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"The stories we live and tell provide coherence and meaning and orient our sense of purpose" - Sharon Daloz Parks

Welcome to the Stories of Hope, where we share experiences and thoughts surrounding the pandemic, the psychological and emotional stress many of us faced over the past few months, and how we converted it into hope and opportunity for ourselves and those close to us. We highlight the challenges that manifest across different social contexts and the solutions created by local communities to enhance social solidarity. These narratives are motivating and inspirational and are examples of the way to live the new normal. For those still trying to navigate through tough times, this is also a platform to seek advice and connect with the community.

We invite everyone to share your experiences during the pandemic, dreams and hopes for the future, as well as the challenge of decoding the new normal. As we move into the recovery phase, there are many new opportunities waiting for us. Please share how you are seizing these opportunities to grow and change. Your messages or reflections can be in the form of short write-ups of your experiences or longer reflections, in which you tell the story of something special that you have done, experienced, or thought about that you wish to share with others. We will respect your choice if you want to post anonymous content… Come, join the Stories of Hope to take your message to the world.

Stories of Hope

 
Meet Kelsey Gill, who graduated from StFX in May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition with Honours. She is currently working as a dietetic intern at the University, pursuing her RD designation. The past year has been tough as not all of her plans materialized. But with her positive attitude, Kelsey made best use of the opportunities available and even created many new ones for herself. READ MORE

 
It is the virus of uncertainty and fear that hit us last year around this time, changing our lives, perhaps forever. I have heard many people say that we should just erase the past year from the diary of our life.  We do not know if we will ever be able to go back to the "before [Covid-19] world," says Preet Banga, as she tries to find hope in the new normal. READ MORE

 
The past year has taught me that things do not always work out the way you have planned them and adjusting yourself to changes is what life is all about. Life isn’t always about perfection. Sometimes you have to slow down and take time to explore what’s happening around you, says Ravneet Mehtot, who moved from Ontario to Antigonish last year. READ MORE

 
Tania Tesson, the name behind "Naturally Me" masks, believes that she can contribute to social change through fashion. Tania says she created "Naturally Me" to have everyone experience another culture with the confidence of knowing about it. READ MORE

 
Sanjidha Ganeshan says the pandemic taught her that there is a positive side to most events. Finding it makes life better. READ MORE

Frequently Asked Questions
Minding the Mind

This section answers some of the frequently answered questions about mental health during these stressful times. We have the answers for you. In case you do not find an answer here, please write to our experts at storiesofhopestfx@gmail.com

Mental Health Resources
Life Line

This section provides details of resources available both online and in antigonish for seeking advice and psychological help.

Mutual Aid Network
Mutual Aid Network

As the university opens in fall, we are here to welcome you and provide any help that you may need settling into your routine. Email storiesofhopestfx@gmail.com, with "Mutual Aid Network" in the subject line for any help.