Stella Reddy's Story of Hope

Reading Time: 6 minutes

My Emotional Rollercoaster Rides

Let’s be honest — some weeks just feel like a mix of sunshine and storm clouds. This one was definitely an emotional ride for me, with family on my mind and Newfoundland alive with events, good and bad.

Family Visit: Old Ties, New Nerves

Emotionally, I’m holding steady, but with a familiar swirl of anticipation. I’m preparing to be around family I haven’t seen in years — some, I’ll admit, I haven’t even spoken to in ages. That’s scary! I’ve spent this past week gently reminding myself of the good things: childhood laughter, Sunday suppers, those little moments that made us family. That helps.

Mindfulness has become my anchor and emotional self-awareness, my sail. I’ve worked on these for years, and now, as I enter this trip, they’re guiding me. Yes, I’m nervous — but excited too. Growth happens when we show up, even with shaky hands. I will show up!

I’m thinking about my Dad and Step-Mom, wandering the West Coast of Newfoundland right now. The timing didn’t work for me to join them, but I hope their journey is unforgettable. Safe travels, I’m cheering for you both from here! I am sure Dad will regale me with his adventures when he gets home!

Good News, Bad News: Newfoundland’s Strength

I’ve been glued to the news, swinging between relief and worry. The forest fires sweeping through Newfoundland & Labrador have weighed heavily on my heart. So many have lost so much, and even the forests themselves seem part of our family. Still, what stands out — and always will, here in NL — is the way people rally together. Our government, our communities, are always looking out for each other. That is Newfoundland’s heartbeat. My heart aches for those affected, but I know help and hope are on the way.

Canada Games Finale: Bittersweet Celebrations

The Canada Games end soon in Newfoundland! I watched a bunch of games online, dreaming for a second about braving the crowds for the closing ceremony on Sunday. But… reality check. Those crowds are too much for me now — my balance isn’t what it used to be, and the anxiety about jostling is real. So I’ll settle in to watch it all on NTV+ and cheer on the athletes. Sometimes celebrating from your own couch is just right — safe, peaceful, close to heart.

Anniversary Vibes: Simple Joys

Today marks my wedding anniversary. No big plans this year; Hubby’s working, so it’s takeout and a cozy evening for us. Tomorrow? Grocery run! Real life doesn’t stop for romance, does it? We always make time for romance, though! We’re planning a little fishing trip on Sunday, weather willing. It might be the most low-key anniversary yet — and honestly, I’m content. It’s not about fancy celebrations but about showing up for each other, and I’m grateful for every shared moment. Always live in the moment!

Mental Health Update: Progress and Boundaries

Truth time — I’ve been feeling pretty good, but spending more time by myself. I finally let go of the stress over that old stellareddy.com domain (yes, the cyberquatter still wants $3495 USD for it — good luck!). I reported it to the registrar, so fingers crossed. What matters most is that the malicious content is gone, and nobody else can add more. That’s a big weight off my shoulders. I can wait for the domain to come free; I have patience.

Crowds have become a bit daunting. After being nearly knocked over a few times at the George Street Festival (Blue Rodeo and Kellie Loder rocked!), I realized how fragile my balance is. Now, anytime I even think about crowds, a bit of anxiety surfaces. Protecting my mental and physical peace is my new priority, and that means saying “no” to crowds for now.

I spend a lot of time out exploring Nature, taking in scenic vistas. It keeps me grounded. I spend time with family members and even talk to new people I come across on my treks. I walk the Pedestrian Mall on Water St. and take in some of the pop-up shows and exhibits. It was fascinating to watch the aerobatics team last week! I live a very low-pressure life, and I like it that way. I have been feeling very at peace with my life…

Canada/US Relations: Strengthening Beyond Tariffs

Lately, the headlines have been full of ups and downs in the Canada/US relationship. With new tariffs introduced by the US (35%), Canada isn’t backing down — we’re rallying with resilience and strategy. Our government has responded with measures to protect key industries and support affected communities. Our economy has remained strong.

But what strikes me most is how Canada is turning challenge into opportunity. We’re actively diversifying our trade, expanding agreements with countries in Europe, Asia, and South America. From new deals with the EU to growing partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region, Canada is opening doors and building bridges worldwide. This means more security for our economy and more chances for Canadian businesses and workers to thrive, no matter what changes come from south of the border.

It’s inspiring to see this kind of adaptability — proof that we can stand strong and evolve together. Canada’s spirit of collaboration and looking outward truly shines in moments like these. I am proud to be a Canadian.

The US and the World: Signs of Growing Isolation

Watching global news lately, I can’t help but notice a shift in how the United States is relating to the rest of the world. Once seen as the unshakable leader on the world stage, the US seems to be pulling back in ways that suggest growing isolation. The US is in turmoil these days, from what I see.

The current President’s pattern of behaviour feels all too familiar to me, and I won’t pretend it hasn’t been triggering at times. Some of the attitudes and actions he displays echo my experience with toxicity that has caused me emotional pain and distress. But despite those painful triggers, I choose to face it head-on. I refuse to let fear or anxiety silence me or control my reactions. I am grateful I don’t live in the US, but I do feel for the Americans. They are going to have a really hard time with this Administration.

Listening and watching his actions on the news, of Trump—or anyone with that kind of toxic energy—is incredibly challenging. His words and actions can be harmful, divisive, and exhausting to witness. Yet in recognizing that toxicity, I also recognize my own strength in setting boundaries and protecting my mental and emotional well-being. It’s not easy, but confronting it with honesty and courage is part of my healing journey. I take their comments on Canada becoming the 51st State in stride, as I know it will never happen.

This shift is especially visible amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where the US role has been crucial but also complicated. While providing support, the US has faced criticism and challenges that reflect its changing stance on global engagement. The visit to Alaska with Putin from Russia was a disaster, in my opinion. Meanwhile, decisions to withdraw from certain international agreements and escalate trade disputes signal a focus inward rather than building longstanding partnerships.

This inward turn has strained alliances and left many countries, including those watching the conflict in Ukraine, searching for new ways to collaborate beyond American influence. Meanwhile, other nations—including Canada—are stepping up to fill the gap by forging stronger ties, diversifying trade, and investing in multilateral cooperation to address global issues. Canada stands with Ukraine. Ukrainians deserve peace.

One of the most heartbreaking aspects of this toxic environment is the flood of videos circulating on social media showing people being arrested on the streets by masked men. These are not isolated incidents; they reveal a troubling pattern of individuals being forcibly taken away, sometimes disappearing without clear explanation or due process. Watching these scenes unfold is deeply unsettling and painful. It brings to light a harsh reality for many who face oppression and injustice. They say that Trump is heading into authoritarianism, and I can understand why they believe that.

It feels like the global community is moving toward a more multipolar world where influence and leadership are shared rather than dominated by one. The US is no longer the “top” Country of the World that other Nations can depend on! Isolation may bring short-term security, but long-term success will come from connection and cooperation. The world is watching the chaos—and many are ready to build bridges beyond traditional borders, united in the face of challenges like Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty.

It is scary to watch what is happening all over the world, but I have faith in humanity. In the meantime, I live in gratitude that I am where I am, not just geographically but also emotionally.

Thank you for reading and sharing this journey with me. I’m real, I’m healing, and every step forward — even the wobbly ones — counts. If you’re navigating your own emotional rollercoaster, hang in there. You’re stronger than you think, and you’re never alone