by Dr. Deanna Shrodes | Jul 26, 2023 | Caregiving, Family, Grief, Loss, Relationships
It’s been a year since I brought Gus home to live with me and to take care of him until he took his last breath. On Saturday I went into his room and did my usual brief pause, patted the bed, and slowly walked out, shutting the door. Exhaling, I wondered when I...
by Dr. Deanna Shrodes | Jun 22, 2023 | Family, Loss, Ministry, Recovery, Relationships, Stress, Stress Management
“Cruel people offer pity when they no longer feel threatened. However, kind people offer compassion and understanding regardless.” Shannon L. Alder When my birth father, Gus, passed away in December, I thought to myself, “I just need space to grieve.” Everything had...
by Dr. Deanna Shrodes | May 17, 2023 | Adoptees, Family, Grief, Loss, Relationships
“There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are the messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition, and of unspeakable love.” Washington Irving I stare...
by Dr. Deanna Shrodes | Feb 3, 2023 | Adoptees, Adoption, Family, Grief, Loss, Relationships, Uncategorized
When Gus first died, I wanted to stay at home all the time. The reason was simple. I didn’t have the emotional bandwidth to be sweet when others said or did annoying things, so I stayed to myself. There are people I encounter who love me very much but aren’t the...
by Dr. Deanna Shrodes | Jan 12, 2023 | Adoptees, Adoption, Family, Relationships, Reunion, Trauma
What I am about to share has been difficult to come to terms with this past week. In my heart, I already knew it, but having proof hurts just the same. I have said several times that even though Gus (my bio father) is dead, our story isn’t over. It won’t be until...
by Dr. Deanna Shrodes | Nov 28, 2022 | Family
When I was younger, I fantasized about having the perfect family. Then I grew up and knocked myself out trying to have one. I have been married for thirty-five years. I believe marriage is about two people out-serving and out-forgiving each other. But for many years...
