Magic Lamp

Magic Lamp

by | Jan 26, 2023 | Belinda's Thoughts, Friday's Inspiration, Love, Relaxation, Self-Care, Wellbeing

A few years ago I purchased a magic lamp for our Christmas table.

I loved it so much that I began bringing it out at the beginning of the month and illuminating the kitchen each night as we gathered for a meal.

It also proves to be handy for power outages, bringing a sense of wonder to what otherwise could be a cold evening.

My colleague Deb Eaton was so moved by it’s magical glow, swirling snow and vibrant red cardinals that she too had to have one. She shares that on cold days it makes her feel warm inside, bringing back memories of yesteryear. Deb bought a second one for her mother, as I did last year for my father.

I should really think about buying shares in the company given that such a simple item can bring such immense joy.

It’s a true gift to find joy in small packages and unexpected places. Do you have any items that do the same for you?

Warm thoughts,

Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong

Magic Lamp

Magic Lamp

by | Jan 26, 2023 | Belinda's Thoughts, Friday's Inspiration, Gratitude, joy, Love

It’s January, a perfect time for new beginnings.

In a world brimming with constant activity and incessant stimuli, our living spaces often mirror the chaos we might experience in daily life. Clutter accumulates, objects pile up, and our surroundings can become overwhelming.

The act of purging goes beyond mere decluttering; it’s a transformative process that transcends the physical realm. It involves sifting through belongings, evaluating their significance, and intentionally parting ways with items that no longer serve a purpose or bring genuine joy.

Like the Tasmanian Devil, I am whirling around our home donating or chucking out items that no longer serve us. My goal is to rid our home of one bag per day. Joe is not quite sure what is going on. To be fair, I may not have given him the heads up, but by osmosis he can’t help but jump on the decluttering train.

Instead of winter darkness, I’m fuelled by internal light. One small piece at a time, one day at a time, I vow to emerge from my clutter, making room for what matters most.

Warm thoughts,

Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong

Magic Lamp

Magic Lamp

by | Jan 26, 2023 | Belinda's Thoughts, Friday's Inspiration, Gratitude, joy, Love

A few years ago I purchased a magic lamp for our Christmas table.

I loved it so much that I began bringing it out at the beginning of the month and illuminating the kitchen each night as we gathered for a meal.

It also proves to be handy for power outages, bringing a sense of wonder to what otherwise could be a cold evening.

My colleague Deb Eaton was so moved by it’s magical glow, swirling snow and vibrant red cardinals that she too had to have one. She shares that on cold days it makes her feel warm inside, bringing back memories of yesteryear. Deb bought a second one for her mother, as I did last year for my father.

I should really think about buying shares in the company given that such a simple item can bring such immense joy.

It’s a true gift to find joy in small packages and unexpected places. Do you have any items that do the same for you?

Warm thoughts,

Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong

Leading with Gratitude: Meet my friend Kenneth Kamyuka

Leading with Gratitude: Meet my friend Kenneth Kamyuka

by | Jan 20, 2023 | Belinda's Thoughts, Community, Recovery, Resources, Support

Leading with Gratitude: Meet my friend Kenneth Kamyuka

During a recent trip to Toronto, I took an Uber in order to transport a load of groceries to my father’s home. My good-natured Uber driver, Kenneth, struck up a conversation as we drove. I asked him if he enjoyed being an Uber driver and responded happily:

“I love it. As a newcomer to this country, I find Canada full of opportunity for those willing to work hard.”

Kenneth went on to explain that he had immigrated from Uganda. He shared a story of his first arrival in Canada thirteen years earlier:

“You see, I was assigned a case manager to help me settle. The first time we met, she handed me a cheque for $730. I couldn’t believe it. That represented 3.2 million shillings. I asked her ‘when do I have to pay it back?’ and she said, ‘you don’t…we will give you a check like this each month until you find work’.”

Kenneth explained that he could not believe he received such a warm welcome, counting himself lucky to come to such a caring place. Hailed as one of Uganda’s top cricketeers, Kenneth later came to play on Canada’s national cricket team.

Kenneth was truly an unexpected spark of joy in the middle of a busy day. The conversation reminded me of the importance of moving slowly, taking the time to notice people, places and all things good around me. I was pleased to meet Kenneth, and proud of the manner in which Canada welcomed him. For all of those of you who have worked so hard to help maintain our freedoms, rights and privileges, my encounter with Kenneth served as a reminder of the power of gratitude in transforming lives.

Warm thoughts,

Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong

A community of support

A community of support

by | Jan 13, 2023 | Belinda's Thoughts, Community, PTSD, Recovery, Support

A community of support

This week Jen Whalen and I had the pleasure of visiting the Hantsport Fire Department to offer training on Strategies for Staying Healthy and Strong in First Responder Roles. What a great turnout and discussion! The new fire station was gorgeous and the reception warm and welcoming. We’re excited to be working in partnership with our local first responders, having the opportunity to talk strategy regarding injury prevention and recovery. Special thanks to Training Captain Jennifer Daniels for inviting us.

Landing Strong is a hub of positive energy this month. This week we have 48 people enrolled in our intensive programs with our online Emotions Program drawing participants from three different Atlantic Provinces.

Date Night is this Thursday 6-9 pm: For those who are interested it isn’t too late to enroll. Come have an evening of fun, creativity and connection with your loved one – Dinner is on us!

Maintaining Health is next Thursday. Please call ahead to reserve your spot.

I look forward to our Board of Directors Annual Retreat this Saturday. We have a fantastic group of dedicated volunteers who, led by Board Chair Shawn Hiscott and Facilitators Julian Young and Tara Burley, will be working on enriching the long-term vision and strategic plan for our organization. Watch our website soon for a new section introducing all of our Directors.

No moss growing on these rolling stones!

Warm thoughts,

Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong

A call from the universe

A call from the universe

by | Jan 6, 2023 | Belinda's Thoughts, Courage, PTSD, Recovery, Support

A call from the universe

Hello, I am suffering from severe ptsd, anxiety and depression and am feeling stuck. I need to do something but don’t know what. Are you able to help?

There it is. A call from the universe. Someone who, after years of contemplation, manages to muster the courage to reach out. These are the spectacular moments of bravery that inspire me.

I imagine a solitary soul, standing on a cliff shouting to the universe:

Hello, is anybody out there? Do you hear me? Do you see I am suffering and that I’m alone?

We’re here. I call back. We can’t see you but we hear you. Where are you? Come join us. You’d be welcome and there’s room.

January may be a month of cold, but it warms my heart to meet new members and welcome them to our community.

New programs are starting next week. Virtual and in person. It’s not to late it you’re interested. Just drop us a line or give us a call. It just takes a few moments of courage.

Warm thoughts,

Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong