At income-partners.net, we, as content creators, constantly seek valuable resources for professional growth and personal enrichment. In our role as partner advocates, we understand the importance of holistic well-being. That’s why “What We’re Reading Now,” a recurring feature on our platform, aims to share content that resonates with these values. Recently, Allison from Allison Partners discovered Shelby Marie Edwards’ Grieving 101 Mini Series and found it to be a source of both profound wisdom and unexpected laughter, a testament to the enriching relationships found in mentorship. This series offers valuable insights into navigating grief, a universal experience that touches all aspects of life, including professional environments.
Mentoring is deeply valued at Allison Partners. It’s recognized as a cornerstone of growth, both for the mentor and the mentee. Allison’s own life has been significantly shaped by mentors, and she emphasizes the reciprocal nature of these relationships. This philosophy—that mentoring is a two-way street—is vividly illustrated in her connection with her newest mentee, Shelby Marie Edwards. The exchange is not just about guidance flowing in one direction; it’s a dynamic partnership where both individuals gain and learn.
Let us introduce you to Shelby Marie Edwards, a name that is becoming increasingly significant in conversations around grief and resilience. Shelby’s connections run deep within Allison’s community, linked to Dr. Greer Dawson Wilson, a highly influential mentor in Allison’s life. Shelby’s mother, Holly Edwards, was also a respected figure in Charlottesville. Her father, Pastor Ken Edwards, is admired for his community engagement and positive spirit. Interestingly, Allison and Shelby’s paths crossed through Live Arts, their local community theater, highlighting the unexpected ways valuable relationships can form, beyond pre-existing family connections. Shelby’s role as Development Coordinator at Live Arts provided the initial context for their mentorship, which has since blossomed into a learning experience for both. As Allison supports Shelby in her professional development, Shelby, in turn, offers Allison profound insights into the multifaceted experience of grief.
Shelby’s personal journey with grief is deeply impactful. Her mother, Holly Edwards, passed away on January 7, 2017. Losing a parent is a profound experience at any age, but Shelby’s perspective, shared in her Grieving 101 Mini Series, offers unique wisdom, particularly on the developmental impact of early loss. While acknowledging that comparing grief is unhelpful and loss at any age is painful, Shelby emphasizes the distinct challenges of losing a parent at a younger age. Holly Edwards was not only a beloved mother but also a champion for social justice and equity in her community. Her impact extended beyond her immediate circle, and many individuals, even those who didn’t know Shelby before her mother’s passing, have shared stories of Holly’s influence. Charlottesville’s grappling with the events of August 2017, alongside broader national conversations about racial injustice, has amplified Holly’s legacy. Live Arts, in its statement of solidarity, reflects on these issues, further underscoring the relevance of Holly’s work and Shelby’s ongoing engagement with themes of grief and resilience.
Shelby has channeled her experiences and insights into a powerful medium: her YouTube channel, Shelby Marie Artiste. In the past month, she has released five videos as part of her Grieving 101 Mini Series. These short videos showcase Shelby’s talent for writing and theater, combined with her insightful perspective and disarming wit. Even brief conversations with Shelby leave Allison both laughing and reflecting, a testament to Shelby’s ability to connect and impart wisdom. Her videos are no different, offering accessible and relatable content on navigating grief.
While video #4 in the series is specifically targeted towards millennials, Allison notes that the advice within it resonates broadly, offering valuable strategies for anyone experiencing grief, regardless of age. Video #5, in particular, provides insights that Allison anticipates will be helpful in dealing with the eventual loss of her own parents, demonstrating the universality of Shelby’s wisdom. Perhaps most powerfully, video #2 reminds viewers that when coping with overwhelming grief, it’s okay to focus on surviving “breath by breath,” a poignant and practical piece of advice for anyone facing immense challenges.
Allison Partners encourages you to explore Shelby Marie Edwards’s insightful content. You can connect with Shelby through her website and Instagram, and most importantly, subscribe to her YouTube channel, Shelby Marie Artiste. Shelby aims to release new content every other Saturday, and we at income-partners.net, along with Allison Partners, are eager to see and share the continued wisdom she offers.
