Emily Rapp Black: Navigating Grief and Finding Sanctuary
My god, it was such an awful person to interact with in grocery stores. You know it's a part of who I am and it's also a part of how I learn discipline, and writing does take a lot of discipline.
What happens when a mother faces the unimaginable loss of her child? In this episode of 'Affliction & Resilience', host Judy L. Mandel sits down with Emily Rapp Black to discuss her heartfelt memoir, 'Sanctuary'. Emily, a celebrated author and academic, opens up about the profound grief she experienced after losing her son Ronan to Tay-Sachs disease just before his third birthday.
She candidly shares how this devastating loss shaped her writing and her life, leading to the creation of her poignant memoir. Emily also reflects on the birth of her healthy daughter and how this new chapter influenced her journey through grief. The conversation touches on the themes of resilience and the complexities of labeling someone as 'resilient'.
Emily and Judy explore the idea of 'moving through' grief rather than simply overcoming it, emphasizing the importance of finding peace and sanctuary in the process. They also discuss an interactive installation inspired by 'Sanctuary', which offers a unique way for people to connect and contribute their own stories of loss and healing. If you're seeking an honest and touching exploration of grief, resilience, and the power of memory, this episode is a must-listen.