Donna Morrissey and her siblings were reminiscing over drinks one evening when she had an epiphany. Growing up in Newfoundland, Morrissey and her sisters primarily stayed indoors with their mother, while her brothers engaged in outdoor activities with their father. This familial divide persisted into adulthood, leading to Morrissey realizing there were aspects of her father’s character that she had never known.
This revelation inspired Morrissey’s latest book, “Tell It to the Water: Five Siblings Tell of Their Father’s Grief and His Struggle Back to Hope.” While the focus is on her father’s mourning for his late wife’s cancer-related death, the narrative also delves into other tragic events, such as the loss of Morrissey’s brother, Ford, in a workplace accident four decades ago.
Reflecting on the process, Morrissey, who splits her time between Halifax and Newfoundland, shared that hearing her siblings recount their untold stories was a poignant experience. Unlike her fictional works, delving into her family’s memoir stirred deep emotions within her, even bringing her to tears at times.
The book is structured with chapters narrated from the perspectives of Morrissey and her siblings, each chapter clearly indicating the viewpoint. Bringing these stories to life involved numerous discussions among the siblings, delving into the meaning behind certain passages and capturing the emotions of pivotal moments.
While tensions occasionally arose during these conversations, Morrissey highlighted that any disagreements were short-lived among siblings who have a history of bickering but swiftly reconcile. Despite their close bond, the book has further cemented the connection among Morrissey and her siblings.
Psychologist Dr. Simon Sherry of Crux Psychology in Halifax discussed grief in a broader context, emphasizing the enduring emotional ties that persist even after losing a loved one. He noted that as people mature, their perspectives on deceased loved ones may evolve, maintaining a continuous albeit transformed relationship.
Looking ahead, Morrissey aspires for her book to prompt readers to reflect on their own familial connections and provide a blueprint for those seeking to document their family’s history. With time, she and her siblings have grown closer, cherishing each other amidst the ongoing impact of their shared experiences.
The memoir serves as a testament to resilience, fostering a deeper appreciation for family bonds and the evolving nature of personal narratives.