Dr. Julie Lyle

During the last nearly two years, grief and limitations have shadowed much of the joy in our lives and brought unwanted changes. But guess what? Rituals can be your timeless superpower, impervious to Covid. The ultimate antibody to ward off loss are the traditions stored within our hearts and memories. Open them up, dust them off and embrace their COMFORT and JOY during this cherished season! Read more about the value of ritual in my latest blog article, "Rituals of Reassurance" — https://drjuls.com/2021/12/19/rituals-of-reassurance/

—Dr. Julie Lyle ❤️
*
*

Originating as an official cease fire truce, Armistice Day signified the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918 for the warring parties in World War I to pause in their attacks on others. Armistice Day is what we now recognize as Veteran’s Day. President Kennedy’s quote is an invitation today. We can thank those who sacrificed their precious lives in the name of country. Yet even more importantly than verbal appreciation, we each can strive to live in generous service to others through our honorable deeds and dedicated passions.

—Dr. Julie Lyle

I have a dear friend in Louisiana who is a fan of the New Orleans Saints football team, but I don’t think today is about celebrating them. 🙂 Saint Anthony of Padua is the patron saint of lost and stolen things. Born in 1195 in Lisbon, Portugal, his short life of 36 years was one of service. During his final 10 years he resided in Padua, Italy and shared a message of discovering peace through service and giving. As much as some folks may evoke a prayer for Saint Anthony to find their car keys, runaway pooch or misplaced family heirloom necklace, I reflected on what is lost or stolen emotionally.

We can feel very lost when facing the end of a relationship due to death, divorce and family conflicts. Happiness, resolve and peace may feel stolen from us. Other losses, such as being released from a job, departures of friendships, changes or struggles with our health can also bring about a loss of security, comfort and hope. Sometimes the challenge does require tactical solutions; find a new job, initiate medical treatment. Yet often we cannot find or replace what is lost, instead we need to find our way. As frightening as it might be, sitting in the discomfort of being “lost” allows us to expand our range of emotions, brave uncharted attitudes and discover aspects of our self that were waiting to be found all along.

—Dr. Julie Lyle 💕