In our January Dialogue Book Club, we explored grief, compassion, and inner healing through the true story of Penguin Bloom.

Through Sam’s journey after a life-altering accident, we reflected on the stages of grief – denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance- and how healing begins when we allow ourselves to sit with pain, rather than resist it.

Guided by Dr. Gabor Maté’s 5 Levels of Compassion, we explored how wounds turn into wisdom when we meet our suffering with curiosity, honesty, and self-compassion.

We then turned to Clarissa Pinkola Estés’ poem “Abre La Puerta (Open the Door)”, which reminds us that every wound, loss, and hardship is a doorway to personal growth — and that those who open these doors with patience, courage, and compassion are often entrusted with the ability to help others.

In the film, our hero Sam loses not only her physical mobility, but also her sense of identity. Her loss becomes a door , a threshold into a new way of being.

And her key… is an unexpected bond with a bird.

As Sam learns to care for this wounded creature, she slowly reconnects with herself, discovering how compassion opens what once felt closed forever.

Inspired by this shared reading and viewing experience, we asked each other:

What locked doors have your wounds or grief created?

And what key are you using to open them?

As a symbol of this reflection, each participant received a small key, a reminder of their own inner wisdom.

Despite the freezing cold, our participants gathered to watch, read, reflect, and discuss together, reminding us that transformation can emerge through shared stories, films, and meaningful conversation.

Grateful for this circle, these stories, and the courage to open our doors together.

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In celebration, we’ve featured a heartfelt quote by M. Fethullah Gülen:

“A mother is not only the one who raised us, but the first teacher who planted mercy in our hearts and peace in our souls.”

This day is a beautiful reminder that love begins at home—and that mothers shape the world through every gentle word, every sacrifice, and every act of care.

At GRFS, we believe that love is a verb—it lives in action, grows in service, and blossoms in the everyday moments we share.

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Special thanks to Green Party MPP Aislinn Clancy and Waterloo Region Councillor Chantal Huinink for gracing the evening with their presence. Your support and participation added immense value to this event!

Following the screening, our panelists shared personal experiences with the Hizmet Movement, leaving the audience with a deeper understanding and appreciation for its values. It was truly an inspiring night that brought the community closer.

Let’s keep the spirit alive because Love is a Verb!

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Experience “Love is a Verb,” a powerful 55-minute documentary that highlights a global movement promoting unity, compassion, love and service. ? Dive into the story of the Hizmet movement and its transformative impact on communities worldwide.

? Event Highlights:
• Screening of the award-winning film
• ⁠Panel discussion with community members
• ⁠Hosted by Leon Kehl (Member of GRFS Board of Directors)

? Reserve Your Free Ticket Today: https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/love-is-a-verb

Email us at: info@grfsociety.ca

Let’s come together to celebrate love in action. We can’t wait to see you there!

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