow." It says defend and plead the case. That's action. That's advocacy. That's us refusing to be victims and choosing to be voices instead.

Our pain has purpose. Our experience has power. Our advocacy matters.

—from their Substack, Widow Life

Every writer needs a critique group (at least one). I have several. For my creative nonfiction, I have to thank Carol Marsh for inviting me to the Poets & Writers Group, Essayists Essaying. I have found such a rich community with these writers.

I would not be a writer if it weren’t for my sisters at The International Women’s Writing Guild.

The International Women’s Writing Guild “Writing and Wellness Retreat”

August 11–15, 2025
Two Tracks. One Powerful Community.

Join us this summer for an inspiring week of writing, connection, and renewal. Whether you’re gathering with us in Kingston, NY, or joining virtually from anywhere in the world, the IWWG Writing & Wellness Retreat offers something for every writer.

Ready to write, reflect, and recharge?
Choose your path—and register early to secure your spot.

UPCOMING

• Monday, August 11-Friday, 15 The International Women’s Writing Guild “Writing and Wellness Retreat” PLEASE JOIN US in person or online!

• Sunday, September 14, 1:00 - 5:00 Poetry reading for Calling All Poets at the Widow Jane Mine.

MY KITCHEN TABLE MFA CONTINUES…

The Poet's Powers: Four Routes toward Weirder Work with Joshua Davis through The Poetry Barn.

Reading and re-reading the phenomenal memoir in verse Authentic Embellishments by Joshua Davis, published by AIM Higher.

Editing the next draft of the memoir.

Thanks for reading……..lisa

https://www.lisachristinastjohn.com/