Kelly Corrigan Wonders Thanks For Being Here - Emma's Essay "Go to the Party, Even When Life Doesn't Feel Like One"
Nov 23, 2025
A mother's journey into communal joy while navigating personal grief unfolds beautifully. Attending a bat mitzvah becomes a transformative experience, showcasing how moments of celebration can lift sorrow. Amid her worries for her daughter, she discovers the healing power of connection and shared joy. The essay emphasizes the importance of showing up for others, reminding us that vulnerability and inclusion can provide respite from our struggles. Ultimately, it's a heartfelt call to embrace community during challenging times.
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Traveling Away From Caregiving
- Emma Nadler traveled 1,200 miles to attend her friend Kate's daughter's bat mitzvah despite her daughter's severe medical and developmental needs at home.
- Being included in ceremonies, photos, prayers, and dancing gave her a respite that didn't erase grief but eased it.
Inclusion Shifts Identity
- Inclusion by friends allowed Emma to feel their presence mattered beyond her caregiving role.
- Being woven into someone else's celebration shifted her from an individual story to a shared community experience.
Show Up And Include Intentionally
- Invite and include friends in small and large events even when they're struggling to show you they matter.
- Take photos and participate to create shared memories that signal 'we want to remember you.'