Emma-Fleur - Hotel Receptionist

TRANSITIONS

If I had to choose one word to represent my experience during the global pandemic it would be transition.

On the weekend before lock down I packed up all my worldly goods and left my alcoholic partner to start a new chapter in my life. In a matter of 48 hours I had separated from my partner of 7 years, I moved home and the hotel where I work closed its doors. For the first time in nearly 30 years after being a care giver in various different forms I was living by myself. A mixture of excitement, relief, uncertainty and loneliness washed through me. What on earth was happening and how would I, my family and friends (all located in different parts of the country) fare in all of this? Three weeks later and I would also be grieving the loss of my father. Unable to be with loved ones at a time when family naturally want to be there to say good bye to the person that has died and to physically be there to support each other has been and continues to be incredibly difficult and challenging. I look forward to a time when we can come together to grieve and celebrate our father and our family.

Considering all of the transitions that have taken place in the past few months I am extremely lucky for I have my physical and mental health intact, I have financial support from the furlough scheme to keep a roof over my head, food on the table and electricity to keep me warm and a fantastic network of friends. I am also incredibly blessed as nature and my spirituality have been a wonderful friend to me in times when grief and loneliness have often visited my side. As I sit writing my story I clearly see what really matters to me and appreciate each and every moment, for life is a very special gift. I do not know what the future holds but I do know that it is up to me how I carry myself through this life. I will always try my best to be kind, helpful and supportive to other people and this wonderful planet that we call home.

- Emma-Fleur Grof

Receptionist at Coul House Hotel, Contin, Scottish Highlands