Growth In Loss: Loss Can Trigger Loss, But It Doesn’t Have To

Growth In Loss: Loss Can Trigger Loss, But It Doesn’t Have To

“Loss triggers loss. If you don't learn the art of helpful grieving now, future losses will compound - and continue to derail you.” Rebuild, week 6 Remembering when When it comes to child loss, my first experience came at 20 weeks of pregnancy. I was pregnant with my 3rdchild and went…
Recognize What Affects Your Grief

Do You Have The Kind Of Support System You Need?

A significant aspect of how we process grief is what kind of support system we have in our lives. Our support system is affected by different aspects that may include stage of life, personality, and community. Stage of Life When we are young, parents are a natural part of a child’s support system. Parents…
Avoiding Road Rage and Embracing Gapers

Grieving Into The Holidays – Ragers and Gapers

Part Two As you drive through the holidays, you not only face speedbumps (things you can anticipate may be headed your way) and potholes (things you don’t see coming) but there are other drivers on the road. Every driver you pass is on a journey as well. Each can potentially…
Grief Speedbumps and Potholes

Grieving Into The Holidays – Speedbumps and Potholes

Part One The holidays are a complicated part of life in the midst of grief. Holiday festivities and holiday grief don’t usually mix well. Families gathering around a Christmas tree and someone missing are awkward. What are some tips to help “drive through the holidays” with as minor damage as…
Grieve In Helpful Ways

Gifts in the Midst of Grief – Part Two

I am not sure I set out to find "gifts in the midst of grief." I just wanted to survive the brokenness I felt. Yet, I did find a second gift. Grieve in Helpful Ways When Bryan died, I only knew ONE person who had lost a child, Joan. She lived in…
Grief Isn’t A Disease To Be Cured

Grief Isn’t A Disease To Be Cured

Grief is complicated. We search for answers, but the most beneficial things that can occur aren't the answers but those we meet along our search. When Bryan died, I knew ONE PERSON who had lost a child, Joan. I met Joan five years before as I became involved with a…
Paradox of Mourning – Things you never expect

Paradox of Mourning – Things you never expect

Tomorrow would be my son Bryan's 22nd birthday on the 22nd. His "golden birthday." That was a new term for me. A golden birthday is a birthday year when you turn the age that corresponds to the day of the month of your birthday. Bryan only lived to be 16,…