Adult memoir; short story collection; fiction;

The emotionally authentic stories in “Saying Good-bye is Easy: A Life is Short Stories” relate the experiences of a young woman from a Canadian military family who sets out to find her place in the world in the 1960s. Along the way, she discovers patterns of helplessness that trap her in unhappiness until she unearths self-empowerment and growth by reframing her life in writing. The stories we tell ourselves and others shape our lives and what we believe about the world. Recreating events from the past gives us meaning and invites forgiveness and hope into our hearts.

This book may be of interest to fellow authors, readers and kindred spirits who found inspiration for their stories with Saga Seminars lead by Eunice Scarfe a few years ago. The book is directed towards the thousands of Canadian military children born in the Baby Boomer era who are now retiring and have stories to tell of growing up in a culture primed for war. Their voices need to be heard and affirmed. My intention with the book is to link contemporary military brats and civilians, create understanding and empathy between them, and bring awareness to the unacknowledged challenges and strengths of military children. This fictional narrative is a powerful example of the writing journey as a path to wholeness and healing.

Comments about the book from readers of the original version:

Reader m.b. says, “This book will change your outlook on your life and your life’s path.”

Reader s.k. says, “This book is a powerful reminder of the sacrifice service men and women and their families make, bringing poignant significance to the term “co-service.”

This book may be a difficult read for some and is not suitable for all ages. Scenes of war, foul language (appropriate to characters and event) and personal trauma are relevant to the overall book and are emotionally authentic and based on true events. .