Grief and Healing Through the Bench
I sat on the Bench shortly after my mother’s passing. I had been planning for the inevitable like most people through paying for her funeral insurance, but I missed a few payments, and the policy lapsed, so when my mother passed on, the insurance did not cover anything. At that time, my husband was unemployed, making an already difficult situation more distressing. We even struggled to get bus fare to travel to Lupane for the funeral.
I arrived in Lupane with nothing – an anomaly in my culture, my family simply could not understand my predicament. My mother still had to be buried so our relatives paid for the funeral, but this was also accompanied by very unkind and hurtful words. I felt like I had failed my mother because I couldn't even help her in the end. This really bothered me, and I started thinking a lot.
When I returned home, I was deeply troubled. A neighbor told me about a Friendship Bench grandfather (Khulu/ Sekuru) and recommended that I speak to him. I had no money and was hesitant to go, but my neighbor informed me that it was free and insisted that I give it a chance.
When I started experiencing suicidal thoughts, I reached out to the grandfather and we started talking, I opened up about my thoughts and problems and through many sessions he helped me.
I found myself laughing again, I even decided to start a garden to keep me busy. Through sitting on the Bench and talking with the grandfather I found healing. The people I thought would comfort and support me hurt me, but I found a safe space through the Bench.
I think every newly employed person should learn about the insurance facilities provided through their workplace. Knowing the basic rules, eligibility requirements, and registration procedures can prevent confusion esic portal later. Employees should also keep their personal information updated and maintain important documents. Awareness is the first step towards making proper use of available social security benefits.
Losing a loved one is already incredibly painful, and having to deal with financial struggles and hurtful words makes it even harder. I'm glad she found a safe space through the Friendship Bench and someone who helped her regain hope and find joy in everyday life again. It also shows how important accessible mental health support and clicker games community connections are, especially for people who feel they have nowhere else to turn.
I enjoy cooking games because they combine food preparation with quick decisions and simple restaurant management.
Save or share MapQuest directions before starting, so passengers can follow the plan and help spot a missed turn without distracting the person who is driving during a long journey.
Thank you for sharing such a heartfelt piece! I’ve found solace just sitting on my own bench in the park, reflecting and healing. It reminds me of how vital those quiet moments are—much like enjoying a comforting bowl of foodle after a long day. Grieving can feel isolating, but connecting with simple joys really helps bridge that gap.