Rose M. Smith

Unearthing Ida is a story of a complicated life--and a complicated family--told in poems so visceral and tender, they sting. Rose M. Smith has one of finest ears in poetry, and in this new book, different speakers reveal pieces of Ida's story, with different perspectives, voices, rhythms, and dictions. A poem written from the perspective of Ida's brother Albie describes her: "Ida was an A. Like A sharp. Like a slant chord thrown in at the right place, to change possibilities." Unearthing Ida is not only a beautiful tribute but a possibility-changing achievement." --Maggie Smith, author of Good Bones

How do you cope with these painful emotions when the sights, sounds, and smells of the holiday season are unavoidable? How do you garner happiness for others as you watch celebrations of family togetherness while your heart is breaking? Some have even asked, "How do I make the holiday season disappear?" You are not alone on this journey. While the root causes of holiday grief are many, one will find inspiration from the personal stories shared. The authors share their unmasked pain from the deepest parts of their hearts and souls. They share experiences of transcending losses related to death, relationships, health, career, divorce, faith, miscarriage, self-identify, and much more.Shawn Perry, Founder, Executive Producer, and Radio Host of The Senior Zone, increases visibility, raises awareness, and elevates the concerns of our older adult population. He shares an encouraging holiday message to our seniors, the backbone of our existence, who might feel alone and withdrawn during the holiday season.Robert Wright, Jr., Ph.D., COFT, the Stress Relief Doctor, is an Executive Stress Management Wellness Coach. Dr. Bob enlightens on existential grief, the causes, how it can affect every part of one's life, and provides valuable information on steps to identify and resolve this devastating and sometimes unrecognizable form of grief.