After a loved one dies we find different ways to continue an enduring connection with them. We adapt our new life stories to include this loss; we feel the feelings, honor the struggle, start to reassemble the broken pieces of our lives, and look to find meaning in the loss.
I mention stories. One powerful way to keep the connection alive is by storytelling and story-catching.
As you tell stories of your loved one(s) you share love & loss; life & celebrations; joy & pain; hopes fulfilled & dreams lost. Telling these stories can also help us process something that doesn’t make sense.
We each have treasure chests (our hearts) full of jewels (our stories). When we are grieving we need to take these jewels out frequently, hold them to a light and enjoy the beauty each one holds.
Hearing stories about death is difficult. We need people who are willing to listen to our stories of love and loss (sometimes over and over), and to know that our stories are truly heard and deeply respected. These people are story catchers. They give the gift of holding space with those who are grieving.
Please know you’re not alone on your grief journey. I’m here to be a story catcher if needed.
Hugs,
Susan
