When we embrace the shared realities of living—loss, grief, and death—we become more present to the beauty and exquisiteness of our lives. Rather than turning us away from life, this work invites us more deeply into it.

In this two-day writing circle, we explore how becoming more comfortable with death and dying can help us live with greater clarity, gratitude, and forgiveness.

We write in response to prompts help us name the grief we carry and the fears we hold. We reflect on the insights of writers, poets, philosophers, and spiritual teachers who have thought deeply about mortality. And we make space for optional sharing and conversation throughout.

The intention is simple and grounded: to know ourselves, to love better, and to live fully.

No writing experience is needed or expected. Our purpose is not to create art but to use writing as a practical tool for inner exploration and connection. All that’s needed is an open heart and willingness to engage with the moving pen and the subjects of living and dying.

This circle is for anyone who…

…wants to meet life with an open heart.
…is carrying a recent loss or long-held grief.
…hopes to become more present for those who are dying—and for those who are living.
…longs to explore what matters most.

“Whatever fears I might have carried into Nancy’s circle, her warmth and wisdom dissolved them early on. The prompts and teachings led me to discoveries about how I want to live. With grace, Nancy leads the way by making the uncomfortable comfortable.”
—Marilyn Weisenberg, Portland, OR

ABOUT NANCY LINNON

Nancy has been teaching writing and facilitating groups for almost thirty years. She has published in several literary journals and magazines and began her career as a journalist for U.S. News & World Report. She holds a master’s from Brown University and an MFA from Antioch University.

She began her studies to be an end-of-life doula—someone who accompanies a person on their journey with death—in Ireland. She is certified by the International Association of End-of-Life Doulas (INELDA).

Many people have remarked that her work as an end-of-life doula is a departure from teaching writing, but she sees an organic throughline.

Death is a part of life waiting to be known—as are the multitude of stories within us.